Cheese and Pineapple Casserole

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 6
Calories: 410
Description

A classic sweet and savory casserole made with pineapple chunks, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. This recipe is gentle, forgiving, and written for beginners, with clear cues so the casserole sets properly and scoops cleanly every time.

Ingredients
    Pineapple Base
  • 2 cans pineapple chunks, drained with juice reserved (20-ounce)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 6 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
    • Cheese Layer
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • Cracker Topping
  • 1 sleeve buttery round crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
    Prepare the Pineapple Base
  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F and lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish using a small amount of butter or nonstick spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and flour and whisk briefly to remove any lumps. Add the reserved pineapple juice and stir until smooth and glossy, then fold in the drained pineapple chunks until evenly coated (the mixture should look loose but cohesive, it will thicken as it bakes).
    2. Assemble the Base
  2. 2
    Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer using a silicone spatula. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface, making sure it covers the pineapple without being pressed down. This allows the cheese to melt gently into the filling rather than sinking.
    3. Prepare the Cracker Topping
  3. 3
    Place the crushed crackers into a medium bowl and pour the melted butter over them. Stir slowly with a spoon until all crumbs are lightly coated and slightly clumpy, with no dry patches remaining. The texture should feel damp but not greasy when pressed between your fingers.
    4. Bake and Rest
  4. 4
    Scatter the cracker topping evenly over the cheese layer and place the dish on the center rack of the oven. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling steadily. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so the filling can set and hold together when scooped.
Note

This casserole can be assembled a few hours ahead and baked just before serving, but add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crisp. Sharp cheddar works best for balance, but a milder cheese can be used for a softer flavor. If the casserole seems loose straight from the oven, allow it to rest longer, it will continue to thicken as it cools slightly.

Keywords: casserole
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