Canned Crushed Pineapple20 oz: This is the key to the dish’s tangy sweetness. Make sure to drain the juice but save a little for adjusting the consistency if needed.
Granulated Sugar½ cup: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the pineapple.
All-Purpose Flour3 tablespoons: Helps bind the casserole filling and create a creamy texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese1 cup: Choose a sharp cheddar for the best flavor contrast with the pineapple.
Ritz Crackers1 sleeve, about 30 crackers: Crushed into crumbs for the irresistible buttery topping.
Unsalted Butter½ cup, melted: Binds the cracker topping together and adds a rich, golden finish.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations:
Brown Sugar: Swap half the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper caramel-like flavor.
Nutmeg or Cinnamon: Sprinkle a dash into the filling for a warmspiced undertone.
Chopped Pecans: Add to the topping for extra crunch and nuttiness.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to go in, helping it bake evenly.
Prepare the Pineapple Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the cheese is evenly distributed throughout. The flour will help thicken the mixture as it bakes.
Transfer to a Baking Dish
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking. Then, pour the pineapple mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Make the Topping
Next, crush the Ritz crackers into small crumbs—this is the secret to that irresistible crunchy topping. You can use your hands, a rolling pin, or even a food processor to crush them. Once crushed, mix the crumbs with melted butter until everything is coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture.
Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The cheese should be melted, and the filling should be thick and creamy.
Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors set and makes it easier to dish out.