Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet-and-savory Southern side, look no further than Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole. This bubbling beauty brings together juicy pineapple chunks, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, creating a dish that’s equal parts nostalgic and deliciously unexpected. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, serving Sunday supper, or surprising friends at a potluck, this comforting classic draws everyone back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Don’t let its simple ingredients fool you – each bite is a bright, tangy burst of Pineapple Casserole magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole is delightfully easy thanks to a handful of pantry staples, but each ingredient plays an important role. From the sharp cheddar cheese that gives a savory bite to the sweet pineapple and the unbeatable crunch of Ritz crackers, every component comes together to create the unforgettable flavor and texture this dish is known for.

• Granulated sugar: Lends essential sweetness that balances the tangy pineapple and sharp cheese perfectly.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the filling just enough to hold everything together, so you get a luscious, spoonable casserole.
• Sharp cheddar cheese, grated: Don’t skimp here – the sharper the cheese, the better the savory contrast against the sweet pineapple.
• Canned pineapple chunks, drained: These provide juicy texture and tropical flavor; make sure they’re well-drained to prevent sogginess.
• Reserved pineapple juice (from cans): Adds moisture and an extra punch of pineapple flavor to the buttery topping.
• Ritz cracker crumbs: The buttery, slightly salty crumbs bake into the ultimate golden topping – don’t substitute with plain bread crumbs!
• Unsalted butter, melted: Brings the topping together and guarantees that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth crunch.

How to Make Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Dish

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it can heat up while you prep. Give a medium-sized casserole dish a quick greasing with either butter or nonstick spray. This helps the casserole release easily and keeps the edges deliciously crisp.

Step 2: Mix the Sugar, Flour, and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and flour until completely combined. Gradually add in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, tossing to lightly coat the strands in the dry mix. This step helps distribute the flour and sugar evenly, setting you up for a perfectly creamy filling.

Step 3: Stir in the Pineapple

Pour the well-drained pineapple chunks into your cheese mixture and fold everything together gently. You want every chunk of pineapple coated and nestled among the cheese – think gooey, cheesy pineapple in every bite!

Step 4: Fill the Casserole Dish

Transfer the pineapple-cheese mix into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so the casserole bakes up consistently, and make sure to scrape every last bit out of the bowl – you don’t want to waste a drop of that goodness.

Step 5: Combine the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the Ritz cracker crumbs, melted butter, and reserved pineapple juice. Stir with a rubber spatula until all the crumbs are moistened and beginning to clump together. This buttery, pineapple-infused crumb mixture is what sets this Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole apart!

Step 6: Top and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the casserole filling, making sure every inch is covered. Slide the dish onto the center oven rack and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly filling and a deeply golden, aromatic crust. Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavors settle and the slices come out neat.

How to Serve Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole

Garnishes

A sprig of fresh parsley or a thin slice of pineapple can add a pop of color. If you want to get fancy, try a light dusting of extra sharp cheddar on top right before serving – it’ll melt gently with the residual heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole finds its happy place alongside roasted ham, turkey, or fried chicken. Add a fresh green salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even sautéed green beans to create a well-rounded Southern feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try dishing the casserole into individual ramekins for a fun dinner party twist, or use it as a filling for baked puff pastry shells for a bite-sized, irresistible appetizer. The vibrant color and golden crust also make it a perfect addition to a brunch buffet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole can be covered and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let the casserole cool to room temperature before sealing it tightly – the flavors only get better as they mingle!

Freezing

While you can freeze this casserole, it’s best done before baking. Assemble the casserole completely (but don’t bake), wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed for that fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop individual servings in the microwave or rewarm the whole dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. If you notice the topping getting a bit soft, a quick broil can bring back that gorgeous, toasted crunch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just cut it into chunks and make sure to drain any excess juice well. However, canned pineapple often has the perfect texture and sweetness for Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole.

Is this casserole overly sweet?

Not at all! The combination of sharp cheddar and buttery crackers balances the sweetness of the pineapple and sugar, creating a uniquely harmonious sweet-and-savory flavor profile that fans of Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole adore.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap in a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour, and use gluten-free butter crackers or bread crumbs in place of Ritz crackers. Always double-check your ingredient labels to keep it 100% gluten-free.

What’s the best cheese to use for authentic flavor?

Go for a sharp cheddar cheese – it gives you the classic, tangy lift that contrasts beautifully with the pineapple. Milder cheeses won’t deliver the same flavor punch, so grab that sharp block and get shredding!

Can Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole be served cold?

It tastes best warm and bubbly, straight from the oven, but leftovers aren’t bad served chilled straight from the fridge. Many folks find the flavors even more pronounced the next day!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to embrace Southern comfort with a twist, don’t wait another day to make Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole. This enchanting blend of cheesy, buttery, and sunshiny flavors will have your friends and family swooning around the dinner table. Trust me – one bite, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection!

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