Oh, let me tell you about Paula Deen’s pineapple casserole! Every time I make it, I’m flooded with memories of family gatherings and potlucks where this dish took center stage. There’s something so comforting about the blend of sweet, juicy pineapple and the savory, cheesy goodness that just wraps around you like a warm hug. It’s a dish that feels like home, you know? My grandmother used to whip it up for holidays, and I can still picture her in the kitchen, humming a soft tune as she mixed everything together. This casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a reminder of love and laughter shared around the table. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delightful addition to any meal. Trust me, Paula Deen’s pineapple casserole is a must-try for anyone looking to bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort to their dining experience!
Ingredients List
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Prepare Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole bake evenly throughout. You don’t want to rush this step, trust me! While that oven is warming up, you can get all the other prep work done.
Mix the Pineapple and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add your drained crushed pineapple. It’s really important to drain it well—too much moisture can make the casserole soggy. Now, sprinkle in the sugar and give it a good stir. You want everything to be mixed nicely, so those sweet flavors can really shine through. Can you smell that? Yum!
Combine Remaining Ingredients
Next, let’s add in the flour and cheese. Sprinkle the flour over the pineapple mixture, and then toss in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently fold everything together. You’re aiming for a nice, cohesive mixture where the cheese is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens, folks!
Prepare the Cracker Topping
Now, grab another bowl for the topping. Combine the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter. You want to mix it until all the cracker crumbs are nicely coated with the butter. This topping will add that delightful crunch we love! It should have a crumbly texture that you can sprinkle over the pineapple mixture.
Bake Until Golden Brown
Pour that beautiful pineapple mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and bubbly! Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve up. Enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen—it’s going to be hard to wait!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
While I love sharing delicious recipes like this Paula Deen pineapple casserole, it’s important to note that the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, the values I mention here are typical estimates and not precise. If you’re keeping an eye on your nutrition, I recommend calculating the values based on your exact ingredients. Enjoy this comforting dish, but always feel free to modify it to fit your dietary needs and preferences!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just about 50 minutes!
- Comforting flavors that combine sweet and savory, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
- Easily customizable to suit dietary needs; you can swap out sugar for alternatives or use gluten-free crackers.
- A family-friendly dish that everyone will enjoy, bringing smiles around the dinner table.
Tips for Success
Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your Paula Deen pineapple casserole turns out perfectly every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Make sure to drain your crushed pineapple thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy casserole, and nobody wants that! You can even press it gently with a paper towel to remove any extra juice.
- Mix Gently: When combining the ingredients, be sure to fold them together gently. This helps keep the casserole light and fluffy. You want to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture.
- Adjust for Dietary Needs: If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit. For a gluten-free version, simply swap in gluten-free crackers. Your casserole will still be delicious!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 30-minute mark. You want it bubbly and golden brown, but be careful not to overbake!
- Let it Cool: After baking, let your casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows it to set up nicely, making it easier to scoop and serve. Plus, it helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
- Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. You can also experiment with different types of cheese if you’re feeling adventurous—like a mix of sharp and mild cheddar!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to making a fabulous pineapple casserole that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up a bit with your Paula Deen pineapple casserole, you’re in for a treat! There are so many fun ways to customize this comforting dish to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, consider mixing in some chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
- Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is a classic, don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese choices. Try using Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flair to the dish!
- Gluten-Free Options: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, simply substitute the butter crackers with your favorite gluten-free crackers. There are so many tasty options available now that you won’t miss a beat!
- Fruit Add-ins: If you want to enhance the fruity flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped maraschino cherries or even some diced peaches. They’ll add a pop of color and extra sweetness that’s just divine!
- Spice it Up: For a little warmth, sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices can elevate the flavors and give your casserole a cozy, comforting touch.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own signature version of this classic dish. Cooking is all about having fun and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious Paula Deen pineapple casserole, you might find yourself with some leftovers—lucky you! This dish stores beautifully, so let’s make sure you keep it fresh and tasty for your next meal.
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep the casserole moist and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
When stored properly, your pineapple casserole will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Just remember to label your container with the date, so you know when it was made!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you have a couple of great options. For the best texture, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish if it’s not already in one. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too much. Heat it for about 15–20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and bubbly again. This method helps maintain that lovely texture and flavor we all love.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual servings in the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it from drying out), and heat for about 1–2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s warmed all the way through. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might lose that scrumptious cheesy goodness!
Enjoy those leftovers, and remember, this comforting casserole tastes just as delightful the next day!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful Paula Deen pineapple casserole, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! This dish is incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of main courses. Here are some of my favorite pairings that’ll make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: This sweet and savory combination is an absolute classic! The rich, salty flavors of a honey-glazed ham pair perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple casserole. It’s a match made in heaven!
- Roasted Chicken: Whether you’re serving a simple herb-roasted chicken or a flavorful lemon garlic version, the juicy, tender chicken will balance beautifully with the casserole’s comforting flavors.
- Grilled Pork Chops: The smokiness of grilled pork chops adds a wonderful depth to your meal. Plus, the pineapple casserole adds a lovely contrast that will have everyone coming back for more!
- Vegetarian Options: If you’re looking for vegetarian sides, consider serving a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. A light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole, making for a delightful meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the casserole with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up any extra juices and provide a lovely textural contrast to the dish.
Don’t forget to consider your guests’ preferences and dietary needs when planning your meal! With these serving suggestions, you can create a memorable dining experience that everyone will love. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the wonderful company around your table!
For more delicious casserole ideas, check out this collection of comforting casseroles that are perfect for family gatherings!
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of pineapple, you can visit Healthline’s article on pineapple benefits.
Print
Paula Deen Pineapple Casserole: 5 Comforting Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting pineapple casserole recipe that combines sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple and sugar.
- Add the flour and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers and melted butter.
- Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute sugar with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie option.
- Use gluten-free crackers if you need a gluten-free version.
- For a different flavor, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Paula Deen, pineapple casserole, comfort food, easy recipe
