This Southern Pineapple Cheese casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for gatherings or as a unique appetizer. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the sweet pineapple and crunchy topping makes for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients:
Filling Ingredients:

 

Ingredient Quantity
Crushed Pineapple Chunks 28 oz. can, drained
Diced Pimentos 4 oz. jar
Sugar 2/3 cup
All-Purpose Flour 1/2 cup
Cream Cheese 8 oz., softened
Reserved Pineapple Juice 1/4 cup
Sharp Cheddar Cheese 2 cups, grated
Topping Ingredients:

Ingredient Quantity
Ritz Crackers 1/2 cup, crushed
Panko Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup, crushed
Unsalted Butter 1/4 cup, melted
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with softened cream cheese.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Set aside.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, diced pimentos, sugar, and all-purpose flour. Stir until well mixed.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the pineapple mixture.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the prepared cracker and breadcrumb topping over the cheese layer.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!