What Cheese Goes Best with Pineapple?

The best cheese to pair with pineapple is sharp cheddar . Its tangy and savory profile beautifully balances the sweet, tropical flavor of pineapple. Other great options include Parmesan for a nuttier taste, Gruyère for a creamy and slightly sweet touch, or even a mild cheese like Mozzarella if you prefer a subtler contrast. Each cheese adds a unique twist to dishes like pineapple casserole , salads, or even grilled pineapple.

Why Should You Soak Pineapple in Salt Water Before Consuming It?

Soaking pineapple in salt water helps reduce the fruit's natural acidity and can minimize the tingling or burning sensation it causes on your tongue. Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins, which can irritate sensitive areas of the mouth. A quick soak in lightly salted water neutralizes some of the enzyme's effects, making the pineapple gentler to eat without altering its flavor significantly.

Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh Pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple is a convenient substitute for fresh pineapple in most recipes. It’s pre-sweetened and soft, which makes it ideal for dishes like pineapple casserole or desserts. However, fresh pineapple has a brighter, tangier flavor that adds freshness to salads and salsas. If you’re using canned pineapple, choose varieties packed in juice rather than syrup to maintain a more natural sweetness.

Why Does Cooked Pineapple Set in Jell-O?

Cooked pineapple sets in Jell-O because the cooking process deactivates bromelain, an enzyme present in raw pineapple. Bromelain prevents gelatin from setting by breaking down its proteins. Once the pineapple is cooked, the enzyme is neutralized, allowing the gelatin to firm up properly. This is why recipes requiring gelatin, like Jell-O salads, recommend using canned or cooked pineapple instead of fresh..

Pineapple Casserole Recipe: Sweet and Savory Southern Classic

Description

This Pineapple Casserole is a sweet and savory Southern classic that’s perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a side dish for a baked ham. Made with juicy pineapple chunks, buttery Ritz crackers, and a cheesy topping, this recipe balances sweet and salty flavors in every bite. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 (20-ounce) cans pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1/4 cup of juice)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, mix the sugar and flour. Add the drained pineapple chunks and reserved 1/4 cup of pineapple juice. Stir to coat the pineapple evenly.
Transfer the pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pineapple mixture.
In another bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until well combined.
Spread the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the cheese layer to create a topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving

Notes

For a richer flavor, use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the pineapple.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist.
This casserole pairs perfectly with ham, roasted turkey, or even barbecue dishes.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8 servings
Calories: 320 per serving
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 5g