Pineapple stuffing—two words that hold the promise of delightful flavors and fascinating culinary adventures. When I first stumbled upon this dish, I thought to myself, “Can stuffing really be sweet?” Oh, but can it!
You see, pineapple stuffing brings together the best of both worlds: a savory base with a splash of tropical sweetness. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, whether you’re grilling chicken, serving up ham, or whipping up a quick vegetarian feast.
Want to be the star of the next potluck? Serve up pineapple stuffing alongside a perfectly roasted chicken or a glazed ham, and watch as your friends and family go back for seconds—maybe even thirds. You can even complement it with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw. The varied texture and flavors will have everyone raving.
What is Pineapple Stuffing?
Pineapple stuffing is a baked side dish that traditionally combines bread, eggs, sugar, and, of course, crushed pineapple. It results in a sweet, custardy consistency with crispy edges. This dish is not confined to the holiday table; it truly shines year-round.
Imagine warm, golden cubes of bread soaking up the luscious juices of pineapple, mingling with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. It’s a delightful contrast that makes pineapple stuffing a standout dish that can easily take center stage at any meal.
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Why This Recipe Works
Let me share four compelling reasons why this pineapple stuffing recipe is a winner.
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of the pineapple balances perfectly with the rich butter and subtle notes of vanilla. This combination creates an explosion of taste that’s hard to resist.
2. Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients sitting around your kitchen—bread, eggs, butter, sugar, and pineapple. You’ll need minimal effort for maximum payoff.
3. Easy Preparation: Follow my straightforward steps, and you’ll find that making pineapple stuffing is a breeze. It’s ideal for those bustling weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
4. Versatility: This stuffing can be served with a variety of main courses. Whether it’s savory or sweet, pineapple stuffing adapts. You’re not locked into one culinary theme.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Pineapple Stuffing
Here’s the shopping list you’ll need for this delectable dish:
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 5 slices of white sandwich bread, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well-drained
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
These ingredients combine into something magical.
How to Make Pineapple Stuffing
Let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your pineapple stuffing.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before jumping into mixing and baking, it’s essential to prep! Start by cutting the bread into small cubes. This is a serious time-saver later on. Pop your butter in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it, but don’t melt it—nobody wants pancake-like stuffing.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, crack open those eggs and whisk them. Add the sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix this concoction until it becomes a smooth blend. Can you smell that? Yum!
Step 3: Add the Pineapple
Next, drain that can of crushed pineapple well. This is crucial if you don’t want a soggy mess later. Add the drained pineapple to your egg mixture. Fold it in gently; you don’t want to break down those lovely pineapple chunks.
Step 4: Combine with Bread
Now for the fun part—mixing! Gradually fold in your cubed bread into the pineapple-egg mixture. Make sure every piece of bread gets a little loving, bathing in that sweet mixture.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spread it evenly, and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top if desired. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden and set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes. Trust me, you’ll want to resist the urge to dive right in; those few minutes will help set the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful smiles upon their faces!
Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Stuffing
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread works best. It absorbs the mixture better, giving you a fantastic texture.
- Don’t Skip the Draining: Ensure your pineapple is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try nutmeg, or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Size Matters: Consider the size of your crowd. You can easily double the recipe.
- Let it Rest: Allow the stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps firm it up.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of pineapple stuffing generally contains:
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g
This recipe makes about 8 servings, depending on your crowd size or how many people choose to come back for seconds!
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers (doubtful, but let’s be optimistic!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can warm them up in the microwave or enjoy them cold the next day. Pineapple stuffing is surprisingly delightful at breakfast—talk about a two-for-one special!
Recommended Side Dishes for Pineapple Stuffing
Pineapple stuffing shines on its own, but pairing it with the right sides enhances the entire meal. Here are some ideas:
1. Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast with a hint of lemon or herbs is a perfect match. The savory flavors pair well with the sweetness of the stuffing.
2. Glazed Ham: The sweet notes in glazed ham complement the stuffing beautifully. The contrast between savory and sweet keeps your taste buds interested.
3. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tart vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the stuffing. It adds a refreshing crunch that serves as a nice counterpoint.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic can pair nicely. They balance out the sweetness and add depth to your meal.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Sometimes life throws us a curveball, and we don’t have everything on hand. Here’s what you can swap out:
1. Bread: Use whole grain or gluten-free bread if you prefer healthier options or have dietary restrictions.
2. Eggs: For a vegan alternative, use flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to achieve that binding effect.
3. Pineapple: If fresh pineapple isn’t available, crushed mango or apricot can deliver a similar sweetness.
4. Sugar: For a healthier alternative, try using honey or maple syrup. Adjust the amount since these liquid sweeteners can change the dish’s consistency.
Conclusion
Pineapple stuffing is more than just a dish; it’s an experience, an adventure for your palate. Its ability to blend sweetness with savory notes makes it a versatile addition to nearly any meal. With its simple ingredients and straightforward methodology, it’s perfect for busy cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create something delightful. Trust me, once you serve pineapple stuffing, it’ll be the dish your guests ask for time and again. Now, what’s stopping you? Dive in and indulge in this tasty creation today!
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Pineapple Stuffing – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
Pineapple stuffing—two words that hold the promise of delightful flavors and fascinating culinary adventures. When I first stumbled upon this dish, I thought to myself, “Can stuffing really be sweet?” Oh, but can it!
You see, pineapple stuffing brings together the best of both worlds: a savory base with a splash of tropical sweetness. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, whether you’re grilling chicken, serving up ham, or whipping up a quick vegetarian feast.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your pineapple stuffing.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
-
Before jumping into mixing and baking, it’s essential to prep! Start by cutting the bread into small cubes. This is a serious time-saver later on. Pop your butter in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it, but don't melt it—nobody wants pancake-like stuffing.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
-
In a large bowl, crack open those eggs and whisk them. Add the sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix this concoction until it becomes a smooth blend. Can you smell that? Yum!
Step 3: Add the Pineapple
-
Next, drain that can of crushed pineapple well. This is crucial if you don’t want a soggy mess later. Add the drained pineapple to your egg mixture. Fold it in gently; you don’t want to break down those lovely pineapple chunks.
Step 4: Combine with Bread
-
Now for the fun part—mixing! Gradually fold in your cubed bread into the pineapple-egg mixture. Make sure every piece of bread gets a little loving, bathing in that sweet mixture.
Step 5: Bake
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spread it evenly, and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top if desired. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden and set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
-
Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes. Trust me, you’ll want to resist the urge to dive right in; those few minutes will help set the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful smiles upon their faces!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Sugars 15g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread works best. It absorbs the mixture better, giving you a fantastic texture.
- Don’t Skip the Draining: Ensure your pineapple is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try nutmeg, or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Size Matters: Consider the size of your crowd. You can easily double the recipe.
Let it Rest: Allow the stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps firm it up.
