Cheese Baked Pineapple Fried Rice

The first time I made this, the kitchen smelled like comfort and sunshine at the same time. Warm rice, sweet pineapple, and melted cheese slowly baking together until everything turns golden and irresistible. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It is cozy, a little playful, and honestly one of those dishes that makes people ask for seconds before they finish their first plate.

Why This Dish Feels Like a Hug in a Bowl

There is something deeply satisfying about baked rice dishes, and this one takes it a step further. You get the savory notes from the fried rice, little pops of sweetness from pineapple, and that bubbling cheese layer on top that pulls everything together. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, especially when you scoop down and get all the layers at once.

A Little Backstory Behind the Flavors

This dish takes inspiration from Asian style fried rice and blends it with the baked casseroles many of us grew up with. Pineapple fried rice has roots in Southeast Asian cooking, where sweet and savory live happily side by side. Baking it with cheese is a modern twist, and a total game changer, that makes it feel extra comforting and perfect for sharing.

What Makes This Recipe a Keeper

Versatile: It works as a main dish or a hearty side, and you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients and leftover rice make this easy on the wallet.

Quick and Easy: Once the rice is ready, everything comes together fast.

Customizable: Add vegetables or proteins you love without changing the soul of the dish.

Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults both go crazy for the cheesy top.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it earlier and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and stays flavorful.

Pro Tips Straight From the Kitchen

Before we cook, let me share a few small tricks that make a big difference. Using day old rice helps keep the texture fluffy, and not soggy. Let the baked dish rest a few minutes before serving so the cheese sets just right. And always taste the rice before baking, seasoning at this stage is key.

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

Large skillet or wok: This is where the fried rice base comes together evenly.

Baking dish: A medium oven safe dish works best for even baking.

Mixing spoon: Use something sturdy to fold everything gently.

Oven: Preheated and ready to melt that cheese to perfection.

Ingredients You Will Need For This Dish

The magic here is how simple ingredients come together into something special.

1. Cooked jasmine rice: 3 cups, preferably cold, this keeps the grains separate.
2. Pineapple chunks: 1 cup, fresh or canned and drained, for sweet bursts.
3. Frozen peas and carrots: 1 cup, adding color and gentle sweetness.
4. Green onions: 3 stalks, sliced, for freshness.
5. Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons, for savory depth.
6. Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon, adding a nutty aroma.
7. Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons, for frying the rice.
8. Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 and a half cups, for that gooey top layer.
9. Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten, to bind and enrich the rice.
10. Salt: half a teaspoon, to balance flavors.
11. Black pepper: quarter teaspoon, for gentle warmth.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Jasmine rice: Long grain white rice works just as well.

Mozzarella cheese: Mild cheddar or a blend can be used.

Peas and carrots: Corn or diced bell peppers are great alternatives.

Spotlight on Key Ingredients

Pineapple chunks: These bring brightness and a juicy contrast that lifts the whole dish.

Mozzarella cheese: It melts smoothly and creates that irresistible baked finish.

Let’s Get Cooking Together

Now let’s dive into the fun part, step by step, so everything flows smoothly.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius and lightly oil your baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet, scramble the eggs, then add rice, peas and carrots, pineapple, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Transfer the rice mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Assemble the Dish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with green onions and serve warm.

Texture and Flavor You Can Expect

The top is bubbly and slightly crisp, while the inside stays fluffy and moist. Sweet pineapple balances the savory rice, and the cheese ties everything together in the most comforting way.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Use cold rice for the best texture.
• Drain pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
• Taste the rice before baking and adjust seasoning if needed.

What to Avoid

• Overbaking, which can dry out the rice.
• Using freshly cooked hot rice, which can turn mushy.
• Skipping the resting time after baking.

Nutrition Snapshot

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These are approximate values.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble everything up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Leftovers store well for up to three days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave. Freezing is possible, though the texture is best when fresh.

Serving Ideas

Serve it as is for a cozy meal, or pair it with a simple cucumber salad for freshness. It also works great alongside grilled vegetables.

Creative Leftover Ideas

Turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers, or pan fry portions for crispy rice cakes the next day.

Extra Little Tips

Add a splash of soy sauce before reheating if it feels dry. A sprinkle of fresh green onions always wakes it back up.

Make It Look Amazing

Serve it straight from the baking dish with a golden top showing. A little fresh green onion on top adds color and makes it inviting.

Fun Variations to Try

Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Mix in scrambled tofu for protein. Use a cheese blend for deeper flavor. Add a pinch of garlic powder for warmth.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, it already is and works perfectly as a meat free meal.

Q2: Can I use brown rice?

Yes, just make sure it is fully cooked and cooled.

Q3: Is fresh pineapple better than canned?

Fresh gives brighter flavor, but canned works well if drained.

Q4: Can I reduce the cheese?

You can, though the cheesy top is part of the charm.

Q5: Can kids enjoy this?

Absolutely, it is mild and comforting.

Q6: Can I bake it longer for a crispier top?

Yes, add a few extra minutes and watch closely.

Q7: Does it reheat well?

Yes, it stays flavorful when reheated gently.

Q8: Can I add spices?

A little white pepper or garlic powder works nicely.

Q9: What baking dish size works best?

A medium rectangular dish spreads heat evenly.

Q10: Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely, it holds up well for a few days.

Conclusion

This one’s a total game changer when you want something comforting, easy, and just a little different. Sweet pineapple, savory rice, and melted cheese all in one bite, let me tell you, it’s hard to beat. Give it a try, share it with people you love, and enjoy every warm, cheesy forkful.

Print