Introduction
Imagine a dish that’s sweet, savory, cheesy, and crunchy—all in one bite. Sounds like a dream, right? That’s exactly what the pineapple casserole recipe delivers. This Southern classic is a perfect blend of juicy pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, buttery Ritz crackers, and a touch of sugar, creating a mouthwatering contrast of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
A fun fact about this dish? Despite its dessert-like sweetness, it’s often served as a side dish at holiday dinners and potlucks! Many people are surprised to learn that this casserole pairs beautifully with ham, turkey, or even barbecue. It’s one of those unexpected recipes that leave a lasting impression—just ask any Southerner who grew up with it on their table!
One of the best things about the pineapple casserole recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for any gathering. No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients—just a handful of pantry staples mixed together to create something magical.
If you love sweet and savory comfort foods, you’ll enjoy this just as much as other popular classics like sweet potato casserole or corn pudding. Both recipes share the same comforting, creamy, and slightly sweet profile that makes them a hit at family dinners.
Ready to experience the magic of pineapple casserole? Let’s dive into this easy, foolproof recipe that’s guaranteed to steal the show at your next meal!
What is Pineapple Casserole Recipe?
If you’ve never heard of a pineapple casserole recipe, you might be wondering—what exactly is it? Is it a dessert? A side dish? A tropical twist on mac and cheese? The answer is: all of the above and more!
The name might sound unusual, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. Think about it—have you ever had a Hawaiian pizza with pineapple and cheese? The idea isn’t too far off. This dish takes the sweet-and-savory concept to the next level with a creamy, cheesy pineapple filling topped with crispy, buttery cracker crumbs.
So, why is it called pineapple casserole? Well, casseroles are known for being a mix of ingredients baked together in a single dish, and that’s exactly what this is. The combination may sound surprising at first, but as the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach! Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this dish has been a Southern favorite for generations.
Don’t just take my word for it—grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and see for yourself why this pineapple casserole recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Casserole Recipe
1. It’s the Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory
This dish is a flavor explosion in the best way possible. The juicy pineapple provides a natural sweetness, while the cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy contrast. Topped with buttery Ritz crackers, the crispy texture takes it to a whole new level.
2. It’s Budget-Friendly and Easy to Make
With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a dish that tastes like a gourmet treat. No expensive or hard-to-find ingredients—just pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. Plus, it’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it a lifesaver for last-minute meals.
3. It’s a Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, potluck, or weeknight dinner, this pineapple casserole recipe always gets rave reviews. It pairs beautifully with ham, turkey, or even grilled chicken, making it a versatile side dish for any meal.
If you love this, you might also enjoy cornbread casserole, which has a similar comforting, slightly sweet taste with a delicious, golden crust.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Quick Overview
This pineapple casserole recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply mix pineapple, cheese, sugar, and flour, top it with buttery crackers, and bake until golden brown. The result? A dish that’s sweet, creamy, crunchy, and impossible to resist!
Key Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine drained pineapple, sugar, flour, and cheddar cheese.
- Stir until everything is well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Prepare the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
What to Serve with Pineapple Casserole Recipe
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Glazed ham – The sweet and salty combo is unbeatable.
- Roast turkey – A Thanksgiving favorite!
- Grilled chicken – Adds a smoky contrast.
- Green beans – A fresh and crunchy side.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Use sharp cheddar – It balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Drain the pineapple well – Too much liquid can make the dish soggy.
- Don’t skip the butter – It helps create a crispy topping.
- Try adding cinnamon – For a hint of warm spice.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes to keep the topping crispy.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before baking.
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). / Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Filling In a large bowl, combine drained crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole Spread the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling.
- Bake the Casserole Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool & Serve Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
6 Q&A for Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Just dice and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar works best for a bold contrast to the sweetness.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
Can I use gluten-free crackers?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free alternative.
Is this dish a side or dessert?
Both! It’s often served as a side, but it’s sweet enough for dessert.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well too.
