If you’ve never experienced the magic that is Pineapple Casserole, brace yourself for a flavor adventure that’s equal parts comfort and curiosity. Sweet, juicy pineapple nestles under a golden, buttery cracker topping, all melded together with sharp cheddar cheese for a side dish that’s beloved throughout the South (and beyond). It’s easy to make, always draws a crowd, and adds a surprising pop of tropical tang to any holiday or Sunday spread. This Pineapple Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a must-have on every celebratory table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long list to create Pineapple Casserole, but each ingredient here plays a starring role. From the sweetness of pineapple to the salty crunch of crackers, these basics come together for something truly special—no fancy techniques, just bold flavors in every bite!
- Pineapple chunks in juice: The firm, juicy bites give the casserole its signature sweet-tangy bursts. Choose pineapple in juice for the freshest flavor.
- Crushed pineapple: Adds soft, lush texture and blends well with the filling, making each forkful extra moist and fruity.
- Granulated sugar: Balances out the natural tang of the pineapple, locking in that irresistible sweet-and-savory combo.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the casserole just enough so it’s never watery and always scoopable.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The real surprise! Sharp cheddar melts into the fruit filling, adding depth and a rich, cheesy bite.
- Ritz crackers: Crushed crackers form the bubbly, golden topping that’s as comforting as it is deliciously salty-sweet.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with crackers, butter brings the topping together and helps it crisp beautifully.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similarly sized baking dish—this ensures easy serving later and helps prevent sticking. A little prep goes a long way toward that perfect, golden edge!
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine your well-drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir just until everything is evenly mixed—take care not to break up the pineapple chunks too much, as those nuggets give every bite a pop of juicy flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Don’t skip this step! Fold in the sharp cheddar cheese with the pineapple, sugar, and flour mixture. It may seem unusual, but the cheese is what makes a Pineapple Casserole truly memorable—its savory richness balances out the sweetness like nothing else.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour the filling into your prepared dish and gently spread it into an even layer. A silicone spatula helps you get every last bit of that luscious mixture where it belongs.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until every crumb is delightfully coated—this will create that craveable crunchy topping. Scatter the cracker mixture evenly over your pineapple filling, covering it completely for best results.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your assembled Pineapple Casserole to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a topping that’s crisp and deeply golden, with bubbly edges where the filling peeks through. Let it rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving so the casserole sets up just enough to slice and serve neatly.
How to Serve Pineapple Casserole
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or a touch of fresh chopped parsley for color if you want to get fancy, but truly, Pineapple Casserole is show-stopping all on its own. Serving it slightly warm brings out both the creamy and crisp elements.
Side Dishes
This casserole stuns alongside classic Southern proteins like glazed ham or pork tenderloin. Want to go lighter? Serve it next to roast chicken or as part of a brunch buffet, and watch even the skeptics go back for seconds.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Portion Pineapple Casserole into ramekins for individual servings, or serve spoonfuls over fluffy, hot rice for a sweet-savory main. It even makes a quirky potluck contribution, since it holds its own warm or at room temperature.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Pineapple Casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The topping will soften a bit, but the flavors get even cozier as they mingle—making for a tempting snack the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze Pineapple Casserole after baking (or even before adding the cracker topping). Wrap well with foil and freeze up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, add a fresh cracker topping if you like, and reheat.
Reheating
For best results, warm leftover Pineapple Casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, for about 15 minutes. Uncover for the last few minutes to help the cracker topping regain its crisp texture. Quick reheats in the microwave work in a pinch, too, though the topping may be less crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can swap in fresh pineapple—just make sure to chop it into small chunks and drain off any extra juice to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Is it possible to make Pineapple Casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and substitute your favorite gluten-free buttery crackers for the Ritz. The flavor and crunch will still shine.
Why do you pair cheese with pineapple?
The combination of sharp cheddar and sweet-tart pineapple is what really sets Pineapple Casserole apart. The cheese lends a savory depth and just enough salt to cut through the sweetness, creating an unforgettable balance.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Of course—feel free to use as little as 2/3 cup of sugar if you prefer your Pineapple Casserole less sweet. The fruit and cheese will still provide plenty of natural flavor.
What size dish can I use if I don’t have a 9×9?
You can use an 8×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole or an 11×7-inch for thinner, crispier portions. Just watch the bake time, adjusting slightly as needed for your pan.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to Pineapple Casserole or rediscovering a childhood favorite, this dish is full of warmth, comfort, and the kind of unexpected twist that makes every bite memorable. Give it a try for your next gathering or weeknight dinner—you’re in for a sweet and savory treat that just might become your new signature.
Print
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of this classic Southern dish with a twist. This Pineapple Casserole combines the tropical goodness of pineapple with the richness of cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine drained pineapples, sugar, flour, and cheese. Pour into baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over pineapple mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest before serving.
Notes
- This casserole is a Southern classic, great with ham or pork.
- Adjust sugar for a less sweet version.
- Drain pineapple well to avoid excess liquid.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
