pineapple casserole recipe

If you've never tried a pineapple casserole recipe, you're in for a real treat. This dish is one of those Southern staples that sounds unusual at first (pineapple and cheese? with crackers?), but trust me-it works. The mix of sweet pineapple, sharp cheddar, and buttery cracker topping makes it perfect for holidays, Sunday suppers, or anytime you want something a little different on the table.

I first made this casserole for Easter a few years back, and my family has insisted it come back every year since. It's one of those recipes that has everyone reaching for seconds.

this recipe

If you like this one, you might also enjoy my southern baked macaroni and cheese which has that same comfort food charm.

Jump to:

• ingredients you'll need
• step-by-step directions
• tips for best results
• make-ahead and storage
• serving suggestions
• common questions
• recipes you may like
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Reviews

ingredients you'll need

Here's what goes into this casserole. Simple pantry staples come together for something special:

• 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve ¼ cup juice)
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup white sugar, or to taste
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 40 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
• ½ cup butter, melted, or to taste

step-by-step directions

prepare the base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Drain the pineapple chunks, keeping ¼ cup of the juice.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks, reserved juice, crushed pineapple, shredded cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir until well mixed.
4. Pour the mixture into a 1 ½-quart casserole dish.

add the topping

5. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle evenly over the pineapple mixture.

bake

7. Place the dish in the oven and bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving-it will be bubbly and delicious.

tips for best results

• Drain the pineapple really well. Extra juice can make the casserole soggy.
• Grate your own cheddar. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-bagged.
• Use real butter. Margarine just doesn't give the same rich flavor for the topping.

make-ahead and storage

You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble everything (except the cracker topping), cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping right before baking.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm.

serving suggestions

Pineapple casserole is a natural side dish for:

• Baked ham
• Roast pork tenderloin
• Barbecue chicken
• Even alongside salmon for a tropical twist

It also works as a fun sweet-savory potluck contribution.

common questions

can i make this with fresh pineapple?
Yes, but make sure it's ripe, well-drained, and chopped small. Fresh pineapple tends to be less sweet, so you may need a little more sugar.

is pineapple casserole a side dish or dessert?
Both! In the South, it's usually served with ham or pork, but it can also work as a unique dessert.

can i make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free crackers and all-purpose flour substitutes.

what type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic. Its tangy bite balances the sweetness perfectly.

recipes you may like

• southern baked macaroni and cheese
• sweet potato casserole with pecan topping
• classic cornbread stuffing

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📖 Recipe