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.
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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.
If you like this one, you might also enjoy the southern baked macaroni and cheese which has that same comfort food charm.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks, keeping ¼ cup of the juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks, reserved juice, crushed pineapple, shredded cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 ½-quart casserole dish.
Add the topping
- In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle evenly over the pineapple mixture.
Bake
- Place the dish in the oven and bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- 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.
FAQ
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.
Both! In the South, it's usually served with ham or pork, but it can also work as a unique dessert.
Absolutely. Use gluten-free crackers and all-purpose flour substitutes.
Sharp cheddar is classic. Its tangy bite balances the sweetness perfectly.
Recipes you may like
📖 Recipe
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
A sweet and savory Southern classic, this pineapple casserole combines juicy pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and buttery cracker topping. Perfect for holidays or Sunday suppers.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the pineapple chunks, keeping ¼ cup of the juice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple chunks, reserved juice, crushed pineapple, shredded cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 ½-quart casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle evenly over the pineapple mixture.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—it will be bubbly and delicious.
Notes
Drain the pineapple really well to avoid sogginess. Grate your own cheddar for best melt. Use real butter for a rich topping. Make-ahead by assembling a day early (add topping before baking). Keeps 3–4 days in fridge; reheat at 325°F.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 portionAmount Per Serving: Calories: 310Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 320mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 1gSugar: 18gProtein: 7g
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