Pineapple casserole is a uniquely Southern comfort dish that combines the sweet tang of pineapple with the savory richness of cheese and buttery crackers.
It may sound unusual at first, but this crowd-pleasing side dish delivers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy topping. Often served alongside ham, turkey, or barbecue, pineapple casserole shines at holiday dinners, potlucks, and Sunday suppers.
With simple ingredients and easy prep, it’s a nostalgic favorite that brings warmth and charm to any table. If you’re craving something unexpected and delicious, this golden-baked classic is sure to surprise and delight.
Best Pineapple Casserole
Description
Pineapple Casserole is a sweet-and-savory Southern classic that pairs juicy pineapple chunks with sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery Ritz cracker topping.
This surprisingly delicious combo delivers a balance of tangy, salty, and crunchy in every bite. It’s often served as a side dish at holiday meals, potlucks, or family gatherings, especially alongside ham.
The dish is easy to prepare, using canned pineapple, cheese, sugar, flour, and crushed crackers.
Its unique flavor profile and nostalgic charm make it a beloved comfort food that continues to win over skeptics. It’s perfect for spring and summer but welcome year-round.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, combine drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, ¼ cup reserved pineapple juice, sugar, and flour. Stir until well mixed.
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Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until evenly coated.
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Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the pineapple mixture.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 50mg17%
- Sodium 450mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 7g15%
- Calcium 150 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Best Pineapple Casserole: Tips & Serving Tricks
Pineapple Casserole is a sweet-and-savory Southern favorite that surprises many with its unique blend of fruit, cheese, and buttery cracker topping.
It's often served as a side dish during holidays or potlucks, and with a few pro tips, you can make it irresistible. Ingredients that Shine
Start with quality ingredients. Use canned pineapple in 100% juice—not syrup—for balanced sweetness.
A combo of crushed pineapple and pineapple chunks creates the best texture: crushed for moisture, chunks for bite. Stick with sharp cheddar cheese. Its tangy bite contrasts beautifully with the sweet pineapple.
Ritz crackers are the traditional topping. Their buttery flavor and crisp texture are essential, but you can mix in some panko crumbs or chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Flavor Balance Tips
Pineapple is naturally sweet, so balance is key. Don’t skip the cheese—it’s the savory anchor. A pinch of salt helps cut through the sugar and enhances the cheddar. If your dish ends up overly sweet, a small splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne can brighten it up.
If you're feeling bold, a few finely diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika in the filling can give the casserole a subtle spicy twist.
Assembly Tips
Drain pineapple well. Press the crushed pineapple in a strainer to remove excess juice—otherwise, your casserole may turn soggy. But don’t toss the juice! Use a tablespoon or two to mix into the filling for flavor without over-saturating.
Mix the pineapple and cheese first, then gently fold in a small amount of cracker crumbs for body. Don’t overmix—keep it chunky and rustic.
For the topping, crush crackers by hand or with a rolling pin for a mix of textures. Mix with melted butter just before baking to keep them crisp.
Baking & Serving Tricks
Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Let it rest 10 minutes before serving so it sets up slightly—this makes scooping easier.
Serve it warm for the best experience. If you’re prepping ahead, assemble and refrigerate, but add the cracker topping just before baking.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a small scoop of whipped ricotta for a fun, brunchy twist.
Serving Tips
Pineapple Casserole pairs beautifully with savory mains like ham, pork tenderloin, or fried chicken. For holidays, it stands out next to stuffing and green bean casserole.
Serve in a pretty dish—its golden top and speckled pineapple shine with a rustic charm. For potlucks, individual ramekins are a fun and fancy way to portion it out.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pineapple Casserole?
Pineapple casserole is a sweet-and-savory Southern comfort dish made with canned pineapple, shredded cheddar cheese, buttery Ritz crackers, and a touch of sugar. It’s typically served as a side dish during holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinners—especially alongside ham or turkey.
Why do cheese and pineapple go together?
It may sound unusual, but sharp cheddar complements the sweetness of pineapple beautifully. The contrast creates a unique flavor balance that’s both tangy and rich, similar to sweet-and-savory combinations like apples and cheddar or fruit chutneys on cheese boards.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it—add the cracker topping right before baking to keep it crispy. You can also freeze it (unbaked) for up to 1 month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Is it a dessert or a side dish?
It’s typically served as a side dish in the South, but it blurs the line between sweet and savory. The buttery, cheesy topping gives it a richness that pairs well with salty meats, while the pineapple and sugar make it sweet enough to pass as a quirky dessert.
