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.
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.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.Servings 8
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
