Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole offers a delicious blend of sweet, salty, buttery, and tangy flavors.
It requires only a handful of simple ingredients.
The recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for holidays and family gatherings.
The crispy cracker topping provides a wonderful contrast to the juicy pineapple filling.
It pairs exceptionally well with ham, pork, turkey, and other savory main dishes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the casserole:
Pineapple chunks, drained
Crushed pineapple, drained
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
For the topping:
Buttery crackers, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sugar, and flour. Stir until evenly coated.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until distributed throughout the mixture.
Transfer the pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Rest time: 5 minutes
Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Variations
Add chopped pecans to the cracker topping for extra crunch.
Use smoked cheddar cheese for a deeper savory flavor.
Mix in a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle warm spice note.
Substitute part of the pineapple with diced peaches for a fruity twist.
Top with toasted coconut before serving for additional texture and flavor.
Use gluten-free crackers and flour to create a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pineapple casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.
For larger portions, reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven until warmed through.
Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months, although the topping may lose some crispness after thawing.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What is Pineapple Casserole?
Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern dish made with pineapple, cheddar cheese, sugar, and a buttery cracker topping, baked until golden and bubbly.
Is Pineapple Casserole a side dish or dessert?
It can be served as either, although it is most commonly enjoyed as a side dish with savory meals.
Why is cheese added to Pineapple Casserole?
The cheddar cheese adds a savory element that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and creates the dish’s signature flavor.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is traditionally used because its bold flavor complements the sweet pineapple.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be substituted for canned pineapple as long as excess juice is drained.
What crackers are traditionally used?
Buttery round crackers are the classic choice for the topping.
Can I make Pineapple Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I freeze Pineapple Casserole?
Yes, although the cracker topping may soften slightly after thawing and reheating.
What main dishes pair well with this casserole?
It pairs especially well with baked ham, roasted pork, turkey, grilled chicken, and holiday meals.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Add the cracker topping just before baking and reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave whenever possible.
Conclusion
Pineapple Casserole is a timeless Southern favorite that delivers an unforgettable combination of sweet pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and buttery cracker topping. Easy to prepare and perfect for holidays or family dinners, this comforting dish continues to win over new fans with its unique flavor and satisfying texture.
PrintPineapple Casserole
Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern dish that combines sweet pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. This unique sweet-and-savory casserole is perfect alongside ham, roasted meats, and holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pineapple chunks, drained
- Crushed pineapple, drained
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Buttery crackers, crushed
- Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sugar, and flour. Stir until evenly coated.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
Notes
- Add chopped pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
- Use smoked cheddar cheese for a deeper savory flavor.
- A pinch of cinnamon adds subtle warmth.
- Substitute part of the pineapple with diced peaches for a fruity variation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers and flour.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 38 mg
