If you’ve never experienced the irresistible Southern charm of Pineapple Casserole, you’re in for a real treat! This quirky-sounding dish combines juicy pineapple, sharp Cheddar, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping to deliver the perfect sweet-and-salty comfort food sensation. It’s a conversation starter that always disappears first at potlucks—and now, you can have the secret at your fingertips.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unexpected Flavor Magic: Sweet pineapple, cheddar, and crackers combine for a salty-sweet bite that surprises and delights every single time.
- Ridiculously Easy: You only need a handful of pantry staples, making this casserole just as convenient as it is crave-worthy.
- Potluck MVP: Pineapple Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser with a unique twist, making it stand out at any holiday table or covered dish party.
- Versatile Companion: Whether served as a side or even a quirky dessert, this casserole fits just about any meal or mood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make Pineapple Casserole’s signature combination of sweet, sharp, and crisp. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—don’t be tempted to skip or skimp; these basics are why this casserole is out-of-this-world!
- Pineapple Chunks in Juice (2 cans): The star of the show! Using the juice, not syrup, gives perfect sweetness and tang without overwhelming the dish.
- Sugar: A little bit draws out the pineapple’s natural flavors and ensures a sweet bite throughout.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the filling ever-so-slightly—no runny casseroles here.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds irresistible tang and depth; sharp cheddar is best for flavor contrast.
- Butter (melted): Binds the topping and brings rich, indulgent flavor to every crumb.
- Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz give a golden, toasty, buttery crunch that’s totally essential for the classic topping.
Variations
One of my favorite things about Pineapple Casserole is how it’s easy to make uniquely yours—just a few tweaks can turn this classic into something that fits your family or special diet perfectly.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that captures all the flavor and crunch.
- Extra-Crunchy Topping: Mix in some chopped pecans with the cracker topping for a delightful nutty crunch.
- Lighter Version: Try reduced-fat cheese and light butter if you want a slightly healthier twist without sacrificing the signature taste.
- Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce into the pineapple mixture for an intriguing little heat wave in every bite.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole
Step 1: Mix Up the Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, stir together the sugar, flour, and the reserved 6 tablespoons of pineapple juice until smooth. Add the drained pineapple chunks and gently toss to coat. This is where the magic starts—the flour soaks up the juicy sweetness, creating a luscious base for the casserole.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Spoon the pineapple mixture into an 8×8-inch casserole dish, making sure it’s spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pineapple layer. Don’t be shy with the cheese—its sharpness brings the whole casserole together.
Step 3: Ritz Cracker Topping
Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl, stirring until all the crumbs are buttery and golden. Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, covering every cheesy inch. This is where that signature crunch happens!
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’re aiming for a bubbly, golden top with cheese peeking out under a crispy cracker layer. Let it rest a few minutes before serving so the filling sets—then dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Pineapple Casserole
- Cheese Matters: Choose a good-quality sharp cheddar for the most flavorful bite—the contrast with pineapple is what makes this classic shine.
- No Soggy Bottoms: Drain the pineapple chunks really well so your casserole sets up perfectly and isn’t watery.
- Topping Lasts: If you need to prep ahead, keep the cracker topping separate until you’re ready to bake so it stays crisp and golden.
- Serving Temperature: Pineapple Casserole is delicious warm from the oven or at room temp, so it’s super forgiving for timing at parties.
How to Serve Pineapple Casserole
Garnishes
If you want to go the extra mile, add a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley or sliced green onions across the top before serving. The pop of green is beautiful against the golden crust (and parsley adds a lovely freshness, too!).
Side Dishes
Pineapple Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple baked ham, roasted turkey, or even savory barbecue. It also plays well next to classic Southern sides like green beans, collard greens, or a big, crisp salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at brunch or a party, scoop the casserole into ramekins for individual servings or layer it in a trifle dish to show off those colorful layers. You can even serve it as a surprising dessert with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pineapple Casserole keeps beautifully! Simply cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even further, and you’ll have a perfectly snackable scoop ready whenever you crave it.
Freezing
Pineapple Casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble and wrap tightly (without the cracker topping for best results). Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake fresh when ready.
Reheating
To reheat, just pop leftovers into a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes, until everything is heated through and the topping is crisp again. You can also warm individual portions in the microwave, though the cracker crust will be softer.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use very ripe pineapple and cut it into small chunks. You’ll need about 4 cups and 6 tablespoons of pineapple juice (store-bought or fresh), since the juice is key for the filling’s texture and flavor.
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Is Pineapple Casserole served as a dessert or a side dish?
This is the great debate! Traditionally it’s served as a sweet-savory side with ham or turkey, especially at Southern gatherings, but don’t be afraid to dish it up as an unexpected dessert, too. It shines both ways!
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Can I assemble Pineapple Casserole ahead of time?
You sure can! Mix together the filling, spread the cheese on top, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Wait to add the cracker topping until just before baking for maximum crunch.
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What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp Cheddar is classic because it stands up beautifully to the sweet pineapple. Mild cheddar will work if it’s what you have, but for the best flavor contrast, go for sharp or even extra-sharp varieties.
Final Thoughts
If ever there was a dish bursting with warmth, nostalgia, and a dash of daring, Pineapple Casserole is it! Give it a try at your next get-together or weeknight dinner, and watch new fans appear with every sweet-and-savory bite. I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own—happy baking!
Print
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Pineapple Casserole recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a cheesy, buttery topping for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients:
- 2 (20-oz.) cans pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve 6 Tbsp. juice)
- 1/3 cups sugar
- 5 Tbsp. flour
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Cracker Topping:
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Combine casserole ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium size bowl, combine sugar, flour, and reserved pineapple juice. Add pineapple chunks and toss well to combine. Spoon pineapple mixture into 8×8-inch casserole dish, and top with shredded cheese.
- Add cracker topping: Combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Spread Ritz cracker topping evenly on top of pineapple mixture.
- Bake casserole: Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until bubbly.
Notes
- This casserole pairs well with a ham dinner or makes a delicious side dish for any occasion.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
