If you love the delightful harmony of sweet and savory flavors, this Pineapple Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite side dish. Bursting with the tropical brightness of pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple, it’s perfectly balanced by sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping. This Southern classic is easy to prepare, brings a comforting, warm glow to the table, and is simply irresistible when paired with ham, pork, or even enjoyed on its own. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will secure a special spot in your heart and on your holiday menus.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pineapple Casserole Recipe calls for simple pantry staples that come together beautifully to create a casserole with layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient serves a unique purpose, from the juicy sweetness of pineapple to the melty richness of cheddar, and the crispy, buttery cracker topping that crowns this dish.
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved: Use fresh, well-drained chunks to keep the casserole from becoming watery and to infuse juicy sweetness.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained: Adds texture contrast and intensifies the pineapple flavor without excess moisture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish, balancing the sharpness of the cheese and enhancing the pineapple’s natural sugars.
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the casserole a beautiful, cohesive texture.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a savory punch and creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with pineapple’s sweetness.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed: Brings a buttery, crispy topping that adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Coats the cracker crumbs for a golden, flavorful crust when baked.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish ensures your Pineapple Casserole Recipe will come out cleanly and keeps things from sticking—an essential first step for an easy serving experience.
Step 2: Combine the Pineapple Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir carefully so all these wonderful ingredients blend evenly, giving you a luscious, cohesive base for your casserole that’s bursting with both sweet and savory flavors.
Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Pour this pineapple-cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This layer is the heart of your casserole, striking the perfect balance between juicy pineapple sweetness and the rich, melty sharpness of the cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Prepare the Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until every crumb is coated in buttery goodness. This topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tender casserole beneath.
Step 5: Bake It to Perfection
Sprinkle your cracker topping evenly over the pineapple mixture, then slide the dish into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the cracker topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so it sets just right—making every spoonful smooth and delicious.
How to Serve Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair on top of this Pineapple Casserole Recipe can elevate its presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of paprika can add a lovely color pop and a hint of savory brightness to contrast the sweet elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines when paired with traditional Southern mains. Serve it alongside glazed ham, smoked pork chops, or roasted chicken to balance the meal with a touch of tropical sweetness. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables will round out the plate, keeping things fresh and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini casserole dishes. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking can customize this dish to your family’s taste buds. For potlucks, consider layering the casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can see the vibrant pineapple, creamy cheese, and golden crust all in one enticing view.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The beauty of this Pineapple Casserole Recipe is that leftovers keep well. Cover your cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will remain delicious for 3 to 4 days, perfect for easy lunches or a quick dinner side during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for longer storage. Wrap it well with aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen pineapple casserole will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftover Pineapple Casserole Recipe back to life, bake it in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, single servings can be reheated in the microwave, though the oven will help maintain that crispy cracker topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the Pineapple Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used, but it’s important to drain it well to avoid excess moisture which could make the casserole too watery. Dicing it into small chunks similar to canned pineapple will help keep the texture consistent.
Is there a way to make this Pineapple Casserole Recipe less sweet?
Yes, you can simply reduce the sugar by a quarter cup or more, depending on your preference. Since the pineapple already provides natural sweetness, cutting back on sugar won’t compromise the overall flavor but will balance the dish better for those who prefer less sweet sides.
Can I substitute the Ritz crackers for another type of cracker or topping?
For sure! While Ritz crackers provide a buttery, flaky crunch, you can replace them with crushed saltines, breadcrumbs, or even crushed pretzels for a slightly different twist. Just be sure to toss them with melted butter for that perfect, golden finish.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Pineapple Casserole Recipe is completely vegetarian as it uses no meat ingredients. It makes a flavorful and satisfying side that fits well in a vegetarian meal plan, especially paired with plant-based mains or hearty salads.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
The key is draining the pineapple thoroughly before mixing, as excess juice can affect texture. Also, mixing the flour into the pineapple and sugar helps absorb moisture and stabilize the casserole during baking for that perfect, sliceable consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Casserole Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special and comforting. Whether you’re bringing it to a family gathering or making a cozy weeknight meal, its sweet-savory balance and delightful textures promise to wow your taste buds. Don’t hesitate—give this classic Southern treasure a try and enjoy the warm smiles it brings to your table.
Print
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern side dish featuring a sweet and savory combination of pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping baked to golden perfection. This unique casserole pairs wonderfully with ham or pork and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to holiday meals or family dinners.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or a similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pineapple Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Gently mix all ingredients together until fully combined without breaking up the pineapple chunks.
- Assemble the Base: Pour the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly to create an even layer.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter until the crackers are well coated to ensure a crispy, buttery crust.
- Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the butter-coated crushed crackers evenly over the pineapple mixture. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the edges of the casserole are bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set slightly, which helps in slicing and serving.
Notes
- This sweet and savory casserole is a Southern classic and pairs surprisingly well with ham or pork dishes.
- You can reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version tailored to your preference.
- Be sure to drain the pineapple well to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole watery.
