Pineapple casserole is one of those recipes that I was hesitant to try at first — but after one bite, I completely understood why it’s a staple at Southern gatherings and potlucks. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with juicy pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping that ties everything together. It sounds unusual, but trust me, it works beautifully.
The first time I made pineapple casserole was for Easter dinner, and it instantly became a family favorite. It’s now one of those dishes I bring to every holiday meal, and there’s never a spoonful left. It pairs wonderfully with ham, turkey, and just about anything else on the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time.
Why I Love This Pineapple Casserole
- The sweet-and-savory combo is surprisingly addicting.
- Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, and BBQs.
- Comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
- The buttery cracker topping adds the perfect crunch.
- Great make-ahead side that’s just as good reheated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 8–10 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Bake Time: 30 minutes)
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How I Make Pineapple Casserole (Step-by-Step)
- Preheat the Oven
I preheat my oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Mix the Pineapple Base
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the drained pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. I stir everything until it’s well combined and the pineapple is coated. - Add the Mixture to the Baking Dish
I pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. - Make the Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, I mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are coated. - Add the Topping
I sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple base. - Bake
I bake the casserole for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. - Serve Warm
I serve this dish warm, straight from the oven. It’s sweet, cheesy, and crunchy — a perfect side for ham or turkey.
My Tips for the Best Pineapple Casserole
- Drain the pineapple well so the casserole doesn’t get watery.
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best flavor and melt.
- Don’t skip the cracker topping — it adds the perfect buttery crunch.
- If prepping ahead, assemble everything except the topping and add the crackers right before baking.
Fun Variations I’ve Tried
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- Mixing in chopped pecans with the cracker topping for extra texture.
- Using half cheddar and half mozzarella for a creamier bite.
- Trying it with fresh pineapple when it’s in season — the flavor is incredible!
What I Serve with Pineapple Casserole
- Baked ham — they’re a perfect pairing for Easter or Christmas.
- Roast turkey or chicken at holiday dinners.
- Southern classics like green bean casserole and cornbread.
- Grilled pork chops or BBQ ribs for summer cookouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make pineapple casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the filling, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping right before baking.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple?
A: You can! Just chop it into small pieces and make sure it’s well drained.
Q: What crackers work best?
A: Buttery crackers like Ritz are perfect, but you can use Club crackers as well.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — use gluten-free flour and gluten-free crackers, and it will turn out just as delicious.
Why This Pineapple Casserole Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This pineapple casserole is one of those dishes that surprises people — in the best way. The sweet pineapple and savory cheddar cheese come together with a crunchy topping that makes it impossible to stop eating. Whether you’re serving it alongside ham for Easter, bringing it to a potluck, or adding it to a holiday dinner, this recipe is always a winner.
I hope you give it a try and fall in love with this Southern classic like I have. And if you come up with your own creative twists, I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own!
Easy Pineapple Casserole That’s Sweet, Cheesy, and Perfect for Any Spread
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups unsalted butter
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with melted butter until well combined.
- Add the pineapple and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the pineapple mixture.
- If using, sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the cracker layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Leave a Reply