The Best Pineapple Casserole Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Simple

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

What is Pineapple Casserole Recipe?

A pineapple casserole recipe is a delightful and unique dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a way that surprises the palate. Originating in the southern United States, this dish has become a beloved addition to potlucks, holiday meals, and family gatherings. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with baked ham, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone dessert.

At its core, the recipe consists of a mix of crushed pineapple, sugar, and flour, layered with buttery crackers and melted cheese. While the combination may seem unconventional, the result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The tangy sweetness of pineapple complements the richness of cheese, while the buttery crackers add a delightful crunch to every bite.

For those who enjoy unique and comforting recipes, you may also love this “Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Recipe” for its easy preparation and bold flavors.

This casserole is cherished for its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, it is accessible even for novice cooks. The recipe also allows for creative variations, such as adding spices, substituting cheese types, or incorporating nuts for added texture.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting family meal, a pineapple casserole recipe brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to transform ordinary ingredients into something truly special. Let’s explore how to perfect this classic dish in the sections below.

Key Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole Recipe

The beauty of a pineapple casserole recipe lies in its simplicity and the way a few basic ingredients come together to create a memorable dish. Below are the key components you’ll need:

• Crushed Pineapple: The star of the recipe, providing tangy sweetness and a moist texture. Be sure to drain it well to avoid a soggy casserole.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps to thicken the pineapple mixture, giving it a slightly creamy consistency.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bold, savory flavor of cheddar creates a perfect contrast with the pineapple’s sweetness.
• Buttery Crackers: Typically Ritz crackers are used, offering a buttery crunch that tops off the casserole beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the cracker topping, adding richness and enhancing flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg: For a touch of warmth and spice.
• Pecans or Walnuts: Add crunch and a nutty depth to the topping.
• Brown Sugar: As an alternative to granulated sugar, for a deeper caramel-like sweetness.

Each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy. With these items in hand, you’re ready to prepare a pineapple casserole recipe that is both easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress. Up next, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step preparation process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pineapple Casserole Recipe

Preparing a pineapple casserole recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create this delicious dish:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and achieves the perfect texture.

2. Prepare the Pineapple Mixture

• Drain 2 cans of crushed pineapple (20 oz each) thoroughly to remove excess juice.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Stir until the ingredients are well blended.

3. Add the Cheese

• Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese should coat the pineapple mixture evenly for the ideal sweet-and-savory balance.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the pineapple mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Create the Cracker Topping

• Crush about 1 sleeve of buttery crackers (approximately 35 crackers) into crumbs.
• Mix the crumbs with 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter until fully coated.

6. Top and Bake

• Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture. Ensure it covers the entire surface for a uniform crunch.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

This step-by-step process guarantees a perfectly baked pineapple casserole recipe every time, whether for a casual meal or a festive gathering.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Casserole Recipe

To elevate your pineapple casserole recipe and ensure it turns out flawless every time, consider these expert tips:

• Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Excess liquid can make your casserole soggy. Press the pineapple with a spatula to remove as much juice as possible.
• Choose Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bold flavor of sharp cheddar contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple. Avoid mild cheese, as it may get lost in the dish.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the sugar slightly without compromising the flavor balance.
• Perfect the Cracker Topping: Crush crackers into even crumbs for a consistent texture. Mixing them with melted butter ensures they brown evenly and add a delightful crunch.
• Add a Touch of Spice: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the pineapple mixture can add a layer of warmth and complexity.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Grating cheese fresh ensures creamier results.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and a nutty twist.

By following these pro tips, your pineapple casserole recipe will stand out as a flavorful and well-balanced dish that delights every guest.

Storing and Reheating Pineapple Casserole Recipe

Proper storage and reheating ensure your pineapple casserole recipe retains its flavor and texture, even as leftovers. Here’s how to do it right:

Storing the Casserole

• Refrigerate: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze it without the cracker topping and add the topping fresh when reheating.

Reheating the Casserole

• In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If frozen, let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Place it in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for 20–25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to crisp the topping.
• In the Microwave: For a quick option, scoop a portion onto a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, though the topping may lose some crispness.
• Add Fresh Topping: If reheating frozen casserole, prepare a fresh cracker topping for a crunchy finish.

By following these storage and reheating tips, your pineapple casserole recipe will remain as delicious as the day it was made.

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Casserole Recipe

The pineapple casserole recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort and joy to the table. Its combination of sweet pineapple, rich cheese, and buttery cracker topping creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for holiday meals or as a unique dessert, this casserole has a way of winning over everyone who tries it.

One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, the recipe is endlessly customizable. You can adjust the sweetness, add spices, or include nuts for a personal twist that suits your taste.

Another standout feature is its versatility. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, from savory roasted meats to lighter vegetarian options. It’s equally at home on a festive holiday table or at a casual family gathering.

Most importantly, the pineapple casserole recipe brings people together. Its nostalgic charm and comforting flavors evoke a sense of warmth and connection. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection, creating new traditions and happy memories for years to come.

Pineapple Casserole Recipe

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This sweet and savory pineapple casserole recipe combines crushed pineapple, cheddar cheese, and buttery crackers for a delightful dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 (20 oz) cans crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (about 35 crackers), crushed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple, sugar, and flour. Mix well.
• Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until coated.
• Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the pineapple mixture.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent a soggy casserole.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
• This dish pairs beautifully with baked ham or roasted chicken.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: pineapple casserole recipe, sweet and savory casserole, Southern side dish

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