If you’re craving a dish that combines sweet, savory, and comforting all in one, this Pineapple Casserole Recipe hits every note with ease and joy. It’s a delightful blend of juicy pineapples, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping that transforms everyday ingredients into a standout side or centerpiece. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this casserole delivers a burst of flavor and a warm, homey texture that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pineapple Casserole Recipe lies in its simple ingredients that come together in harmony. Each component plays a vital role; the pineapples bring freshness and sweetness, the cheddar cheese adds a creamy tang, and the buttery cracker topping ensures a perfect crunch that finishes every bite wonderfully.
- Pineapple chunks (1 can, 20 oz): Use well-drained chunks for a juicy burst without excess liquid.
- Crushed pineapple (1 can, 20 oz): Adds extra pineapple flavor and moisture to the base.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness to enhance the fruit’s natural flavor.
- All-purpose flour (6 tablespoons): Helps thicken the pineapple mixture for a perfect texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Sharp and rich cheese brings a wonderful savory depth.
- Butter, melted (1/2 cup): Creates that golden, crispy cracker topping everyone will love.
- Ritz crackers, crushed (1 sleeve): Provides a buttery, crunchy finish that contrasts the smooth casserole.
How to Make Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and lets the edges crisp up beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Pineapple Base
In a large bowl, combine the well-drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with the sugar and flour. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is evenly combined. This blend is what makes the dish uniquely sweet and savory at the same time.
Step 3: Pour and Level
Next, pour your pineapple mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. This will be the luscious, cheesy foundation for your topping.
Step 4: Add the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers. This butter-soaked crumb topping will bake up golden and crispy, creating the perfect texture contrast. Sprinkle it evenly over the pineapple mixture for full coverage.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles up enticingly around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest time helps everything set slightly, making it easier to scoop and savor each warm, cheesy, pineapple-filled bite.
How to Serve Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair can elevate your Pineapple Casserole Recipe. Try garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to add a bit of color and a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with classic comfort foods. Serve alongside roasted meats like ham or turkey, or add a fresh green salad for a bright contrast that complements the rich, cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Pineapple Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This approach makes each serving feel extra special and perfect for entertaining guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly! Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and when ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your pineapple casserole back to life, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain the crunchy topping and creamy interior, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a bright, juicy flavor, but be sure to drain it well or lightly pat it dry to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole too watery.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional Ritz crackers and all-purpose flour used here contain gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this casserole vegan?
To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cheddar cheese alternatives, vegan butter, and check for vegan-friendly crackers. The pineapple and sugar are naturally vegan.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, but you could also experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mild mozzarella for a different flavor dimension.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for a bubbling filling around the edges and a golden, crisp cracker topping. The cheese should be melted throughout, and the casserole should be hot in the center.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special without any fuss. It’s sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy all at once, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try—you may just find a new favorite to add to your recipe rotation that brings a little sunshine to your table.
Print
Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pineapple Casserole is a unique and comforting side dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory cheddar cheese and a buttery Ritz cracker topping. This baked casserole offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect accompaniment for holiday meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Pineapple and Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple with the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers until the crackers are fully coated.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to ensure it sets properly and is safe to eat.
Notes
- Drain pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced flavor.
- For a richer topping, increase butter to 3/4 cup if desired.
- This dish pairs well with ham, turkey, or other holiday meats.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
