Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe – Sweet & Savory Side Dish

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that balances sweet and savory flavors? This Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is the perfect choice! With juicy pineapple chunks, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this dish is a guaranteed hit at holiday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.

In this post, we’ll walk you through:

• Why this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is a must-try
• Step-by-step instructions for perfect results
• Expert tips for variations and serving suggestions
• Nutritional information and dietary adaptations

Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe

This Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is a Southern classic that combines unexpected flavors for a truly delicious experience. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

✅ Perfect Balance of Sweet & Savory – The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar cheese, while the buttery cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch.

✅ Quick & Simple to Make – With just 6 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep, this casserole is effortless yet impressive.

✅ Versatile Side Dish – Pairs wonderfully with ham, turkey, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone dish for brunch.

✅ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or potlucks—it’s always a hit!

Now, let’s get into the details of making this irresistible dish.

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Ingredients for Easy Pineapple Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need for this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe:

Main Ingredients

• 2 (20 oz) cans pineapple chunks, drained – Fresh pineapple can also be used, but canned is more convenient.
• 1 cup sugar – Adjust slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the mixture.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The sharpness balances the pineapple’s sweetness.

Buttery Cracker Topping

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed – Adds a delicious, crispy texture.
• ½ cup butter, melted – Binds the topping for a golden finish.

(See recipe card below for exact measurements and scaling options.)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Mix Pineapple Filling

• In a large bowl, combine:
  • Drained pineapple chunks
  • Sugar
  • Flour
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
• Stir until fully combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Make the Cracker Topping

• In a small bowl, mix:
  • Crushed Ritz crackers
  • Melted butter
• Stir until the crumbs are fully coated.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pineapple mixture.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
• Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

(Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end!)

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 The History and Popularity of Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole is a beloved Southern dish that has been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals for decades. Its origins can be traced back to mid-20th century America, where home cooks experimented with canned fruits and simple pantry ingredients to create comforting, flavorful dishes. The combination of sweet pineapple and sharp cheddar cheese might seem unusual at first, but it’s this unexpected pairing that makes the dish so memorable.

This Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe gained popularity because it’s both affordable and easy to prepare. Canned pineapple was (and still is) a convenient, shelf-stable ingredient, while Ritz crackers and cheddar cheese were common household items. The dish became especially popular in the South, where sweet-and-savory flavor profiles are a hallmark of regional cuisine. Over time, it evolved into a must-have side dish for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas dinners, often served alongside glazed ham or roasted turkey.

Today, pineapple casserole remains a nostalgic favorite, with many families passing down their own variations of the recipe. Some prefer a sweeter version with extra sugar, while others add a hint of spice with cayenne or black pepper. The dish’s versatility and crowd-pleasing nature ensure its continued popularity. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

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 Why This Recipe Works – The Science Behind the Flavors

At first glance, pineapple and cheddar cheese might seem like an odd combination, but there’s a scientific reason why this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe works so well. The key lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Pineapple’s natural acidity and sweetness contrast beautifully with the rich, umami notes of sharp cheddar cheese. This contrast creates a harmonious flavor profile that keeps your taste buds engaged.

The addition of sugar enhances the pineapple’s sweetness, while the flour helps thicken the mixture, preventing it from becoming too watery during baking. The Ritz cracker topping, coated in melted butter, adds a crispy, buttery crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey filling underneath. This interplay of textures—creamy, crunchy, and tender—makes every bite satisfying.

From a culinary science perspective, the baking process also plays a crucial role. As the casserole bakes, the cheese melts into the pineapple mixture, creating a luscious, cohesive filling. Meanwhile, the butter in the cracker topping browns, developing a deeper, toasty flavor. The result is a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts—simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

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 Serving Suggestions and Pairings

One of the best things about this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is its versatility. While it’s fantastic on its own, pairing it with the right dishes can elevate your entire meal. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Perfect for Holiday Dinners

• Glazed Ham – The sweetness of the pineapple complements the salty, smoky flavors of ham.
• Roasted Turkey – Adds a tropical twist to a traditional Thanksgiving spread.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Enhances the natural sweetness of both dishes.

Weeknight Dinner Pairings

• Grilled Chicken – The casserole’s richness balances lean protein.
• Pork Chops – A sweet-and-savory match made in heaven.
• Rice Pilaf – Absorbs the casserole’s delicious juices.

Brunch and Potluck Ideas

• Serve alongside quiche or frittata for a sweet-and-savory brunch spread.
• Bring it to potlucks—it’s always a hit and easy to transport.

Expert Tips for the Best Pineapple Casserole

Want to make this Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe even better? Try these tips:

🔹 Cheese Variations

• Mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a milder flavor
• Pepper Jack for a spicy kick
• Vegan cheese for a dairy-free version

🔹 Topping Alternatives

• Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
• Crushed pretzels or cornflakes for a different texture
• Brown sugar + cinnamon for a sweeter twist

🔹 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with ham or glazed turkey for a holiday feast
• Serve alongside roasted chicken or pork chops
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like version

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories	280 kcal
Sugar	25g
Sodium	340mg
Fat	17g
Carbs	32g
Protein	6g

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure to drain excess juice to prevent a soggy casserole.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

❓ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

❓ Can I freeze pineapple casserole?

Yes! Freeze unbaked for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Pineapple Casserole Recipe is a unique, flavorful, and foolproof dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or a casual family meal, its sweet, cheesy, and crunchy layers make it an unforgettable side.