Discover the ultimate pineapple casserole recipe! Sweet, savory, and easy to make, this Southern classic is perfect as a side dish or dessert for any occasion.
Course Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine Southern Comfort Food
Keyword Best pineapple casserole recipe, Easy pineapple casserole recipe, Pineapple casserole recipe, Pineapple casserole with cream cheese
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time 30 minutesminutes
Total Time 40 minutesminutes
Servings 6Servings
Calories 350kcal
Author C. Sophie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple
Choose canned pineapple packed in juicenot syrup, for a perfectly balanced sweetness.
1 cup granulated sugar
Provides the right amount of sweetness to complement the tangy pineapple. For a deeper flavortry using brown sugar.
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Helps thicken the casseroleensuring a creamy, cohesive texture.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
The star of the dishadding a rich, savory contrast to the sweet pineapple. Sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor.
1 cup buttery crackers (about 25 crackers)
Crushed and used as a topping for that classicbuttery crunch. Ritz crackers are a popular choice.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Drizzled over the crackers to enhance their goldencrispy texture.
Optional Add-Ins
Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened)
Adds a creamy richness for a slightly more decadent casserole.
Cinnamon or Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon)
For a warmspiced flavor that enhances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Chopped Pecans (1/2 cup)
Sprinkle on top with the cracker crumbs for a nuttycrunchy twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
This ensures even baking, allowing the casserole to achieve a bubbly, golden topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2 cans (20 oz each) of crushed pineapple (drained thoroughly).
1 cup granulated sugar.
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated to avoid clumps.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Mix until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the pineapple mixture, creating a sweet and savory blend.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Pour the pineapple and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Prepare the Cracker Topping
In a medium bowl, combine:
1 cup of crushed buttery crackers (about 25 crackers).
1/2 cup melted unsalted butter.
Stir until the crackers are evenly coated in butter.
Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pineapple layer, ensuring full coverage for a crunchy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cinnamon (optional) for a finishing touch.