Easy Cheesy Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Cheesy Southern Pineapple Casserole combines sweet pineapple chunks with sharp cheddar cheese and a buttery cracker topping for a unique, comforting side dish. Popular in Southern kitchens, it’s a surprisingly delicious mix of savory and sweet, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight meals. Its simple preparation and bold flavor make it a standout addition to any table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

canned pineapple chunks (drained)crushed pineapple (drained)sharp cheddar cheesegranulated sugarsaltall-purpose flourbutter (melted)Ritz crackers (crushed)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple.

Add the sugar, salt, and flour to the pineapple mixture and stir until well combined.

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until fully coated.

Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Substitute half the cheddar with Monterey Jack for a creamier finish.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Use gluten-free crackers and flour for a gluten-free version.

Top with chopped pecans for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure it’s chopped and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is traditional and gives the best contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it. Add the cracker topping just before baking.

Is this served as a dessert or side dish?

It’s typically served as a side dish, especially at holiday meals.

Can I freeze pineapple casserole?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the cracker topping for up to 1 month.

Can I make it less sweet?

Yes, reduce the sugar by half or omit it entirely depending on your preference.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, kids often enjoy the cheesy and slightly sweet combination.

Why does cheese work with pineapple?

The tangy sharpness of cheddar balances the sweet acidity of pineapple, creating a rich flavor contrast.

Can I add ham or bacon?

Yes, chopped cooked ham or crumbled bacon makes it a heartier dish.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

Butter crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes can work as a topping.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Southern Pineapple Casserole is a charming Southern classic that wins hearts with its unexpected combination of sweet, salty, and cheesy flavors. Simple to prepare and always a conversation starter, it’s a versatile dish that fits just as well on a holiday table as it does at a casual family dinner. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a memorable favorite.

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