Pineapple Casserole

Like Hawaiian pizza or pineapple-glazed ham, a pineapple casserole recipe is a sweet-and-savory dream. The unusual combination of canned crushed and chunk pineapple, cheddar cheese and Ritz crackers almost sounds as if it shouldn’t work, but it does and to amazing results. Just a bite of the tart tropical fruit, tangy cheese and salty, buttery cracker crust will win over any skeptic.

It’s hard to say where exactly pineapple cheese casserole originated, but it’s believed to have come about during the 1950s when both casseroles and canned fruit grew in popularity.

You’ll see this creamy, crunchy comfort food recipe served as a southern side dish with baked ham or roast turkey during Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, but some folks lean on the sweeter side of the baked pineapple casserole and serve it as an appetizer or a dessert. However you choose to enjoy it, the taste and texture of our pineapple and cheese casserole will impress (and maybe even surprise) your family or guests at brunch, a holiday dinner or a backyard picnic.

Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole

• Pineapple: Unsweetened crushed pineapple and pineapple chunks provide a tangy, juicy base for the cheesy pineapple casserole, adding a burst of tropical flavor without extra sweetness. Save the drained juice for a pina colada later.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Splurge on a high-quality aged sharp cheddar. For the best texture, grate your own cheese fresh from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses typically contain anti-caking additives that prevent them from melting smoothly.
• Sugar: White granulated sugar brings the sweetness to this unique sweet-and-savory recipe for pineapple casserole.
• Flour: All-purpose flour turns the sugar and pineapple juices into a cohesive, flavorful filling.
• Ritz crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers create a buttery, crispy topping for the pineapple casserole recipe. Place the crackers in a resealable storage bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a coarser texture, or use a food processor for a finer texture. Could you use another type of cracker? You could, but the buttery, salty, flaky Ritz are traditional in a pineapple cheese casserole.
• Butter: Melted butter binds the crushed crackers together to make a rich, golden topping for the baked pineapple casserole.

Directions

Step 1: Make the pineapple and cheese casserole filling

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour, then stir in the cheese. Add both cans of drained pineapple, and mix everything until well combined.

Step 2: Add the topping

Transfer the pineapple mixture to a greased 1-1/2-quart baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the Ritz crackers and melted butter. Then, evenly sprinkle the topping over the cheesy pineapple casserole.

Step 3: Bake the casserole

Bake the pineapple cheese casserole, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and the cheese melts. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes.

Editor’s Tip: Let the casserole stand for at least 10 minutes to allow it to set up properly. Digging in when it’s too hot means you’ll be scooping an oozy mess.

Recipe Variations

• Try some spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crushed Ritz crackers for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the sweet and savory flavors of our recipe for pineapple casserole.
• Give it some crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts with the cracker topping to add a nutty crunch and extra depth to the pineapple casserole recipe.
• Layer with a different cheese: For an even creamier texture, add a layer of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese between the pineapple mixture and the cracker topping.

How to Store Pineapple Casserole

Allow your pineapple cheese casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Pineapple and cheese casserole also freezes well (see below).

How long does pineapple casserole last?

Baked pineapple casserole will last four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven to retain its crispy topping or in the microwave for convenience, though the topping may soften with the latter.

Can you freeze pineapple casserole?

Like many freezer casseroles, you can freeze cheesy pineapple casserole either baked or unbaked. To freeze an unbaked pineapple casserole, assemble the ingredients through Step 2, but do not add the cracker topping. Wrap the dish tightly and freeze it for up to three months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, add the cracker topping and bake as directed in Step 3.

To freeze a baked pineapple cheese casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer-safe container for the same duration. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven.

Can you make pineapple casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the recipe for pineapple casserole up to 24 hours in advance, but it’s best to wait to add the cracker topping until just before baking to ensure it stays crisp. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with storage wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed.

Pineapple Casserole Tips

Can you use fresh pineapple for pineapple casserole?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple for this pineapple casserole recipe. Just cut it into small chunks and thoroughly drain it to remove excess moisture. Fresh pineapple may add a slightly different texture and a more vibrant flavor than canned pineapple.

What can I do if the topping isn’t getting crispy?

If the topping on your pineapple and cheese casserole isn’t crisping up, place the casserole under the broiler for the last few minutes of baking and watch it closely to prevent burning.

What can you serve with pineapple casserole?

Baked pineapple casserole is often served alongside baked ham, roast chicken or turkey, where its sweet and tangy flavors complement the meat’s saltiness. As a summer dish, it also pairs well with grilled pork chops or slow-cooker country-style ribs. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a simple green vegetable like air-fryer green beans or asparagus.