Pineapple Casserole Recipe | Aunt Sandy's Kitchen

Name: Pineapple Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained; 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice); 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 to 1 cup white sugar, or to taste; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice; 40 buttery round crackers, crushed; 1/2 cup butter, melted

Pineapple Casserole

... from Aunt Sandy's Kitchen

Serves: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking: 40 minutes

Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern side dish that combines sweet pineapple, sharp Cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping in one warm and comforting bake. It may sound unusual at first, but the balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp flavors is exactly why this old-fashioned casserole has stayed a holiday favorite for generations.

This easy pineapple casserole recipe comes together with simple pantry ingredients and bakes until bubbly and golden. It is perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner, potlucks, and Sunday meals, and it pairs especially well with ham, pork, chicken, and other savory main dishes.

🛒 Ingredients

1 (20 ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve ¼ cup of juice)
2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
½ to 1 cup white sugar, or to taste
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup reserved pineapple juice
40 buttery round crackers, crushed
½ cup butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Drain the pineapple tidbits, reserving ¼ cup of the juice for the recipe. Discard the remaining juice or save it for another use.
In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple tidbits and the reserved ¼ cup pineapple juice.
Add the drained crushed pineapple, shredded Cheddar cheese, sugar, and flour. Stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers and melted butter until coated. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the pineapple mixture.
Bake until hot and golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Drain the pineapple well so the casserole does not turn watery.
Start with ½ cup sugar if you prefer a less sweet casserole, then adjust the next time to suit your taste.
Sharp Cheddar gives the best contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
Crush the crackers into small crumbs for a more even buttery topping.
This casserole is best served warm and pairs especially well with baked ham.
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and add the cracker topping just before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does pineapple casserole taste like?

Pineapple casserole has a sweet and savory flavor with juicy pineapple, sharp Cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. The mix of flavors is classic Southern comfort food and especially popular with ham dinners.

Can I make pineapple casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the pineapple filling in advance and refrigerate it in the baking dish. Add the cracker and butter topping just before baking for the best texture.

Do I have to use sharp Cheddar cheese?

Sharp Cheddar is traditional because it balances the sweetness of the pineapple, but mild or medium Cheddar can also be used if that is what you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pineapple casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What goes well with pineapple casserole?

Pineapple casserole is especially good with ham, pork loin, roasted chicken, turkey, and holiday dinner spreads. It also fits well on potluck and church supper menus.

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