This Southern Pineapple Casserole is a sweet and savory dish that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy dance. With the natural sweetness of pineapple, the richness of cheese, and the crunchy topping, this casserole strikes the perfect balance of flavors. It’s a fun, unexpected combination, but trust me, it’s a game-changer! Whether you serve it at a family gathering, holiday dinner, or just as a comforting side, this dish will steal the show.
Why You’ll Love Southern Pineapple Casserole
This isn’t your typical casserole. It’s a bold mix of flavors that’s going to surprise and delight you in the best way possible. Here’s why it’s a crowd favorite:
- Sweet & Savory Perfection: The sweetness of pineapple paired with the savory cheese and buttery cracker topping is a flavor combination that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this casserole proves that sometimes, the best meals come from a few simple pantry staples.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: It’s a little different from your average casserole, but that’s what makes it so special! It’s comforting, but with a little extra excitement.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a potluck, or a Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients
Let’s take a look at what goes into this mouthwatering casserole:
- Pineapple: The sweet, juicy base that gives this dish its signature flavor. You’ll want to use canned crushed pineapple or pineapple chunks, drained well.
- Cheddar Cheese: A classic Southern combo—cheddar adds a rich, savory contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Butter: Adds richness to the casserole and helps create a golden, crispy topping.
- Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.
- Flour: Helps bind everything together and gives the casserole structure.
- Eggs: They add texture and help the casserole set as it bakes.
- Crushed Butter Crackers: These are key for the crispy, buttery topping that gives the dish an irresistible crunch.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Southern Pineapple Casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pineapple: Drain the canned pineapple well to remove excess liquid. This step is key to preventing a soggy casserole.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple, sugar, flour, eggs, and melted butter. Stir well until everything is combined.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, crush the butter crackers and mix them with a little melted butter to create the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful mix of sweet and savory goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Casserole
This Southern Pineapple Casserole is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Here are a few ideas to serve it with:
- As a Side Dish: It’s a great addition to any holiday meal, especially with ham, turkey, or roasted meats.
- With Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pork, or even burgers for a sweet-savory contrast.
- At Potlucks: Bring it to your next potluck or gathering, and watch it disappear in no time.
- For Breakfast or Brunch: This casserole is also perfect for a sweet breakfast or brunch spread, served alongside eggs or bacon.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day ahead of time. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Bake as instructed when you’re ready to serve.
- Canned vs. Fresh Pineapple: While canned pineapple is most commonly used, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer. Just be sure to chop it finely and drain it well.
- Topping Variations: If you want a different topping, consider using crushed pretzels or breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of sugar or skip it altogether, as the pineapple already provides a good amount of sweetness.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use other fruits in this casserole?
A1: Absolutely! While pineapple is traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or apricots for a delicious twist.
Q2: Can I make this casserole without eggs?
A2: Yes! You can leave out the eggs or use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A5: Cheddar cheese is classic for this dish, but you can also try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Q6: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A6: Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the following day as directed.
Q7: Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?
A7: Yes! If you don’t have butter crackers, you can use Ritz crackers or any buttery crackers you like.
Q8: Is there a way to make this dish less sweet?
A8: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the sugar or skip it, as the pineapple will provide enough sweetness.
Q9: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A9: The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly and slightly set. You can also insert a toothpick to check for doneness.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Southern Pineapple Casserole is a delightful, unexpected dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in the most comforting way. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any meal that needs a little extra love, this casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with this Southern classic!
PrintSouthern Pineapple Casserole
This sweet and savory pineapple casserole is a Southern classic! The juicy pineapple, buttery crackers, and cheesy, golden topping make it perfect for pairing with ham, serving during holidays, or even enjoying as a fun dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 (20 oz) cans pineapple chunks, drained (reserve ½ cup juice)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
-
Prep the Oven & Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or use an 8×8 for a thicker casserole). -
Mix the Pineapple Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar. Stir in the pineapple chunks and reserved ½ cup pineapple juice. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is evenly combined. -
Pour into Dish:
Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish. -
Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling. -
Bake & Serve:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can use fresh pineapple if you prefer, but canned pineapple works great for this recipe!
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for an easy-to-prepare holiday dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg