Name: Pineapple Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained; 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in one delicious dish
Quick and easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
A hit at both holiday tables and casual meals
Versatile: works as a side dish or a dessert
Can be made ahead and reheated without losing flavor

ingredients

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

Canned pineapple chunks, drained
Canned crushed pineapple, drained
Granulated sugar or brown sugar
All-purpose flour
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Buttery round crackers, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine drained pineapple chunks and crushed pineapple.
Stir in the sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple mixture.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the sweetness
Replace crackers with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
Mix in a bit of cream cheese for a creamier texture
Add chopped pecans to the topping for a nutty twist

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through
Microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become soggy

FAQs

What type of pineapple should I use?

Use a combination of crushed and chunk pineapple for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to chop it finely and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Is it a dessert or a side dish?

It’s both! It pairs well with savory dishes but is sweet enough to enjoy as a dessert.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it before serving.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly shredded cheddar melts better and gives a richer flavor.

What type of crackers work best?

Buttery round crackers like Ritz are ideal for their flavor and texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free flour substitute.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Add the cracker topping just before baking and avoid covering during storage.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. Adjust the sugar to your taste, or use a sugar substitute if preferred.

How long do leftovers last?

Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers will last up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Pineapple Casserole is a comforting and unexpected dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to surprise guests with something different or simply want a new side dish to add to your rotation, this sweet and savory bake is sure to become a favorite.