There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and this Southern Pineapple Casserole is the perfect example. Picture warm, juicy pineapple baked with a buttery, cheesy topping that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes and savor the moment. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it at a holiday dinner, or just treating yourself to some serious comfort food, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love Southern Pineapple Casserole

Name: Southern Pineapple Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cans (20 ounces each) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 6 tablespoons of juice); 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese; 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (about 1¾ cups crushed); ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: This casserole works as a side dish, a dessert, or even a potluck favorite. It’s the ultimate Southern classic that fits any occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like canned pineapple, cheese, and crackers, this dish is both affordable and delicious.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a simple baking process, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.

Customizable: Want to add some extra crunch? Toss in some pecans. Prefer a sharper cheese? Go for extra-sharp cheddar. You can make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Southern Pineapple Casserole

Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Pineapple Chunks: The star of the show! Juicy, sweet pineapple brings a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery topping.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The sharper, the better! The tangy, creamy cheddar melts into the pineapple, creating an irresistible flavor combination.

Crushed Butter Crackers: Buttery, crispy crackers add the perfect crunch on top, balancing the softness of the pineapple and cheese.

Granulated Sugar: Just a touch enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple and ties everything together.

All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the casserole slightly, ensuring a perfect texture in every bite.

Unsalted Butter: Melted and mixed into the topping for a golden, rich finish.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your casserole the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the pineapple chunks with sugar and flour. Stir until the pineapple is well coated. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleaning up a breeze later on.

Assemble the Dish: Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, ensuring full coverage. Then, top everything with crushed butter crackers for that signature crunch.

Cook to Perfection: Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors settle. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but a brief cooling period makes a big difference.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.

Notes

Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Southern Pineapple Casserole

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve alongside baked ham or roasted chicken for a sweet and savory contrast.
Pair with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness.
Enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use fresh pineapple if you prefer a more natural taste, but make sure to drain excess juice to avoid a watery casserole.
Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F to maintain the crispy topping.
Try using gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version of this dish.

FAQS

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Southern Pineapple Casserole?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake as directed.

What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to mix in your favorites!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy casserole.

Is this a dessert or a side dish?
Both! It pairs well with savory dishes but is sweet enough to be a dessert.

Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes! Some people add cooked ham or bacon for extra savoriness.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar or use a sharper cheese to balance out the flavors.

What can I substitute for butter crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes work well as alternatives.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and crackers to make a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Southern Pineapple Casserole is one of those unexpected delights that never fails to impress. The sweet, tangy pineapple combined with melty cheddar and a buttery, crunchy topping is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to bring a little extra comfort and joy to your table. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!

Southern Pineapple Casserole

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Southern Pineapple Casserole is a classic Southern dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of sharp Cheddar cheese, all topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. This unique blend of flavors makes it a beloved side dish, especially popular during holiday gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 cans (20 ounces each) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 6 tablespoons of juice)
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 sleeve buttery round crackers (about 1 3/4 cups crushed)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Mix Pineapple Base: In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, reserved pineapple juice, sugar, and flour. Stir until the pineapple is evenly coated.
Add Cheese Layer: Transfer the pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are well-coated.
Assemble Casserole: Evenly spread the cracker mixture over the cheese layer.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Variations: Some recipes suggest adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cracker topping for added warmth and flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the topping’s crunch.