If you’re searching for a comforting side dish that perfectly blends sweet, savory, and crispy all in one bite, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe. This classic Southern staple brings together the juicy brightness of crushed pineapple with the sharp tang of cheddar cheese and the buttery crunch of a cracker topping, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. It’s quick to prepare yet impressive enough for holiday gatherings or casual family dinners, making it a beloved dish you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe is delightfully simple, relying on just a handful of pantry staples and fresh elements. Each ingredient plays a special role, from lending sweetness and moisture to introducing richness and that buttery, crunchy finish you’ll adore.
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained: The juicy star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a bit of tartness that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds a balanced sweetness that enhances the pineapple without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to bind the ingredients together, giving the casserole its lovely texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just enough to bring out the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Important for structure and a silky consistency.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This delivers a bold, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the pineapple’s sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Richness that infuses into the custard-like base and keeps it moist.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or saltines): The secret to that irresistible crunchy topping that keeps this casserole fun to eat.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping): Melts into the cracker topping, creating golden, savory crispness.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray is key to an easy release and a perfect crust along the edges.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the drained pineapple, granulated sugar, flour, salt, and beaten eggs. Mixing these well ensures even sweetness and texture throughout the casserole base.
Step 3: Add Cheese & Butter
Next, stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and the melted butter until everything is fully combined. This is when the casserole starts to develop its signature creamy and cheesy flavor foundation.
Step 4: Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. A smooth, flat surface will help the cracker topping bake evenly and look inviting.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, toss the crushed crackers with the remaining 1/4 cup melted butter until every crumb is coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of your casserole—this topping will create that golden, delicious crunch you’ll love.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the casserole bubbles gently around the edges.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Allow your Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe to cool slightly before serving. It tastes amazing warm or even at room temperature, making it a wonderfully versatile side for any meal.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions brightens up the dish visually and adds a subtle fresh note that complements the rich flavors well.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with classic Southern staples like fried chicken, glazed ham, or roasted turkey. It also stands out alongside green beans, collard greens, or a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties. You can also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted pecans on top to introduce a new layer of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually meld even more after a day, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer leftovers to a freezer-safe container or wrap the whole casserole dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through and bubbly again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just be sure to finely crush or finely chop the fresh pineapple and drain any excess juice to avoid making the casserole too watery.
Is the cracker topping essential?
The cracker topping is what gives this casserole its signature crispy and buttery finish, but you can substitute it with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a delightful twist.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan butter to make a dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different but still tasty.
How sweet is the Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe?
It strikes a wonderful balance between sweet and savory, with the sugar and pineapple providing sweetness and the sharp cheddar adding a tangy contrast.
Can this casserole be served cold?
Yes! This casserole is versatile and tastes delicious warm or at room temperature, so serving it cold is an option, especially for potlucks or picnics.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t yet tried the Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe, you’re in for a treat that mixes nostalgic comfort with vibrant flavor. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly steals the show at any meal, and once you make it, I bet it’ll become one of your favorite go-tos as well. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and whip up something wonderfully Southern and sweet today!
Print
Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Southern Pineapple Casserole is a classic comfort dish featuring a sweet and tangy pineapple base combined with sharp cheddar cheese and topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. This easy-to-make casserole is baked to golden perfection and serves as a delightful side or dessert for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Cheese & Butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and beaten eggs. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Add Cheese & Butter: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and melted butter into the pineapple mixture until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to create an even layer.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter. Ensure the crackers are thoroughly coated with the butter. Then sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the pineapple well to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor contrast; however, mild cheddar can be used as a substitute.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free crackers for the topping.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set and be easier to slice.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.
