If you have a soft spot for comforting dishes that bring a delightful twist to the table, this Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine a warm, golden casserole where sweet, juicy pineapple meets sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped up with a buttery, crunchy cracker topping. It’s a nostalgic Southern classic that’s as easy to make as it is addictive to eat. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that iconic rich, sweet, and savory combo that makes this dish unforgettable. These ingredients come together seamlessly to create a comforting texture and a vibrant flavor profile that’s truly special.
- Crushed pineapple (2 cans, 20 oz each): Sweet and tangy, it’s the star ingredient providing juicy bursts of flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple, making every bite satisfyingly rich.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Acts as a thickening agent to help set the casserole just right.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and deepens the overall taste.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Bind the ingredients and add a fluffy, tender texture.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Offers that classic Southern tang and creamy richness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted, plus 1/4 cup for topping): Brings luscious moisture and a golden finish on top.
- Crushed buttery crackers (1 cup): Provides a crispy, buttery topping that perfectly complements the soft casserole beneath.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to ensure the casserole won’t stick and will come out easily once baked.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and the beaten eggs. Stir everything until well combined; this mixture forms the luscious base of the casserole.
Step 3: Add Cheese & Butter
Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and melted butter. This step brings creamy richness and that savory punch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.
Step 4: Pour into Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out so it bakes uniformly, ensuring every bite has a perfect balance of the flavorful filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Mix the crushed crackers with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter in a small bowl until the crackers are thoroughly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the pineapple mixture, adding a delightful crunch to your casserole.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a lovely golden brown and the filling bubbles invitingly around the edges.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy this dish warm or at room temperature, and either way, it’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory comfort.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of fresh brightness, garnish your casserole with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a few green onion slices. These add a subtle pop of color and a little freshness that complements the richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs exquisitely with classic Southern sides like collard greens, baked ham, or creamy mashed potatoes. The sweet and cheesy flavors balance savory meats and hearty greens perfectly, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve the Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. You can also sprinkle some toasted pecans on top of the cracker crust before baking to add an extra nutty crunch that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for enjoying leftovers that taste just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled casserole securely in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping ahead for holidays or busy weeknights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through and the topping is crisp again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method best preserves the crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for the Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain fresh pineapple chunks very well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the casserole’s texture. Crushed fresh pineapple can add a bright, natural sweetness that’s delightful.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cheese and butter?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter alternatives. Look for a sharp cheddar-style vegan cheese to keep that signature tang and use coconut oil or vegan butter to maintain richness and crispness in the topping.
Can I make this Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate. Then add the cracker topping just before baking to keep it crunchy, and bake when ready—perfect for easing your day-of prep.
What type of crackers work best for the topping?
Buttery crackers like Ritz are the classic choice because they add a rich flavor and crisp texture. Saltines also work well if you prefer a lighter, less buttery crunch. Either way, crushing them finely helps the topping spread evenly.
Can I add nuts or coconut to the casserole?
Yes! Adding chopped pecans or shredded coconut can elevate the texture and flavor. Toast nuts lightly for added crunch and mix them into the cracker topping or sprinkle them on top before baking for a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but special enough for holiday celebrations. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and experience the harmonious blend of sweet pineapple, sharp cheddar, and buttery crunch that makes this casserole so beloved. Your family and friends are going to love it just as much as I do!
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Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Southern Pineapple Casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors featuring crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. Baked to golden perfection, it serves as a perfect side dish or a comforting dessert that’s popular in Southern cuisine. With a luscious, creamy texture and a crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
Main 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
- 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, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and beaten eggs until well combined to create the base mixture.
- Add Cheese & Butter: Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the melted butter into the pineapple mixture, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the prepared mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with 1/4 cup melted butter until all the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve & Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking to set. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or dessert.
Notes
- Drain the pineapple thoroughly to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor contrast with the sweet pineapple.
- Buttery crackers like Ritz work well for the topping, but saltines can be used as an alternative.
- This dish is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to avoid sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
