The Sweet Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe Everyone Loves

Southern comfort shines through this pineapple casserole that combines sweet and savory flavors in one irresistible dish.

Cheesy chunks melt perfectly against tropical fruit notes.

Midwestern kitchens have nothing on this southern classic that promises pure culinary magic.

Grandmothers across southern states understand how simple ingredients create extraordinary meals.

Creamy textures and unexpected combinations make you crave every single bite.

Cheese and pineapple dance together in a harmony that defies traditional side dish expectations.

Come experience a recipe that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.

FAQs

• What is the origin of Southern Pineapple Casserole?

This dish is a classic Southern comfort food that originated in the Southern United States, particularly popular in states like Georgia and South Carolina, where sweet and savory combinations are beloved in traditional cooking.

• Is this recipe considered a side dish or a dessert?

Southern Pineapple Casserole is typically served as a side dish, often accompanying ham or other main courses during holiday meals and family gatherings, though its sweet profile can blur the line between side dish and dessert.

• Why do Southern recipes often combine cheese with sweet ingredients?

Southern cuisine is known for its unique flavor combinations, where sweet and savory elements are often blended to create complex and surprising taste profiles that reflect the region’s diverse culinary heritage.

Southern Pineapple Casserole: Reasons to Love This Dish

• Surprise Sweet-Savory Twist: Discover a delightful combination of tangy pineapple, rich cheese, and buttery cracker topping that creates an unexpected flavor explosion.
• Perfect Southern Comfort Dish: Enjoy a classic side that brings warmth and nostalgia, capturing the essence of traditional Southern cooking with its simple yet delicious ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potluck Star: Wow guests at gatherings with this unique casserole that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory elements, making it a guaranteed conversation starter.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: Create a mouthwatering dish with minimal cooking skills, using basic ingredients and straightforward steps that even beginner cooks can master with confidence.

Ingredients Needed for Southern Pineapple Casserole

• Pineapple Chunks: Sweet tropical fruit that creates the base of this classic Southern casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the dish.
• Crackers: Provides a crunchy and buttery topping for the casserole.

• Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple.
• Flour: Helps thicken the pineapple mixture and create a cohesive texture.

• Butter, Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Used for greasing the baking dish and coating the cracker topping.
• Pineapple Juice: Adds extra moisture and intensifies the pineapple flavor.

How to Prepare Southern Pineapple Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Container

Grab a 2-quart baking dish and coat it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create Pineapple Base

• Drained pineapple chunks
• Pineapple juice
• Sugar
• Flour

Stir everything together until the pineapple is completely coated with the sweet mixture.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly across the top.

Step 5: Make Crunchy Topping

• Crushed crackers
• Melted butter

Blend until the cracker crumbs are fully coated and look slightly damp.

Step 6: Top the Casserole

Spread the buttery cracker mixture over the cheese layer, creating an even, crunchy surface.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that signal it’s ready.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes to set. This helps it hold together when serving and prevents burning your mouth.

Tips for Achieving Perfect Southern Pineapple Casserole

• Choose fresh, sweet pineapple chunks for the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness in your casserole.
• Ensure pineapple chunks are well-drained to prevent excess liquid from making the casserole soggy and maintain a perfect texture.
• Use sharp Cheddar cheese for a more intense, tangy flavor that complements the sweet pineapple beautifully.
• Crush Ritz crackers finely for an even, golden-brown topping that adds delightful crispness to the casserole.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make serving easier.

Creative Twists to Try with Southern Pineapple Casserole

• Tropical Coconut Casserole: Replace Cheddar cheese with shredded coconut and add toasted macadamia nuts for a Hawaiian-inspired version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free crackers and gluten-free flour to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Pineapple Bake: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast, use vegan butter, and replace crackers with dairy-free breadcrumbs for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar amount or use a sugar substitute like stevia, and incorporate Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

Best Pairings with Southern Pineapple Casserole

Pair the Southern Pineapple Casserole with honey-glazed ham to enhance the dish’s sweet and tangy flavor profile, creating a delightful balance of taste sensations.

Select a chilled Riesling or Gewürztraminer to cut through the richness of the cheese and complement the pineapple’s tropical sweetness, providing a refreshing counterpoint.

Add a creamy, crunchy coleslaw as a side dish to contrast the casserole’s soft texture and provide a cool, crisp element to the meal.

Combine the casserole with tender pulled pork to create a classic Southern-style plate that highlights the dish’s unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Guidelines to Keep Southern Pineapple Casserole Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the casserole fresh and preventing moisture loss.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or aluminum foil, storing for maximum 2 months to preserve texture and flavor.
• Warm individual portions for 30-45 seconds on medium power, stirring halfway to ensure even heating and prevent cold spots.
• Restore crispy topping by placing casserole in a 350F oven for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent burning and maintain moisture.

Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Comfort meets tropical sweetness in this Southern pineapple casserole, blending creamy cheese and buttery crackers into a delightful side dish. Cheesy, crunchy, and irresistibly rich, you’ll savor each delectable bite of this classic Southern comfort classic.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cans (20 ounces / 567 grams) pineapple chunks, drained
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Supporting Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 6 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice

Topping:

• 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (about 1 3/4 cups / 219 grams crushed)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
2. Thoroughly coat a 2-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, gently fold together drained pineapple chunks, reserved juice, sugar, and flour until the fruit is uniformly coated.
4. Pour the pineapple mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
5. Generously sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese across the entire surface of the pineapple mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter, tossing until the crumbs are completely saturated and glossy.
7. Distribute the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the cheese layer, creating a golden, textured topping.
8. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a rich golden-brown crust and bubbling edges.
9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to settle and the dish to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent watery casserole and ensure a perfect texture.
• Use room temperature cheese for smoother melting and even distribution across the dish.
• Experiment with different cracker types like Ritz or graham crackers for varied crunch and flavor profiles.
• Consider reducing sugar for a less sweet version or using low-fat cheese for a lighter alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 393
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg