This Pineapple Casserole recipe combines pineapple, cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and Ritz crackers for a tasty combination that brings out the flavors of the South!

pineapple casserole with a scoop taken out of it.

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Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe

Pineapple casserole is a popular sweet and savory dish that originated in the Southern United States. It features canned pineapple chunks, shredded cheese, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter.

Then, we sprinkle Ritz cracker crumbs on top, and bake until it’s golden and brown! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll get it. It’s so good.

You can serve pineapple cheese casserole as a side dish or as a desser. It really works for both. You know how apple pie is sometimes served with sharp cheddar cheese? It’s the same idea here.

The ingredients that make up this pineapple cheese casserole are simple, but the results are always delicious. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with savory melted cheese. Meanwhile, the buttery Ritz topping adds a richness that makes it hard to resist. It’s also a great way to use up the can of pineapple that’s been sitting in your pantry for the past year!

top down image of pineapple casserole.

Ingredients for Pineapple Casserole

To print: see recipe card below

ingredients to make pineapple casserole.
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar – Dark brown sugar works too, but it has a more pronounced molasses flavor.
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 (20-ounce) cans crushed pineapple – You can use tidbits instead, but don’t substitute chunks or rings! It won’t work out the same.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – A mild cheddar will melt best, while a sharp cheddar will have a stronger flavor. For the best taste and texture, buy a block of cheese, and grate it yourself.
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers – Or another variety of buttery crackers.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Melt this in a small saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl.

Variations

  • For a little bit more crunch, try adding ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the mix. 
  • Switch up the cheese by using Monterey Jack or Colby Jack instead of cheddar. 
  • Use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar.

Directions For How to Make Pineapple Casserole

  1. Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, coat an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Make the pineapple mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the pineapple and reserved juice. 
  3. Assemble: Spread the pineapple mixture in the baking dish, and top it with the cheddar cheese.
  4. Make the topping: In a small bowl, gently combine the crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle this over the cheese.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is warm throughout. 

Serving Suggestions:

A plate of pineapple casserole with a fork holding a bite.

How To Store + Reheat Leftover Pineapple Casserole

Quick Tip

If the cracker topping on your pineapple casserole starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the top with aluminum foil towards the end of the baking.

A baking dish of pineapple casserole with a serving missing.

Pineapple Casserole

Try this recipe for a classic pineapple casserole and enjoy the flavors of the South! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an easy, delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion.
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Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment

  • 1 8×8 baking dish
  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small mixing bowl

Ingredients  

  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • cup all purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 20 oz cans crushed pineapple, drained (reserve ⅓ cup of the juice)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted

Instructions 

  • Preheat an oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat an 8×8 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, set aside.
    Nonstick cooking spray
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Add the pineapple and reserved juice and stir together. Add to the baking dish and spread to the edges of the pan. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
    ½ cup light brown sugar, ⅓ cup all purpose flour, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, 2 20 oz cans crushed pineapple, drained (reserve ⅓ cup of the juice), 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • In a small bowl, gently mix together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Spread over the surface of the pineapples and cheese.
    1 sleeve Ritz crackers, ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and warm throughout. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the top with aluminum foil towards the end of the baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 331kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 356mg | Potassium: 227mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 461IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 199mg | Iron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @kasey_allthingsmamma or tag #allthingsmamma!

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About Kasey Schwartz

For over 15 years, Kasey Schwartz, the mastermind behind All Things Mamma, has been the ultimate go-to for mouthwatering family recipes. Her work has been featured on Today.com, Buzz Feed, Better Homes and Gardens, and more, making her your go-to mom next door for all things delicious and family-friendly.

Comments

  1. Robbie Bell says:

    This receipe is amazing

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