Pineapple Casserole

The Recipe’s Story

What is pineapple cheese casserole?

Pineapple cheese casserole is a classic Southern side dish that combines tropical pineapple with savory cheddar cheese and crackers. It may sound like an unusual combo if you’ve never tried it before, but it’s a dish with roots as far back as the 1900s. Many people grow up with this fruit casserole on their tables, and have passed down the recipe through generations, which is why it’s often called a Southern pineapple casserole. It’s still especially popular in the South as an easy pairing with ham for Easter or Christmas meals. It’s a comforting dish that will have you going back for seconds. 

Is this dish typically served as a dessert or a side dish?

While the name “pineapple casserole” might sound like a dessert, it’s most commonly served as a side dish. The savory ingredients in the recipe balance out the pineapple, and make this dish a perfect combination of savory and sweet. It also pairs really well with all different types of proteins: chicken, ham, turkey, bacon, etc. This versatility makes pineapple casserole an excellent addition to a meal!

What pairs well with pineapple casserole?

Pineapple cheese casserole’s sweet-and-savory combination makes it a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of other recipes. Try it with Simple Mustard Chicken with Peaches as your main dish. Or, for a main course that also uses pineapple, make this flavorful Honey Mustard Salmon with Tropical Fruit Salsa. For something that’s also sweet and savory, this Glazed Pineapple Hasselback Ham recipe is a great option. If you need an appetizer, Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple ties in the flavors perfectly as it also utilizes pineapple. Want another easy side dish? Try this Tangy Pineapple Sweet Potato Casserole to round out the meal.

Can this pineapple casserole be made as part of a plant-based or vegetarian meal?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for easy plant-based recipes, this dish can be adapted with just a couple of simple swaps. Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Many vegan cheddar options melt just as well and still give you that delicious cheesy flavor. The result is a delicious fruit side dish that’s perfect for a vegetarian spread or plant-based holiday table.

What’s the benefit of using DOLE^® Tropical Gold^® Chunks?

DOLE^® Tropical Gold^® Chunks are the ideal choice for this fruit casserole because they offer both convenience and quality in one package. You get two key ingredients in one can—pre-cut pineapple chunks and pineapple juice. No need to spend extra time chopping or juicing a fresh pineapple. DOLE^® Tropical Gold^® Chunks are also naturally sweeter, compared to our other canned pineapple options, which makes this dish extra flavorful. They are filled with all the deliciousness you find in whole pineapples, but SO much more convenient. Why spend more time prepping when you don’t have to?!

Enough just talking about it—let’s dive in and get started on making this delicious pineapple casserole recipe! Enjoy creating and don’t forget to share your photos of your creations with us using #Dole on social media!