Pineapple Bake – The Sweet-Savory Retro Dish That Always Surprises People

Pineapple Bake is one of those old-school recipes that shows up at potlucks, holiday tables, and Sunday dinners — and somehow everyone has the same reaction: “Wait… what is this? And why is it so good?”

It’s warm, buttery, sweet, and a little savory all at once. Juicy pineapple, melted cheese, a soft custardy middle, and a golden buttery topping that tastes like the best part of a casserole and a dessert had a baby.

It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t look fancy — but it disappears fast.

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Pineapple Bake Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks (drained) or crushed pineapple (well-drained)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (about 30–35), crushed (Ritz-style)

• ½ cup butter, melted

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Instructions

1) Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2) Mix the Pineapple Base

1. In a large bowl, mix sugar and flour.

2. Stir in beaten eggs.

3. Add drained pineapple and shredded cheddar. Mix until combined.

3) Assemble

1. Pour pineapple mixture into the baking dish.

2. In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter.

3. Sprinkle cracker topping evenly over the pineapple mixture.

4) Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.

5) Cool & Serve

Let sit 10 minutes before serving (it sets up slightly).

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Why This Recipe Works

• Pineapple brings sweet, juicy brightness

• Cheddar adds a salty, tangy contrast

• The egg/flour mixture creates a soft custardy bake

• Buttery crackers make a golden, crunchy top

It’s sweet-salty comfort food at its best.

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Tips for the Best Pineapple Bake

• Drain pineapple well (too much juice makes it watery)

• Use sharp cheddar — mild cheese gets lost

• Crush crackers to medium crumbs (not dust) for best crunch

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer flavor (optional)

• Serve warm for maximum cozy factor

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How to Serve Pineapple Bake

This dish is famous because it fits anywhere:

• As a side dish with ham

• Alongside roast chicken or pork

• At brunch with eggs

• As a sweet casserole at holidays

• Or honestly… as dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

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FAQ – Pineapple Bake Recipe

Is pineapple bake a side dish or dessert?

Both! Many people serve it as a side with ham, but it’s sweet enough to be dessert too.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake fresh.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze pineapple bake?

You can freeze it, but the cracker topping may soften. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.