What is in pineapple casserole?

Traditional pineapple casserole includes a mix of pineapple (crushed and chunked) , butter , sugar , and a crunchy topping made from crackers or bread crumbs. The version without cheese eliminates the cheddar, letting the natural sweetness and acidity of pineapple take center stage. In dairy-free versions, plant-based butter and gluten-free crumbs can be used to accommodate various diets.

Why do you put pineapple in cottage cheese?

This combination may sound strange, but it’s a nostalgic dish in many American households. Pineapple adds natural sweetness and tartness to balance the salty, creamy flavor of cottage cheese. However, in casseroles like pineapple casserole without cheese , cottage cheese is rarely used; instead, pineapple is paired with bread or crackers to create texture and structure.

How to cook cinnamon pineapple in the oven?

Baking cinnamon pineapple is simple and aromatic. Just layer pineapple chunks , sprinkle with ground cinnamon and brown sugar , and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes . You can drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra caramelization. This makes a fantastic topping for oatmeal, pancakes, or a sweet side to your casserole meal. You can incorporate a cinnamon-pineapple base into your cheese-free pineapple casserole to add warmth and depth without dairy.

Where did pineapple casserole originate?

Pineapple casserole is a Southern classic , thought to have originated in the mid-20th century. It rose in popularity during the canned fruit boom and became a staple at church potlucks and family dinners . Traditionally made with pineapple and cheese, regional variations have since emerged, many without cheese, especially as dietary trends shift toward vegan and dairy-free options. For a modern take on this legacy dish, explore our best pineapple casserole version that can be adapted with or without cheese.

How to Prepare a Delicious Pineapple Casserole Without Cheese

Description

Looking for a lighter, cheese-free twist on the classic Southern pineapple casserole? This version skips the cheddar but keeps all the warm, sweet, and buttery flavor. It’s simple, comforting, and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free with a few swaps. Great as a side dish or a fruity dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
¼ cup melted butter or vegan butter

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium casserole dish.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine crushed pineapple, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, flour, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir well.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the filling into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Add the Topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the pineapple filling.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Cool & Serve: Let rest for about 10 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

To make it vegan, use vegan butter and ensure crackers are dairy-free.
For gluten-free, use GF flour and gluten-free crackers.
Serve as a side dish or a simple warm dessert with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Southern Comfort

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 260
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: pineapple casserole no cheese, dairy-free pineapple casserole, gluten-free pineapple bake, southern pineapple side, easy fruit casserole