1-First Step: Preheat and prepare the dish Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray so the casserole releases easily after baking. This step matters because the filling becomes sticky as it cooks, and a well-greased dish makes serving much easier. If you are making the recipe ahead of time, you can prep the baking dish early and set it aside.

2-Second Step: Mix the pineapple base In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks, the 2 tablespoons of reserved juice, sugar, and flour. Stir until the pineapple is evenly coated. The flour helps thicken the filling, while the reserved juice keeps the mix from becoming too dry. If you are using brown sugar, the flavor will be a little deeper and more caramel-like, which many people love in a southern pineapple casserole.

3-Third Step: Add the cheddar cheese Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is spread through the pineapple mixture. This is the part that gives the casserole its signature sweet and savory style. The cheese melts into the fruit during baking, so do not worry if the mixture looks unusual before it goes into the oven. That bold contrast is exactly what makes an easy pineapple casserole so special.

4-Fourth Step: Transfer to the baking dish Spoon the pineapple and cheese mixture into the prepared 3-quart baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. A level surface helps the topping bake evenly, so every serving gets a little crunch. If you want to add extras like halved cherries for color or diced mango for sweetness, fold them in gently before transferring the mixture.

5-Fifth Step: Make the cracker topping In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. The butter helps the topping turn crisp and golden, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring warm flavor that fits both holiday meals and everyday suppers. You can use buttery crackers or other similar crackers if that is what you have in the pantry.

6-Sixth Step: Add the topping and bake Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the pineapple filling. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The casserole should look slightly set in the center but still moist. If your oven runs hot, start checking around the 25-minute mark so the topping does not brown too quickly.

7-Final Step: Rest and serve Let the pineapple casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This short rest helps the filling settle, so each scoop holds together better on the plate. Serve it warm next to holiday ham, smoked ham, oven-baked ham, or turkey. It also goes nicely with a side like green bean casserole, especially when you are building a big holiday spread.