Pineapple Ham Casserole

Pineapple Ham Casserole — A Joyful, Savory-Sweet Comfort Classic

Introduction (H2):
The first time I spooned a steaming scoop of Pineapple Ham Casserole onto my plate, the kitchen smelled like Sunday afternoons and well-loved family recipes. Warm pineapple-sweet steam rose and mixed with salty, caramelized ham and the buttery crust — a smell that wraps you like a quilt. Pineapple Ham Casserole is the kind of homemade dish that feels like a hug: familiar, comforting, and a little celebratory. Whether you need a simple dinner after work or an easy meal for a potluck, this comforting recipe delivers. While you let the casserole bake, you might find yourself humming the tune of a happy kitchen, just like when I bake my baked spaghetti casserole for friends.

Why Make This Pineapple Ham Casserole (H2):

• Comforting flavor with a surprising sweet and salty balance that makes it a family favorite.
• Quick prep using pantry staples and leftover ham — perfect for weeknights or festive cooking.
• Versatile ingredients: swap cheeses, use different breads, or make it low-fat with simple substitutions.
• Crowd-pleaser that travels well and reheats without losing its charm.
• Feels like a special occasion without the fuss — a delicious dessert-like sweetness paired with hearty protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need (H2):

• 3 cups diced ham — smoky or honey-glazed works beautifully; use leftover baked ham to save time.
• 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained — adds sweet brightness; use fresh pineapple for extra texture.
• 3 cups cubed day-old bread or crescent roll pieces — sturdy bread holds the custard; use gluten-free bread if needed.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese — sharp cheddar contrasts the pineapple; Monterey Jack or Swiss are good swaps.
• 3 large eggs — bind the casserole; for a lighter option, use 2 eggs and 1 cup Greek yogurt.
• 1 1/2 cups milk — whole milk gives richness; use oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar — warms the pineapple and creates a subtle caramel note; maple syrup works too.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard — brightens the custard; omit if serving kids who prefer milder flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and a pinch of salt — balance the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter — brush on top for a golden crust; use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish.

(Substitution note: if you want to add veggies, toss in 1 cup peas or diced bell pepper for color and a fresh bite. For a lower-sodium version, choose reduced-sodium ham and cheese.)

Prep and Cook Time (H2):

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35–40 minutes
• Total time: 50–55 minutes

Quick enough for a weeknight, rewarding like a slow-cooked meal. The prep is simple, but the aromas as it bakes are worth savoring.

How to Make Pineapple Ham Casserole (H2):

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Toss the cubed bread and diced ham in the dish so they are evenly distributed — the bread will soak up the pineapple-scented custard.
3. Scatter the drained crushed pineapple over the ham and bread, letting some pieces sink into the nooks for bursts of sweetness.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth — as you whisk, notice the glossy custard forming, promising a silky bake.
5. Stir half of the shredded cheddar into the custard, then pour the mixture evenly over the ham, bread, and pineapple. Press gently so the bread absorbs the custard.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and brush with melted butter to ensure a golden, tempting crust.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden, and set in the center — the edges will bubble slightly, releasing that lovely savory-sweet perfume.
8. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions or parsley and serve warm.

As you cut into it, the crisp top gives way to a tender, custardy interior where ham pockets meet pineapple jewels — every forkful sings comfort.

Tips and Creative Variations (H2):

• Add a crunchy topping: mix panko with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle on top in the last 10 minutes.
• Swap pineapple for peaches for a Southern twist, or use fresh mango for a tropical spin.
• Make it vegetarian: replace ham with smoked tofu or chickpeas seasoned with smoked paprika.
• Spice it up: a dash of cayenne or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
• Turn it into breakfast: fold in cooked breakfast sausage and swap cheddar for Swiss — serve with a side of fruit.

Serving Ideas (H2):
Serve this Pineapple Ham Casserole beside crisp green beans, a simple mixed salad, or buttery roasted carrots for a colorful plate. For drinks, a sparkling apple cider or a light white wine complements the sweet and salty flavors. Picture a cozy table, laughter, and a buffet-style spread where everyone helps themselves — this casserole fits right into family gatherings and holiday brunches.

Storing and Reheating (H2):

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 60–90 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
• Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.
• Tip: If reheating from frozen, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning; remove foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp.

Pro Tips for Success (H2):

1. Use day-old bread — it soaks up custard without becoming soggy.
2. Drain pineapple well to prevent excess moisture that can make the casserole watery.
3. Let it rest briefly after baking so the custard sets; serving too soon can make slices fall apart.
4. Experiment with cheese blends: a mix of sharp and creamy cheeses adds depth.
5. Keep a little extra cheese on hand — a cheesy top always delights kids and adults alike.

FAQs (H2):
Q: Can I freeze Pineapple Ham Casserole?
A: Yes. Freeze portions or the whole casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat covered at 350°F until hot.

Q: What can I use instead of ham?
A: Try cooked chicken, turkey, smoked tofu, or chickpeas for vegetarian versions. Leftover roasts work beautifully too.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a holiday table?
A: Absolutely — it’s festive cooking made simple. The sweet pineapple feels celebratory, and it pairs well with traditional sides.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.

Conclusion (H2):
There is something quietly magical about a Pineapple Ham Casserole — it turns leftovers into a centerpiece and everyday evenings into moments worth savoring. If you love the blend of sweet and savory or are looking for a comforting recipe that doubles as a festive family favorite, this dish is for you. For inspiration from similar comforting ham-and-pineapple ideas, you might enjoy this classic Ham and Pineapple Dinner Recipe, and for another trusted take on this casserole style, see this Pineapple Ham Casserole Recipe: How to Make It. Invite friends, set the table, and let the sweet-salty goodness do the rest — then tell me how it turned out.

Contents

• 1 Pineapple Ham Casserole
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
    • 1.1.1 Main Ingredients
    • 1.1.2 Optional Garnish and Variations
  • 1.2 Instructions 
    • 1.2.1 Preparation
    • 1.2.2 Baking
  • 1.3 Notes

Pineapple Ham Casserole

A comforting and savory-sweet casserole combining ham, pineapple, and cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups diced ham smoky or honey-glazed works beautifully; use leftover baked ham to save time.
• 20 ounces can of crushed pineapple, drained adds sweet brightness; use fresh pineapple for extra texture.
• 3 cups cubed day-old bread or crescent roll pieces sturdy bread holds the custard; use gluten-free bread if needed.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar contrasts the pineapple; Monterey Jack or Swiss are good swaps.
• 3 large eggs bind the casserole; for a lighter option, use 2 eggs and 1 cup Greek yogurt.
• 1.5 cups milk whole milk gives richness; use oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar warms the pineapple and creates a subtle caramel note; maple syrup works too.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard brightens the custard; omit if serving kids who prefer milder flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper balance the sweetness.
• 1 pinch salt to taste.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter brush on top for a golden crust; use olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.

Optional Garnish and Variations

• chopped green onions or parsley for garnish.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Toss the cubed bread and diced ham in the dish so they are evenly distributed.
• Scatter the drained crushed pineapple over the ham and bread.
• In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Stir half of the shredded cheddar into the custard, then pour the mixture evenly over the ham, bread, and pineapple.
• Press gently so the bread absorbs the custard.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and brush with melted butter.

Baking

• Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden, and set in the center.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a crunch topping: mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top in the last 10 minutes. You can also swap pineapple for peaches or use fresh mango. This dish can be vegetarian if you replace ham with smoked tofu or chickpeas.

Keyword Comfort Food, easy casserole, Family Recipe, leftovers, Pineapple Ham Casserole