Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole

Looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? This Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole is the perfect mix of sweet and savory, with tender chunks of ham, juicy pineapple, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that ties it all together. Every bite is a burst of flavor—salty, tangy, and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of recipe that warms your soul and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

Why You’ll Love Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a comforting holiday side, this casserole fits the bill every single time. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, a side, or even as part of a brunch spread.
Budget-Friendly: Uses leftover ham and pantry staples to create a hearty, flavorful meal.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple steps mean less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying.
Customizable: Add extra cheese, swap the pineapple for peaches, or toss in some veggies for your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its sweet-and-savory combo is a guaranteed hit with everyone at the table.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, making it a must-have for any occasion.

Ingredients in Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole

Here’s why this casserole is such a winner—it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. Let’s break it down:

Ham: The star of the dish, adding a savory, smoky depth of flavor.
Pineapple Chunks: Juicy and sweet, they brighten up every bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Melty and sharp, creating a creamy, cheesy layer.
Eggs: Help bind the casserole together and add richness.
Milk or Cream: Brings everything together with a smooth, velvety texture.
Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers: A crunchy topping that adds the perfect contrast.
Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp up the topping beautifully.
Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness that complements the pineapple and balances the savory ham.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious casserole:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish to ensure easy cleanup later.

Prepare the Ham and Pineapple: In a large bowl, combine diced ham and pineapple chunks. This sweet-and-savory pairing is what makes the dish shine.

Mix the Custard Base: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a bit of brown sugar until smooth. This mixture creates the creamy layer that binds the casserole.

Combine Everything: Pour the custard mixture over the ham and pineapple, then stir in half the cheese to blend the flavors.

Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese, followed by a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Drizzle melted butter over the top.

Bake to Perfection: Place in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, golden, and set in the center.

Finishing Touches: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving—it will set slightly and be easier to slice.

Serve and Enjoy: Scoop onto plates and watch it disappear in no time!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides. Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:

• With Rice or Quinoa: The casserole’s sauce soaks beautifully into grains.
• Fresh Green Salad: Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness.
• Dinner Rolls: Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complements the flavors while adding extra nutrients.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you make this recipe even better:

• Use leftover holiday ham to make this dish budget-friendly and flavorful.
• For a tropical twist, use crushed pineapple instead of chunks.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for subtle warmth.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; they reheat beautifully in the oven.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use canned pineapple?
Absolutely! Just drain it well to prevent excess moisture.

3. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, Swiss, or even pepper jack would work great.

4. How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

6. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener substitute.

7. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, or peas would blend beautifully.

8. How can I make it creamier?
Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.

9. Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Yes, cooked turkey works perfectly as an alternative.

10. How long do leftovers last?
Stored properly in the fridge, leftovers last about 3 days.

Conclusion

Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its balance of savory ham, sweet pineapple, and cheesy, creamy goodness, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making it from scratch, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it warm, and watch how fast it disappears!

Print

Watch How to Make Baked Ham and Pineapple Casserole