Delicious Pineapple Ham Casserole Recipe Ultimate Comfort Dish

Oh, the memories I have of cozy family gatherings, the laughter, the warmth, and the smell of my grandma’s kitchen wafting through the house! One dish that always graced her table was this delicious Pineapple Ham Casserole. It’s a dish that marries sweet and savory in a way that just feels like home. I remember sneaking bites straight from the dish, the sweet pineapple chunks dancing with the salty ham, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy layer of cheese. Pure bliss!

Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a rainy Tuesday evening, this casserole is my go-to comfort food. It’s easy to whip up, budget-friendly, and so heartwarming. So, take a seat and let’s dive into the delightful world of Pineapple Ham Casserole together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Deliciously comforting flavors: A combination of sweet, salty, and creamy that makes every bite a joy.
• Budget-friendly: Utilizing leftover ham and pantry staples.
• Customizable: So many ways to add your own twist!
• Always a crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike will fill their plates and come back for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:

• 4 cups diced cooked ham (great way to use leftovers!)
• 1 (20 oz) can of pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown, whichever you prefer)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend is heavenly)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a different flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic adds more punch if you have it!)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but it adds a nice zing)
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes (for that perfect crispy topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on creating this comforting masterpiece!

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to getting that cheesy goodness bubbly in just the right way.
2. Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, drained pineapple chunks, cooked rice, soup, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir it all together until everything is well mixed. It should smell heavenly already!
3. Add cheese: Reserve one cup of shredded cheese for the top, and mix the rest into the ham mixture. This will make the casserole extra cheesy and creamy.
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even bake.
5. Top it off: Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top, and then finish with a generous layer of crushed cornflakes. This gives it that lovely crunch you’ll look forward to with every bite.
6. Bake to perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like a dream!
7. Let it cool: Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up a bit, making for easier servings.

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the classic recipe, let’s get a little creative, shall we?

• Spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika or smoked paprika for a kick of flavor.
• Vegetable boost: Add some veggies! Frozen peas or chopped bell peppers blend in beautifully and add color.
• Protein swaps: If ham isn’t your thing, try chicken or even a vegetarian twist with chickpeas!
• Cheese choices: Go wild with different cheese blends—try pepper jack for heat or gouda for a smoky finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Ham Casserole is delightful all on its own, but I love to serve it with a simple side salad bursting with fresh greens and lemon vinaigrette. It brightens the meal perfectly! If you’re feeling indulgent, some warm, crusty bread is lovely for mopping up the cheesy goodness. And don’t forget your favorite cup of coffee or a light white wine to accompany this feast!

Storage Tips

Now, if you happen to have leftovers (which I hope you do, because they’re just as delicious the next day!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, portion the cooled casserole into airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to label it!
• Reheat: For reheating, if it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You might want to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for some added melty goodness!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give a great flavor and texture to the dish. Just ensure that it’s diced into similar-sized chunks as the canned version for even cooking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet taste of the pineapple combined with the savory ham is usually a hit with kids. Plus, it’s fun to eat with a crunchy topping!

What can I serve with Pineapple Ham Casserole?

It pairs beautifully with a light salad, but for a heartier meal, serve it with crusty bread or roasted vegetables!

Conclusion

I hope you dive into this Pineapple Ham Casserole and find as much joy in making it as I do! It’s more than just a dish; it’s about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying heartwarming meals with loved ones. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it went! Feel free to comment below with your thoughts, or share any special twists you added. Happy cooking!

Delicious Pineapple Ham Casserole Recipe Ultimate Comfort Dish

---

• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savor this comforting Pineapple Ham Casserole recipe thats perfect for family meals Easy delicious and packed with flavor Enjoy today 153 chars

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 cups diced cooked ham

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained

1 cup cooked rice

2 cups shredded cheese

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 cup crushed cornflakes

---

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, drained pineapple chunks, cooked rice, soup, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well mixed.

Reserve one cup of shredded cheese for the top, and mix the rest into the ham mixture.

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top and add a generous layer of crushed cornflakes.

Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

A delightful Pineapple Ham Casserole that marries sweet and savory flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and ideal for family gatherings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 servings
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: Pineapple Ham Casserole, easy casserole recipes, comfort food