Pineapple Ham Casserole
A comforting and easy casserole featuring tender ham, sweet pineapple, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked ham, diced Use ham trimmings or leftover holiday ham for deep flavor.
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice, drained Canned pineapple adds sweetness and bright acidity; fresh works too.
- 2 cups cooked rice Rice makes it heartier; noodles add nostalgia.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar gives a savory lift.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise For creaminess; swap with plain yogurt for fewer calories.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Caramelizes slightly in baking for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Optional, but the aroma is irresistible.
- 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice Balances tang and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar Balances tang and sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust based on ham saltiness.
- 1 pinch salt Adjust based on ham saltiness.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko for topping Panko crisps beautifully; use crushed Ritz for richer flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, drained pineapple chunks, cooked rice or noodles, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar. Stir until evenly mixed.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until glossy.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the ham and pineapple, folding gently so the rice or noodles soak up the sauce.
- Transfer everything to your prepared baking dish, spreading into an even layer. Sprinkle the crushed crackers or panko on top.
Baking
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbling and the topping turns golden. Let it rest 5 minutes out of the oven before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Consider adding jalapeño for heat or swapping the ham for mushrooms for a vegetarian option.