This pineapple dressing recipe gives classic stuffing a sweet twist. It’s ready in just 1 hour. You’ll need 7 simple ingredients like crushed pineapple, day-old bread, and butter for a crunchy, moist texture.
It’s perfect as a sweet pineapple stuffing side for holidays or family meals. The recipe calls for 4 eggs, ½ cup sugar, and 6 cups cubed bread. Serve it warm and enjoy 273 calories per serving. It’s great for balancing rich meals.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Sweet Pineapple Stuffing
Sweet pineapple stuffing is a twist on traditional sides, blending bold flavors. It’s a favorite at holidays, balancing sweet and savory.
What Makes Pineapple Dressing Unique
This sweet pineapple stuffing is special because of:
- It mixes 20 oz crushed pineapple, 1 cup sugar, and toasted bread for a unique texture.
- It uses Spam, a trendy ingredient, for a rich, savory taste.
- It has a crispy top and a moist inside, thanks to baking at 350°F, covered for 30 minutes, then browning.
The Origin of Pineapple Stuffing
This pineapple stuffing recipe started as a holiday treat. It’s like Spam’s comeback, adding bold flavors. It’s a sweet-salty mix, perfect for Easter and Christmas, balancing ham’s salt with pineapple’s tang.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cook it in 60 minutes (or 20 in an Instant Pot!), and it serves 8. It’s made with just 5 main ingredients, so you can add nuts or coconut for extra taste. With only 41g sugar per serving, it’s a side dish, not a dessert, making it great for any time.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pineapple Dressing Recipe
Learning to make the pineapple dressing recipe begins with the right stuff. Let’s look at what you need for this easy pineapple stuffing. We’ll see why each ingredient is key.
Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple Options
Canned pineapple (20-ounce can with juice) is perfect for a steady texture. Choose brands like Dole or Del Monte without added sugar. Fresh pineapple works too, but you’ll need to peel, core, and chop 3 cups of fruit to match canned amounts.
Bread Selection Tips
- Go for 12 slices of white sandwich bread (like Wonder or Sunbeam) cut into 1-inch cubes
- Day-old bread soaks up liquid better than fresh. Lightly toast stale bread to refresh its texture
Sweeteners and Spices
½ cup granulated sugar balances out the pineapple’s tartness. For a warm touch, add ¼ tsp of cinnamon. But skip it if you don’t like spice.
Potential Substitutions
- Swap butter with Earth Balance vegan spread for a dairy-free option
- Try gluten-free bread like Udi’s for special diets
- Replace sugar with honey for a more natural sweetener.
Quality ingredients are crucial. Use simple, fresh parts for the best easy pineapple stuffing results.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Make this pineapple stuffing recipe a hit in your kitchen with these easy steps. Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Then, grease a 9×13-inch dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Chop white bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside in a large bowl.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, beating well after each addition.
- Blend in crushed pineapple (including juice) and stir until combined. Fold in bread cubes until evenly coated, avoiding overmixing.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared dish. Sprinkle cinnamon on top and bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes until golden and firm.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 314 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g (22% DV) |
| Saturated Fat | 8g (50% DV) |
| Cholesterol | 112mg (37% DV) |
| Sodium | 210mg (9% DV) |
| Carbohydrates | 44g (15% DV) |
| Sugar | 36g |
| Protein | 5g (10% DV) |
| Prep Time | Under 20 minutes |
| Baking Temp | 350°F |
| Baking Time | 50–60 minutes |
Let bread cubes dry a bit to get a firmer texture. For a easy pineapple stuffing, don’t overmix to keep it light. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best taste.
Delicious Variations of Pineapple Stuffing
Try these easy twists to make your sweet pineapple stuffing even better. Each variation adds new flavors and textures to the classic pineapple dressing recipe. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a holiday feast, these ideas will make your dish unforgettable.
Tropical Twist with Coconut
- Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the mixture before baking
- Serve with grilled shrimp or tropical-themed meals
Nutty Pineapple Dressing
- Incorporate ½ cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or macadamia nuts
- Perfect with roasted pork or as a hearty brunch option
Savory-Sweet Combinations
- Blend in diced bell peppers, sharp cheddar, or bacon bits
- Pair with BBQ ribs or hearty mains for balanced flavors
Holiday Special Versions
| Occasion | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Thanksgiving | Dried cranberries + nutmeg |
| Christmas | Dried apricots + orange zest |
| Easter | Chopped rosemary + extra pineapple juice |
Each variation uses a 1 ½-quart baking dish and a 350°F oven. If you add nuts or dried fruits, bake for 5-10 minutes longer. For a lighter version, mix half the bread with cornbread crumbs. Always refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and eat them within 3 days.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pineapple Dressing
Learn how to make the pineapple stuffing recipe without it getting soggy. These tips will make your easy pineapple stuffing a hit at any holiday gathering. You’ll find it’s easy to prepare.
- Moisture Control: Toast bread cubes at 300°F for 10–15 minutes before mixing. This removes excess moisture, ensuring the easy pineapple stuffing stays light. Use day-old bread for firmer texture.
- Make-Ahead Prep: Assemble the mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Refrigerate covered. Let sit at room temp 30 mins before baking. Already baked? Cool, wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Storage & Reheat: Freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking. Reheat at 350°F for 15–20 mins covered with foil. Frozen portions need 20–25 mins after thawing. Use a thermometer to reach 165°F.
- Butter Swaps: Substitute butter with vegan buttery spread for a dairy-free option. Avoid shortening for better flavor. Butter is optional but makes it non-dairy free. Both are 1:1 swaps.
Adjust pineapple juice levels to control texture. Reheat leftovers covered to prevent drying. These tips will make your pineapple stuffing recipe a stress-free holiday favorite.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Sweet pineapple stuffing is a versatile side that makes any meal special. It pairs well with roasted ham, balancing its salty taste. This combination is a classic at Easter, thanks to 26 savory pineapple recipes.
It also complements pork dishes like chops or tenderloin. The tropical sweetness adds depth without being too much.
Try it with herbs like rosemary or thyme for roasted chicken. Or use it as a base for a sweet-and-savory brunch. Leftovers? Warm it up and top with vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. This idea is featured in 10+ pineapple salsa and sauce recipes.
- Classic Pairings: Holiday ham, pork, chicken, or grilled meats
- Vegetable Contrast: Brussels sprouts, green beans, or garden salads
- Breakfast Idea: Topped with bacon and eggs for a sweet-savory start
| Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Ham | Scientifically proven flavor match (sweet vs. salty) |
| Grilled dishes | Popular in summer menus with tropical flair |
| Ice cream | 92 kcal/serving dessert option |
Serve it in a baking dish for casual meals or portion it out for elegance. It keeps well for up to 1 week or can be frozen for later. Just thaw it overnight for a quick meal upgrade. Thissweet pineapple stuffingis perfect for any occasion, from Easter dinners to weeknight meals.
It offers 18g of natural sweetness per serving, enhancing main dishes without overpowering them. Add jalapeño for a spicy twist, as seen in 5+ grilling recipes. It’s a crowd-pleaser all year round.
Conclusion
This pineapple stuffing recipe is a fun twist on traditional sides. It mixes tropical sweetness with cozy textures. It’s easy to make and has bold flavors, perfect for any meal.
The recipe uses fresh pineapple, bread, and spices. You can also add coconut or nuts for extra flavor. This makes it great for both casual dinners and big celebrations.
Pineapple is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It has enzymes that help with digestion and boosts your immune system. Plus, it’s full of vitamin C.
Whether you’re making it simple or trying new variations, it’s easy to prepare. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy the mix of textures. It’s also nutritious, with protein and healthy fats from tofu or nuts.
It only takes 35 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. You can also customize it with your favorite spices or ingredients. It’s great for any occasion, from Easter to summer barbecues.
It’s a dish that will make everyone talk and want more. Its mix of ease and unique flavor makes it a favorite. It’s perfect for those who want something simple yet impressive.