Easy Pineapple Stuffing Recipe for a Sweet and Savory Holiday Side

What Is Pineapple Stuffing

Pineapple stuffing is a flavorful twist on traditional bread stuffing, combining the sweet, tangy taste of pineapple with savory herbs and spices. This dish often features a mix of bread cubes, pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), onions, celery, and seasonings, baked until golden and fragrant. Originating from regions that embrace tropical flavors, pineapple stuffing adds a bright, unique touch to classic holiday or everyday meals.

Its appeal lies in the balance between sweet and savory, making it a versatile side that pairs well with everything from turkey and ham to grilled chicken or pork. Whether you’re looking for a fresh holiday stuffing idea or a tropical stuffing dish for weeknight dinners, pineapple stuffing offers a refreshing alternative that’s both easy to make and crowd-pleasing.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Stuffing Recipe

This pineapple stuffing recipe is a winner because it’s super easy to make. You don’t need fancy skills or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple steps and common pantry staples. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or a holiday side dish, it comes together fast and bakes beautifully.

The versatility is another big plus. It pairs perfectly with everything from roasted turkey to baked ham, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving stuffing ideas or just as a sweet, tropical stuffing dish for any occasion. You can also serve it as a pineapple stuffing casserole, adding a warm, comforting element to your table.

Plus, this recipe adapts well to different diets. You can easily swap ingredients for gluten-free bread or make a vegan version by using plant-based butter and broth. It’s a sweet stuffing recipe that fits a variety of needs without losing flavor or texture, perfect if you’re cooking for family or friends with dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Pineapple Stuffing

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty pineapple stuffing casserole:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or whole wheat)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried sage or poultry seasoning
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Substitution ideas

• Use gluten-free bread to make the stuffing gluten-free
• Swap melted butter with olive oil or vegan butter for a vegan-friendly option
• Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener
• Use fresh pineapple if canned isn’t available—just drain well to avoid sogginess

Quick tip

For best texture, use bread that’s a day or two old so it soaks up flavors without turning mushy. If bread is fresh, toast it lightly in the oven before starting.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Stuffing Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the bread by tearing or cutting it into about 1-inch cubes. Use day-old bread for the best texture.

3. Mix wet ingredients first: In a large bowl, combine 1 can (20 oz) of drained crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 2 beaten eggs. Stir well until smooth.

4. Add the dry ingredients: Pour in 4 cups of bread cubes, 1/2 cup chopped onions, 1/2 cup celery, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently so everything is evenly coated. You can also add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or raisins if you want extra texture.

5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

6. Bake the pineapple bread stuffing in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is cooked through.

7. Check halfway through baking; if the top is browning too fast, cover loosely with foil.

8. Let it cool slightly before serving. The pineapple stuffing casserole pairs well as a sweet and savory holiday side dish.

Visual Tip
Picture your stuffing rising with a golden crust and moist inside. Serving it warm brings out the tropical and comforting flavors perfectly.

Use this simple method each time for consistent, tasty results.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Stuffing

Making great pineapple stuffing is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some quick tips to get it just right:

• Use day-old bread
  For the best texture, use bread that’s a day or two old. It soaks up the pineapple and seasonings without turning mushy.

• Adjust sugar level
  If you like your pineapple stuffing less sweet, cut back on added sugar or use fresh pineapple instead of canned. For a sweeter side dish, keep or add a bit of brown sugar or honey.

• Add mix-ins
  Mix it up by tossing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, dried cranberries, or cooked sausage. These add crunch or savory notes that blend nicely with the pineapple.

• Serving ideas
  Pineapple stuffing is perfect alongside baked ham, roasted turkey, or grilled chicken. It also works as a tropical twist on classic Thanksgiving stuffing ideas.

• Storage tips
  Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warm. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.

These simple tricks will have your pineapple stuffing tasting fresh, balanced, and crowd-pleasing every time.

Recipe Variations

This pineapple stuffing recipe is super flexible, making it easy to fit different diets and flavor preferences. Here are some popular variations to try:

Gluten-Free Options

• Swap traditional bread for gluten-free bread crumbs or cubes.
• Use gluten-free stuffing seasoning or fresh herbs to keep the flavor authentic.

Vegan Alternatives

• Replace butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for moisture without animal products.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or nuts for extra texture and protein.

Savory Twist

• Incorporate cooked sausage, bacon bits, or diced ham for a meaty boost.
• Add fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme to deepen the herb profile.
• Toss in caramelized onions and garlic for rich, savory layers.

Tropical Flair

• Mix in shredded coconut or chopped mango to enhance the tropical vibe.
• Use brown sugar or honey to sweeten slightly for a contrast with savory notes.
• Add chopped macadamia nuts for crunch and a unique nutty flavor.

These options make the pineapple stuffing casserole perfect not only as a holiday side dish but also for pairing with ham, turkey, or even grilled chicken. Experiment to find your favorite combo!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pineapple stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare pineapple stuffing a day before your meal. Mix the ingredients, cover the dish tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it an easy holiday side dish to plan in advance.

How do I balance the sweet and savory flavors?

The key is to balance the sweetness of the pineapple with savory ingredients like onions, herbs, and broth. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce added sugar or use unsweetened pineapple. Adding spices like sage or thyme can enhance the savory side, making your pineapple stuffing casserole well-rounded.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple gives a vibrant, juicy flavor, but be mindful of excess moisture. Drain chopped fresh pineapple well or briefly sauté it to reduce water content. This prevents your stuffing from getting soggy and keeps that perfect texture.

For more easy holiday recipes that pair well with pineapple stuffing, check out Party Potatoes for a crowd-pleasing combo.

Why Aura’s Pineapple Stuffing Recipe Stands Out

Aura’s pineapple stuffing recipe is crafted with everyday cooks in mind. It blends simplicity with flavor, making it a go-to for holiday side dishes or any meal that needs a little tropical lift. What sets Aura apart is how the recipe balances sweet and savory perfectly, thanks to clear instructions and easy ingredient swaps that fit most diets.

Here’s why you’ll find Aura’s recipe reliable and user-friendly:

• Simple steps: The recipe breaks down each step so beginners can follow along without stress.
• Flexible ingredients: Whether you want gluten-free bread or a vegan version, Aura offers straightforward alternatives.
• Everyday ingredients: No specialty items needed, just staples most kitchens already have.
• Meal versatility: Great alongside ham, turkey, or as a sweet stuffing casserole on its own.
• Diet-focused: Easily adaptable for those watching sugar or following specific diets common in the U.S.

Aura understands practical cooking and delivers a pineapple stuffing recipe that’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress at any table.