15 Best Pineapple Recipes to Add a Tropical Twist to Any Meal
It’s a little taste of paradise!
Picture it: You're lounging on the beach, a fruity drink in hand, and a plate of fresh, juicy pineapple within reach. While a tropical vacation isn't always in the cards, these pineapple recipes can bring that same feeling to your home.
Here, you'll find tons of ways to use pineapple in weeknight dinners and grilling recipes. It adds a burst of tropical flavor to grilled fish, fresh salsas, casseroles, and more. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, there are plenty of desserts to choose from, including pineapple pie, pineapple upside-down cake, and even frozen treats. Don't forget the drinks, either—you'll find refreshing favorites like piña coladas and margaritas that are perfect for sipping all season long.
First things first, you'll want to review how to pick a ripe pineapple and Ree Drummond's easy way to cut it up. Or you can opt for one of the recipes that uses canned pineapple instead. Either way, these pineapple recipes will transport you to paradise—no plane ticket required.
Pineapple Casserole
This old-fashioned side dish comes together with juicy pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. It bakes up golden and bubbly for an unexpectedly irresistible dish.
Get Ree’s Pineapple Casserole recipe.
Spicy Pineapple Margarita
This is not your standard margarita: pineapple brings the sweet, lime brings the tart, and jalapeño brings the kick! It’s mixed with mezcal, which gives it the most delicious smoky flavor, too.
Get Ree’s Spicy Pineapple Margarita recipe.
Pineapple Pie
Here’s a retro Southern-style dessert. The rich, custardy filling is made from crushed pineapple, egg yolks, butter, and a splash of lime. Served with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, it’s tangy, creamy, and so nostalgic.
Get the Pineapple Pie recipe.
Grilled Pineapple
Yes, you can throw pineapple on the grill! These rounds are marinated in lime juice, coconut rum, and agave—and the result is juicy, lightly caramelized, and full of tropical flavor.
Get Ree’s Grilled Pineapple recipe.
Grilled Swordfish with Pineapple Salsa
Here’s a summery dinner that pairs fish steaks with a bright pineapple salsa. With smoky char from the grill and a sweet-spicy topping made with pineapple, jalapeño, and lime, it’s an easy way to bring bold coastal flavor to the table.
Piña Colada
If you like piña coladas (and getting caught in the rain), definitely make some from scratch. It's a taste of the tropics, even if you can't plan your escape quite that day.
Get the Piña Colada recipe.
Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes
These little beauties are easier than they look! Simply use canned pineapple rings and muffin pans to create evenly sized cakes, perfect for a crowd.
Get Ree's Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes recipe.
Pineapple Salsa
You can serve it as a topping for tacos or grilled steak, or simply serve it in a bowl with tortilla chips for dipping. Either way, it's sweet, spicy, and oh so colorful!
Get Ree's Pineapple Salsa recipe.
Piña Colada Cake
The classic combination of sweet pineapple and cooling coconut come together in this easy, breezy cake. It'll make for a fun summer dessert for any occasion.
Get the Piña Colada Cake recipe.
Ham with Cherry-Pineapple Glaze
This gorgeous retro ham is perfect for Easter, Christmas, or really any time you want to wow everyone at dinner. It's sweet and salty and savory all in one bite!
Get Ree's Ham with Cherry-Pineapple Glaze recipe.
Sweet and Sour Pork Meatballs with Pineapple
These tangy meatballs are delicious served over rice for weeknight dinners, but you can also serve them up with toothpicks as a party appetizer.
Get Ree's Sweet and Sour Pork Meatballs with Pineapple recipe.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Those iconic pineapple rings and bright red cherries have been adorning upside-down cakes since the 1920s. It's a classic dessert that doesn't go out of style.
Get the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake recipe.
Pineapple-Peach Frozen Sangria
Ree calls this "summer in a glass" and it's easy to see why—the drink is sweet, fruity, and icy cold.
Get Ree's Pineapple-Peach Frozen Sangria recipe.
Dole Whip
Disney fans might recognize this theme park favorite. It's a cool, refreshing soft serve made from frozen pineapple, pineapple juice, and vanilla ice cream!
Get the Dole Whip recipe.
Tropical Fruit Galette
What makes this easy pastry feel like a tropical vacation? Maybe it's the chopped coconut flakes and macadamia nuts or the sweet mango, pineapple, and kiwi. Then again, there'a also a drizzle of coconut-lime glaze right over the top!
Get the Tropical Fruit Galette recipe.
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