This easy Mexican Casserole is a retro pork-and-beans bake with crisp bacon, tender peppers, and a sweet-spicy kick from molasses, brown sugar, and a few drops of Tabasco.
It comes together fast and bakes in about 45 minutes in a 1-quart dish—perfect for a simple weeknight supper or a casual potluck side.
🥘 Savory Mexican Casserole
A rich, hearty bean dish featuring the smoky crunch of bacon and a sweet-and-spicy sauce. This comfort-food classic is simple to assemble and delivers bold flavor.
⏱️ Cook Time: 45 Mins🍽️ Serves: 4–6🔥 Oven: 375°F
Ingredients
6 slices bacon, chopped
⅓ cup chopped celery
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ cup chopped green pepper
2 (1 lb) cans pork and beans in tomato sauce (~4 cups)
¼ cup ketchup
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp molasses
3–5 drops Tabasco sauce
Preparation Instructions
Cook Aromatics: Fry bacon until crisp. Remove and drain, reserving 2 tbsp of drippings. Sauté celery, onion, and pepper in drippings until tender.
Combine: In a 1-quart baking dish, mix beans, cooked vegetables, bacon, ketchup, sugars, molasses, and Tabasco.
Bake: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 45 minutes until bubbling and hot.
Mexican Casserole FAQ
Is this casserole spicy?
It’s mildly spicy—Tabasco is used in just a few drops. Add more if you like extra heat.
Can I use different canned beans?
Yes. Pork and beans are traditional, but baked beans or other canned beans can work with a similar cook time.
What size dish should I use?
A 1-quart baking dish is listed. If your dish is shallow, place it on a sheet pan to prevent drips.
What goes well with Mexican casserole?
Serve with cornbread, rice, or a simple salad to balance the sweet-spicy flavor.
