Mexican Casserole Recipe | Pork & Beans with Bacon, Molasses & Tabasco
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.
Mexican Casserole
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
- 2 (1 lb) cans pork and beans in tomato sauce (about 4 cups)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 3 to 5 drops Tabasco sauce
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon, reserving about 2 tablespoons drippings in the skillet.
- Add celery, onion, and green pepper to the drippings; cook until tender but not browned.
- In a 1-quart baking dish, combine pork and beans, cooked vegetables, bacon, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, and Tabasco.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 45 minutes. Serves 4 to 6.
- Total cook time: 45 minutes
- Equipment: 1-quart baking dish + skillet
- Servings: 4 to 6
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.