Mexican Crescent Bars
Mexican Crescent Bars combine savory beef, beans, and olives encased in flaky crescent dough, baked to golden perfection—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375° F.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and seasoning mix in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in pork and beans into the beef mixture.
- Separate the refrigerated crescent dough into two rectangles.
- Place the dough in an ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Press the dough over the bottom and up 1/2 inch along the sides to form a crust, sealing perforations.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle sliced green olives over the meat mixture.
- In a small bowl, blend sour cream and egg until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheese into the sour cream mixture.
- Spoon the cheese mixture over the meat layer without spreading.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you don’t have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. You can also use black beans instead of pork and beans for a vegetarian option. To save time, prepare the meat mixture ahead and refrigerate it until ready to assemble. This recipe can be served as a fun twist on traditional Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Crescent Bars warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for extra flavor. They pair well with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with Randy'S Velveeta Enchiladas or a light salsa to complement the dish's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mexican Crescent Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as the crescent crust can become tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Crescent Bars contains roughly 849 calories, with 19g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and assemble the bars a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This can save time on busy weeknights and allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great alternative that provides a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese, but be sure to soften it before blending with the egg for a smooth consistency.
Can I freeze the Mexican Crescent Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked bars. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).