You’ve probably heard of chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and maybe even tamales for breakfast — but have you ever tried molletes?
Molletes are the unsung heroes of the Mexican breakfast table. They're simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable — like if avocado toast had a cooler, older cousin who studied abroad in Oaxaca.
Let’s break it down.
What Are Molletes?
At their core, molletes are toasted bolillo rolls (kind of like a Mexican baguette) topped with refried beans and melted cheese, often served with pico de gallo or salsa on the side.
That’s it. No frills. Just pure comfort.
But like all great dishes, it’s the details that make them shine.
Why They Hit So Hard
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Texture: You get that perfect balance between crispy toasted bread, creamy beans, and gooey cheese.
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Flavor: The beans bring depth, the cheese adds richness, and the salsa wakes everything up.
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Speed: You can make them in 10 minutes. Seriously.
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Versatility: Add chorizo, swap beans for mushrooms, throw an egg on top, or go full veggie with roasted peppers. They can be whatever you want.
How to Make Molletes at Home
You don’t need much. Here's the simplest version:
You’ll need:
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1 bolillo (or substitute with a soft baguette or ciabatta)
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1/2 cup refried beans (black or pinto)
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Grated cheese (like Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or mozzarella)
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Salsa or pico de gallo
How to:
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Slice the bread lengthwise and toast lightly under the broiler or in a pan.
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Spread each half with warm refried beans.
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Top with cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
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Spoon salsa or pico over the top, or serve it on the side.
Eat it with your hands. Trust us.
A Bit of Background
Molletes are believed to have originated in Central Mexico, where bolillos are sold at every corner panadería. It’s a dish of convenience — the kind of thing you make when you’ve got leftover beans, day-old bread, and not much else.
But like many humble dishes, molletes have evolved into something that transcends the ingredients. In cafés across Mexico, they’ve become a comforting, customizable staple — breakfast, snack, or even a light dinner.
Why You Should Try Them
Molletes represent everything that’s beautiful about Mexican food: resourcefulness, flavor, texture, and soul. They're not flashy. They’re not Instagram-famous. But they’re warm, filling, and absolutely unforgettable.
Next time you want something cozy and fast, skip the toast. Make a mollete instead.