Difficulty: Easy | Yields: 4 open-faced sandwiches (serves 2)
Mexican Molletes, Say buenos días with Molletes, a beloved Mexican breakfast or snack featuring crusty bolillo bread, slathered with creamy refried beans and melted cheese, then crowned with fresh pico de gallo. This humble dish is lightning-fast to make, wallet-friendly, and deeply satisfying—like a Mexican version of open-faced grilled cheese with salsa flair.
History & Cultural Significance Of Mexican Molletes
Molletes originated in central Mexico and are a prime example of antojitos—small bites that satisfy the appetite between meals. Traditionally made with bolillos, a French-style bread introduced during the colonial era, molletes bridge European baking with indigenous and mestizo flavors.
Refried beans (frijoles refritos), a staple in Mexican homes, bring richness and protein to the table, while pico de gallo adds raw brightness and crunch. The name “mollete” likely comes from Spanish, referring to a soft bread roll—but in Mexico, it has evolved into something distinctly flavorful, warm, and familiar.
Today, molletes are a go-to comfort meal across households, cafes, and school breakfasts—honoring tradition while inviting creativity.
Mexican Molletes, Say buenos días with Molletes, a beloved Mexican breakfast or snack featuring crusty bolillo bread, slathered with creamy refried beans and melted cheese, then crowned with fresh pico de gallo. This humble dish is lightning-fast to make, wallet-friendly, and deeply satisfying—like a Mexican version of open-faced grilled cheese with salsa flair.
📜 Why This Works
“Because the simplest dishes often taste like home.”
Molletes use pantry staples to create bold flavor contrasts—warm and melty beans and cheese meet the cold, crisp bite of tomato salsa. They’re endlessly customizable and ready in minutes, perfect for busy mornings or casual brunch.
Ingredients for Mexican Molletes
For the molletes:
☑️ 2 bolillos (or crusty rolls, sliced lengthwise)
☑️ 1 cup refried beans (homemade or canned)
☑️ 1 cup shredded cheese (Oaxaca, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
☑️ Butter or oil (for toasting)
☑️ Salt to taste
For the pico de gallo:
☑️ 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
☑️ ¼ onion, finely chopped
☑️ 1 small jalapeño or serrano pepper, minced
☑️ 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
☑️ 1 tbsp lime juice
☑️ Salt to taste
Optional toppings:
☑️ Sliced avocado or guacamole
☑️ Hot sauce or salsa verde
☑️ Fried egg (for extra protein)
👩🍳 How to Make It Mexican Molletes
🔥 Step 1: Toast the Bread
1️⃣ Slice bolillos and lightly toast under broiler or in a skillet with butter until golden and crisp.
🥣 Step 2: Heat the Beans
1️⃣ Warm refried beans in a pan, seasoning with salt if needed.
🧀 Step 3: Assemble & Melt
1️⃣ Spread a generous layer of beans on each bread half.
2️⃣ Top with shredded cheese.
3️⃣ Broil for 3–5 minutes or bake at 375°F (190°C) until cheese melts and bubbles.
🍅 Step 4: Mix the Pico de Gallo
1️⃣ In a bowl, combine tomatoes, onions, chili, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
2️⃣ Let sit for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
🌿 Step 5: Top & Serve
1️⃣ Spoon fresh pico de gallo over each hot mollete.
2️⃣ Add optional toppings like avocado, hot sauce, or fried egg. Serve immediately “Mexican Molletes”
💖 Why You’ll Love It Mexican Molletes
☑️ Crispy, cheesy, fresh, and comforting in every bite
☑️ Takes under 20 minutes to make
☑️ Customizable and vegetarian-friendly
☑️ Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor
Molletes are proof that simple doesn’t mean boring—just bold, fast, and delicious.
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Truffle Honey Glazed Duck Breast You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.