Molletes Mexicanos with Refried Beans
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on Nov 08, 2020, Updated Mar 07, 2025
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These classic Molletes Mexicanos are made with refried beans, melty cheese, and zesty salsa on butter-toasted bolillos. A classic and economical Mexican dish, this hearty and filling breakfast can easily be made for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Table of Contents
What are Molletes Mexicanos?
Molletes Mexicanos (pronounced mo-YEH-tehs) are a traditional Mexican dish that is often served as a quick and filling breakfast. Think of them as an open-faced grilled cheese—but even better!
Bolillos, which are essentially Mexico’s version of crusty French bread buns, are split in half, toasted with butter, then slathered with refried beans and melted cheese and topped with your favorite salsa. Doesn’t that sound like the best?
By virtue of the humble ingredients, molletes receta mexicana are incredibly thrifty, making them perfect for feeding a crowd! Even if you’ve never heard of receta de molletes mexicanos before, you’re going to want to try this easy, filling sandwich recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Budget-friendly and great for meal prep.
Simple and quick to make—ready in minutes!
Requires just a handful of ingredients.
Easily customizable with different toppings and cheeses.
Ingredients & Substitutions
For such a rich, delicious recipe, the ingredient list is quite simple! Here’s what you’ll need to make this molletes mexicanos receta:
- Bolillo rolls – If you can’t find bolillos, opt for crusty French or Italian bread.
- Butter – For that perfect toasted texture.
- Refried beans – Homemade refried beans or store-bought.
- Cheese – Traditional queso Oaxaca, but Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or Cheddar work too.
- Pico de gallo – Or your favorite salsa.
The complete list of ingredients, quantities, and instructions can be found in the printable recipe card below.
Optional Variations
This recipe has not been tested with all of these substitutions or variations. If you replace or add any ingredients, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
- Want to spice things up? Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Need a dairy-free version? Use plant-based butter and cheese.
- Add protein? Top with a fried egg or slices of avocado for extra richness.
- Get extra cheesy by swapping in my spicy, bacon-flecked cheesy refried bean dip.
How to Make Molletes Mexicanos
Step 1: Prepare the bread. Slice bolillo rolls in half lengthwise. Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice. Place them buttered side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and broil until lightly golden brown and crispy. This only takes a minute or two, so stay close by.
TIP: To make cleanup easier, use parchment paper on your baking sheet.
Step 2: Assemble the molletes. Spread about a half cup of refried beans over each toasted bolillo half. Top with shredded cheese.
Step 3: Melt the cheese. Return the sheet pan to the oven and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Stop 4: Top and serve. Remove from the oven, top with your favorite salsa or pico de gallo, and enjoy!
Serving & Topping Suggestions
- Pico de gallo
- Salsa verde
- Chunky guacamole or sliced avocado
- Fried egg
Molletes Mexicanos Expert Tips & Tricks
Try different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning the bread.
Use homemade refried beans for extra flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F until warm.
- Freeze toasted bolillo halves separately and assemble fresh for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Molletes Mexicanos are believed to have originated in central Mexico, particularly in Mexico City and surrounding areas. They are a staple in many Mexican homes and are enjoyed throughout the country as a quick and satisfying meal.
The traditional choice is queso Oaxaca, but Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar all work well.
The word molletes is pronounced as “mo-YEH-tehs.” The emphasis is on the second syllable, and the double “ll” is pronounced like a soft “y” sound in Spanish.
Traditional pico de gallo is classic, but salsa verde, salsa casera, or chile de árbol salsa are also great choices.
More Mexican Sandwiches
If you tried this molletes mexicanos receta or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below!
Authentic Molletes Mexicanos
Ingredients
- 3 bolillos, Mexican rolls
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 cups refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese (queso Oaxaca or Monterey Jack)
- Pico de gallo or salsa of choice
Instructions
- Slice bolillo rolls in half lengthwise. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of butter on each slice.
- Place rolls, buttered side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and broil, until lightly golden brown and crispy, a minute or two.
- Spread a thin layer (roughly ½ cup) of refried beans over the toasted side of each roll. Top with shredded cheese
- Place molletes in oven and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, until cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Top each mollete with salsa. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cheese: Feel free to choose your favorite cheese — Monterey Jack or Mozzarella would make fine substitutes. If you’re looking for something a little spicier, Pepper Jack could be a fun option. Colby or Cheddar would also do just fine.
- Bolillos: Can’t find bolillo bread rolls? You can use French bread or Italian bread.
- Beans: Instead of traditional refried beans, you could try chorizo refried black beans
- Toppings: Feel free to make these your own — select your salsa of choice, add sliced avocados or guacamole. Make them heartier by adding a fried egg or sprinkle with cooked chorizo on top!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Photography by Jenna Sparks
Simple and classic nostalgic comfort food that is so economical!