Mexican cuisine offers an exciting array of breakfast options that can add a burst of flavor to your morning routine. If you’re looking to spice up your breakfast, these 20 Mexican breakfast ideas will provide delicious and hearty choices. From savory to sweet, these dishes highlight the rich, diverse flavors of Mexican culinary traditions.
These breakfast recipes not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a bit of culinary adventure to your table. Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or a modern twist, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to start your day with a delicious Mexican touch.
1) Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican breakfast dish that you will love. It is made with crispy tortilla chips, known as “totopos,” which are lightly fried until they are golden brown. These chips are then simmered in your choice of green or red salsa, making the dish flavorful.
To make Chilaquiles, you start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the tortilla quarters until they are crispy. After that, drain them on a paper towel. In the same skillet, heat the salsa over medium heat.
You can add extra ingredients like chicken, eggs, or cheese to make your Chilaquiles more delicious. Some people like to include green chilies, cumin, and oregano for added flavor. Simmer the salsa-covered chips until they are softened but not soggy.
Serve Chilaquiles hot, garnished with toppings such as sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro. This dish is often enjoyed with a side of refried beans or scrambled eggs.
2) Huevos Rancheros
Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast dish that features fried eggs served on lightly fried tortillas. It’s typically topped with a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
To make Huevos Rancheros, start by heating some oil in a pan. Fry tortillas for about a minute on each side. Drain the excess oil using paper towels.
Warm up some refried beans in a separate pot. Spread a thin layer of these beans over each tortilla.
Next, fry eggs sunny side up in the same oil used for the tortillas.
Place each egg on top of the bean-covered tortillas. Pour a generous amount of salsa over the eggs.
You can garnish with cilantro and optionally add cheese or avocado slices. Huevos Rancheros is best enjoyed while hot and fresh.
3) Breakfast Tacos with Chorizo
Breakfast tacos with chorizo are a delicious and savory way to start your morning. They are easy to make and full of flavor, combining the spiciness of chorizo with creamy scrambled eggs.
First, cook the chorizo in a large skillet over medium heat until it is browned and crispy. Remove it from the skillet, but save a bit of the fat for cooking the eggs.
Next, whisk together eggs, a bit of milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour the mixture into the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the eggs are scrambled and firm.
Warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are hot and soft. This makes them easier to fold and less likely to break.
Assemble your tacos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs and chorizo. You can add toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, or a sprinkle of cheese.
These breakfast tacos are great for a quick morning meal or even a brunch gathering. You can customize them with different toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this Mexican breakfast treat!
4) Molletes
Molletes are a simple yet delicious Mexican breakfast. They start with a bolillo, a type of Mexican bread roll. You slice the bolillo in half and toast it until it’s golden brown.
Next, spread a layer of warm refried beans onto each bread half. The beans add a creamy texture and a rich flavor.
After the beans, sprinkle some cheese evenly on top. Queso fresco is a popular choice, but you can use any melty cheese you prefer. Then, place the molletes back in the oven to melt the cheese.
Once the cheese is melted, you can add your favorite toppings. Common choices include pico de gallo, hot salsa, or pickled jalapeños.
Molletes are perfect for a quick and hearty breakfast. They’re easy to make and can be customized with different toppings to suit your taste.
5) Mexican Scrambled Eggs
Mexican scrambled eggs, also known as “Huevos a la Mexicana,” are a staple breakfast dish. These eggs are colorful and full of flavor, making them a great way to start your day.
To prepare, you first need to gather your ingredients. You will need eggs, tomatoes, onions, and Serrano peppers. These fresh ingredients give the dish its vibrant taste.
Start by heating some oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook them until they are soft. Next, add the Serrano peppers and cook for a couple of minutes.
Once the onions and peppers are ready, add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together and let it cook for another couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to blend well.
The final step is to add the beaten eggs to the mixture. Stir continuously until the eggs are fully cooked. The result is a plate of fluffy, flavorful scrambled eggs with a bit of a kick.
Serve your Mexican scrambled eggs with warm tortillas or toast. Some people like to add a side of refried beans or fresh avocado slices. Enjoy this simple yet delicious breakfast with your favorite toppings.
6) Tamales de Desayuno
Tamales de desayuno are a popular Mexican breakfast item. They are made by steaming corn dough (masa) filled with various savory ingredients. Common fillings include eggs, cheese, chorizo, or beans.
These breakfast tamales pair well with traditional Mexican drinks like atole and champurrado. Atole is a warm, corn-based beverage, while champurrado is a chocolate-flavored atole.
To enjoy tamales de desayuno, warm them up by steaming or microwaving. They can be served with salsa or topped with a fried egg for extra flavor. Eating tamales for breakfast is a delicious way to start your day with a taste of Mexican cuisine.
7) Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are a tasty and filling morning meal. You can easily make them at home with a variety of ingredients. They often start with a soft tortilla, which you fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and a choice of meats like bacon, sausage, or chorizo.
You can also add veggies like peppers, onions, and tomatoes to add more flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget the beans, which add protein and make the burrito even more satisfying. Black beans or refried beans both work well.
Top your breakfast burrito with salsa, avocado, or a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to customize. You can make them in bulk and freeze them for quick breakfasts later.
Making breakfast burritos can be a fun family activity, too. Everyone can choose their favorite fillings and make their own unique burrito. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
8) Tostadas de Desayuno
Tostadas de desayuno are a delicious and easy way to start your day. These breakfast tostadas combine crispy corn tortillas with savory toppings.
Begin by heating refried beans on the stove or in the microwave. Spread a layer of warm beans over each tostada shell.
Next, cook some chorizo in a skillet. Brown the sausage for 5 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
In another skillet, cook eggs to your liking—sunny side up, scrambled, or fried.
Place the cooked eggs on top of the beans and chorizo. Add a sprinkle of cheese, fresh tomatoes, and avocado slices.
This combination creates a flavorful and satisfying breakfast. You can also add a drizzle of salsa for extra spice.
Experiment with different toppings like pico de gallo, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime.
Enjoy your Tostadas de Desayuno with your favorite morning beverage.
9) Mexican Omelette
A Mexican omelette is a tasty way to start your day. You’ll love the mix of fresh veggies and spices.
Start by heating oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and jalapenos. Cook them until they are soft.
Once the onions and jalapenos are ready, add diced tomatoes and black beans. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and cumin to boost flavors. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until the tomatoes are soft.
Next, remove the veggies from the pan. Melt some butter in the same pan. Whisk a few eggs and pour them into the pan. Let the eggs cook for about 30 seconds.
Add the cooked veggies back into the pan. Fold the omelette in half, covering the veggies. Cook until the eggs are fully set. Serve hot with avocado and a sprinkle of cheese.
10) Sopa de Fideo
Sopa de Fideo is a classic Mexican noodle soup that is comforting and delicious. It’s made with simple ingredients, making it easy to prepare.
You start by toasting the fideo pasta until it’s golden brown. This gives the soup a rich, nutty flavor.
Next, you blend tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot with the toasted noodles.
Add chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are soft.
This soup can be made with chicken or beef broth, depending on your preference. Some recipes also add vegetables like potatoes or carrots.
Don’t forget to adjust the salt to taste before serving. Sopa de Fideo is often enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
11) Enfrijoladas
Enfrijoladas are a traditional Mexican breakfast dish that is both simple and delicious. They are made by dipping corn tortillas in a creamy bean sauce. This sauce is often made from black or pinto beans.
First, you need to prepare the bean sauce. Blend cooked beans with broth, chipotle peppers, garlic, onions, and cumin until smooth. Heat the sauce in a skillet until it thickens a bit.
Next, lightly fry the tortillas in a separate skillet. This softens them and adds flavor. After frying, dip each tortilla into the warm bean sauce. Make sure they are well-coated.
Fill the tortillas with ingredients like queso fresco, diced onions, or chicken. Fold them in half and place them on a warm plate. Pour a bit more bean sauce on top for extra flavor.
To finish, you can add some garnishes. Crumbled cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream are popular choices. Serve your enfrijoladas immediately for the best taste.
12) Breakfast Quesadilla
The breakfast quesadilla is a great way to start your day. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. All you need are tortillas, eggs, cheese, and your choice of fillings like bacon, sausage, or ham.
Begin by whisking your eggs with a splash of milk. This makes them extra fluffy. Cook the eggs in a skillet until they’re scrambled.
Heat a tortilla on the skillet and sprinkle cheese on top. Add your cooked eggs and any other fillings you like. Fold the tortilla over and cook until the cheese melts.
Using the air fryer can make this even easier. Just fill the tortilla, fold it, and pop it in the air fryer for a few minutes.
The breakfast quesadilla is perfect when you’re short on time. It’s quick to prepare, and you can customize it any way you like. Try adding salsa or avocado for extra flavor.
13) Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding)
Capirotada is a traditional Mexican bread pudding often enjoyed during Lent. Its rich flavors and unique texture make it a popular breakfast choice.
To prepare Capirotada, you start by toasting slices of bolillo or French bread. Lightly butter each slice and bake until golden brown.
Next, create a sweet syrup by boiling water, piloncillo (or brown sugar), cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Once the sugar dissolves, set the syrup aside to cool.
In a baking dish, layer the toasted bread slices. Add raisins, almonds, and pieces of cheese between the layers. Pour the syrup over the top, ensuring it soaks through the bread.
Bake the assembled Capirotada in a preheated oven, typically at 350°F (175°C), until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Capirotada is often served warm, but you can enjoy it at room temperature too. Its mix of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy elements creates a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and satisfying.
With its historical roots and delicious taste, Capirotada can be a delightful addition to your breakfast menu.
14) Nopales con Huevo
Nopales con Huevo is a traditional Mexican dish made with cactus and scrambled eggs.
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
Next, add diced nopales to the skillet. Cook them until they release their liquid and it cooks off. This usually takes about 3 minutes.
Whisk eggs in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Pour the eggs into the skillet with the nopales.
Cook, stirring every few seconds, until the eggs are light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
Serve Nopales con Huevo with warm tortillas, salsa, and avocado slices. It’s a great way to start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast.
15) Bean and Cheese Sopes
Bean and cheese sopes are a delicious and satisfying Mexican breakfast option. To make them, you start with a base of sopes, which are thick corn cakes made from masa dough. You can shape the dough by rolling it into balls and flattening it to about 1/4 inch thick.
Next, preheat a skillet or comal to medium heat and cook the sopes until they are golden and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Spread a generous layer of refried beans over the tops of the sopes. The beans add a creamy and hearty texture to the dish. Then, sprinkle a good amount of cheese over the beans. Queso fresco or a mild cheddar works well for this.
Return the sopes to the skillet and heat them just until the cheese melts. You can add toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, or pickled onions to enhance the flavor. Serve warm and enjoy a filling and flavorful breakfast.
16) Papas con Chorizo
Papas con Chorizo is a hearty and flavorful Mexican breakfast dish. It combines crispy potatoes with spicy Mexican chorizo for a satisfying start to your day.
To make Papas con Chorizo, start by cooking diced potatoes in a frying pan until they are tender and golden brown. Then, add crumbled chorizo to the pan, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Allow the chorizo to brown and release its flavorful oils. This usually takes about 8 minutes. You can also add diced onions if you like a bit more flavor.
Once the chorizo is fully cooked, mix it well with the potatoes so that all the flavors blend together. Season with a little salt to taste.
Serve Papas con Chorizo with warm tortillas. You can also add toppings like salsa, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra taste.
This dish is perfect for a cozy breakfast at home. With its combination of spices and textures, Papas con Chorizo is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite juice.
17) Chorizo and Potato Tacos
Chorizo and potato tacos are a delicious and hearty option for breakfast. You start by preparing the ingredients. Remove the casing from the chorizo sausage and break it into small pieces. Chop the potatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Shred some cheese for later.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook it until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chorizo and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped potatoes. Cook them for about 15 minutes until they are tender and crispy on the outside. Add the onions and peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
Mix the cooked chorizo back into the skillet with the potatoes, onions, and peppers. Cook everything together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
In a separate bowl, beat a few eggs and pour them into the skillet. Scramble the eggs with the chorizo and potato mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Once everything is cooked, spoon the mixture into warm tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Your chorizo and potato tacos are ready to enjoy.
18) Machaca con Huevo
Machaca con Huevo is a traditional Mexican dish that brings shredded beef and scrambled eggs together for a hearty meal.
To make this dish, you start by heating oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they are soft.
Next, add diced tomatoes and your choice of chile, like Serrano or jalapeño. Cook for a couple of minutes to mix the flavors.
Add the shredded beef, known as machaca, to the skillet. Stir to combine everything well. The beef should absorb the flavors and become slightly crispy.
Finally, crack eggs into the mixture and scramble until they are fully cooked. Serve hot with warm tortillas on the side.
Machaca con Huevo is perfect for breakfast but can also be enjoyed at any time of day. It pairs well with beans, rice, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
19) Huaraches
Huaraches are a delightful Mexican breakfast dish made with masa dough. They are named after the shape, which resembles the traditional Mexican sandal of the same name.
To make huaraches, divide the masa into equal portions. Flatten each portion between two sheets of parchment paper.
Cook the flattened masa on a hot griddle for about two minutes on each side. You can keep them warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Once cooked, top your huaraches with refried beans, scrambled eggs, queso, cilantro, and salsa. This combination creates a hearty and flavorful breakfast.
For an extra touch, lightly fry the huaraches in a bit of olive oil until they are crisp and golden brown on both sides. This adds a delicious crunch to the dish.
Enjoy your huaraches warm, and savor the mix of textures and flavors, which make for a fulfilling start to your day.
20) Mexican French Toast
Mexican French Toast, or torrejas, offers a unique twist on the classic French toast. It’s made with a syrup crafted from piloncillo, a type of unrefined cane sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. This syrup provides a rich, sweet flavor that sets it apart from traditional versions.
To make torrejas, start by preparing the syrup. Combine piloncillo, a cinnamon stick, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the piloncillo melts and turns into a thick syrup. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the syrup cool.
Next, prepare the bread. You’ll need thick slices, usually from a baguette or bolillo. Dip each slice into a mixture of beaten eggs until well coated.
Fry the soaked bread in hot oil until it turns golden-brown on each side. Once fried, soak the torrejas in the prepared syrup. Serve while warm, allowing the syrup to fully infuse the bread.
This dish combines a crispy exterior with a soft, syrup-soaked interior. The blend of spices in the syrup adds depth to the flavor, making Mexican French Toast a delightful breakfast option. Make sure to enjoy it fresh for the best taste.
Health Benefits Of Mexican Breakfasts
Mexican breakfasts are packed with nutrients and balanced ingredients that can contribute to a healthy diet. These meals are rich in proteins, fibers, vitamins, and healthy fats.
Nutritional Value
Protein: Many Mexican breakfast dishes like huevos rancheros and chorizo con huevo are high in protein. Eggs, beans, and meats provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair.
Fiber: Ingredients such as beans, corn tortillas, and vegetables offer dietary fiber. Fiber supports digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Vitamins: Mexican breakfasts often include vegetables and fruits. Tomatoes, avocados, and peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and E which are crucial for immune function and skin health.
Healthy Fats: Foods like avocados and olive oil used in cooking provide healthy fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and are vital for brain health.
Balanced Ingredients
Vegetables: Many dishes include veggies like onions, peppers, and tomatoes. These provide important nutrients and add flavor without excessive calories.
Whole Grains: Corn and whole wheat tortillas are common in Mexican breakfasts. Whole grains have more fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains, making them a heart-healthy choice.
Legumes: Beans are a staple in many recipes. They offer plant-based protein and are a good source of iron, which is important for preventing anemia.
Herbs and Spices: Spices such as cilantro, cumin, and chili add flavors without the need for extra salt or unhealthy additives. They also come with their own health benefits, like improved digestion and anti-inflammatory properties.
Common Ingredients In Mexican Breakfasts
Mexican breakfasts are known for their rich and varied flavors. Key ingredients include traditional spices that add boldness and popular proteins like eggs and chorizo that offer a hearty start to the day.
Traditional Spices
Spices are central to Mexican cooking, and breakfasts are no exception. Cumin and coriander are commonly used, giving dishes a warm and slightly smoky flavor. Chili powder and jalapeños bring heat and a touch of smokiness.
Another essential spice is oregano, particularly Mexican oregano, which has a slightly citrusy note. Paprika and cayenne pepper also find their way into many recipes, adding both color and heat.
Cinnamon is used in sweet breakfast dishes and drinks like horchata. This spice gives them a warm and aromatic quality that is unmistakable.
Popular Proteins
Proteins in Mexican breakfasts are varied and flavorful. Eggs are a staple, often scrambled or fried, and served in dishes such as huevos rancheros and migas. For a heartier option, chorizo, a spicy sausage, is frequently used. You might find it mixed with eggs to create flavorful breakfast burritos.
Beans, particularly black beans and pinto beans, are another cornerstone, often served alongside eggs or in breakfast tacos. Beef, especially shredded beef for dishes like machaca, provides another protein option that is both tender and flavorful.
Including proteins such as bacon, ham, and sometimes even chicken can add richness and diversity to the morning meal, ensuring that you start your day with something satisfying and delicious.
