Mexican Albóndigas Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting soup featuring tender, spiced meatballs simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable broth. Albóndigas, which means “meatballs” in Spanish, are traditionally made with a mixture of ground beef or pork, rice, and aromatic seasonings. This soup is a classic Mexican home-cooked dish that’s nourishing, cozy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings.

The combination of tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a subtly spiced tomato broth creates a deliciously balanced soup that warms both body and soul. It’s wholesome, comforting, and deeply satisfying—an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine in every spoonful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both hearty and comforting while still fresh and vibrant. The tender meatballs are perfectly seasoned, and the broth is enriched with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of spices.

It’s a soup that feels indulgent but is actually packed with nutritious ingredients, making it ideal for weeknight meals, family gatherings, or meal prep.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Balanced flavors: Savory meatballs meet a fresh vegetable-rich broth.
• Comforting and hearty: Perfect for cozy dinners.
• Nutritious and wholesome: Packed with protein, vegetables, and fiber from rice.
• Versatile: Can be served as a starter or a filling main course.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, mild yet flavorful.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Meatballs (Albondigas):

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape into small meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare Soup Base

1. Add carrots, zucchini, potato, and green beans to the pot.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, and broth.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook Meatballs in Soup

1. Carefully drop meatballs into the simmering soup.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.
2. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method (Summary)

1. Mix ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, and spices; form into meatballs.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables, diced tomatoes, spices, and broth; bring to boil.
4. Add meatballs and simmer until cooked through.
5. Adjust seasoning, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with a wedge of lime.
• Optional: Top with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of queso fresco.
• Pair with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly chopped vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
• Simmer meatballs gently to keep them tender.
• Cook rice separately or use leftover rice; uncooked rice can become too soft if overcooked in the soup.
• For a slightly spicier version, add ½ teaspoon chili powder or a diced jalapeño.
• This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Variations

1. Spicy Albóndigas Soup: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle in adobo.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace meatballs with lentil or chickpea “meatballs.”
3. Mexican-Style Twist: Add corn kernels or black beans for extra texture.
4. Slow Cooker Version: Brown meatballs and then add all ingredients to a slow cooker; cook on low for 4–6 hours.
5. Rice-Free Soup: Omit rice from meatballs for a lighter, low-carb version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (with or without meatballs) in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl for meatballs
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle

FAQ

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, replace meatballs with lentil or chickpea balls and use vegetable broth.

Q: Can I cook the meatballs separately?
A: Yes, you can bake or pan-fry them and add to the soup just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this soup with meatballs?
A: Yes, freeze in portions. Meatballs hold up well when cooked in the broth.

Conclusion

Mexican Albóndigas Soup with Meatballs is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines tender, spiced meatballs with fresh vegetables in a savory tomato broth. Easy to make, nutritious, and family-friendly, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or sharing with friends and family. The blend of textures, spices, and fresh herbs ensures every spoonful is delicious and satisfying—a true taste of authentic Mexican home cooking.