There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a bowl of Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe that brings both comfort and joy to the table. This traditional Mexican dish brims with tender meatballs nestled in a savory, vibrant broth filled with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, balancing fresh ingredients with homestyle cooking that’s simple yet bursting with flavor. If you’re looking to dive into authentic Mexican culinary traditions or just want a satisfying homemade soup, this recipe is a true gem that you’ll crave again and again.

Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on your Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but far from ordinary. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building the rich meatball texture, adding color and freshness, or layering bold flavors that make this soup unforgettable.

Lean ground beef (1 lb / 450 g): The star protein that forms tender, juicy meatballs.
Long-grain rice (¼ cup / 50 g): Adds a delightful texture and helps bind the meatballs together.
Egg (1 medium): A natural binder that keeps everything perfectly cohesive.
Garlic cloves (4 total; 2 grated, 2 chopped): Infuses an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
Fresh cilantro (3 tablespoons chopped, plus a handful extra): Brings bright, citrusy freshness that is signature to Mexican cuisine.
Fresh mint leaves (2 tablespoons chopped): Adds an unexpected but refreshing herbal note to the meatballs.
Fresh oregano (1 tablespoon chopped, plus 2 tablespoons finely chopped): Gives a warm, slightly bitter essence that rounds out the soup.
Salt (½ teaspoon) and ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing vegetables to develop sweetness and richness.
Onion (1 medium, diced): Builds a flavorful base with its natural sweetness.
Carrot (1 medium, diced or sliced): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery stalks (2-3, diced): Provides a subtle aromatic crunch.
Potatoes (1 ½ cups, cut into ½-inch cubes): Adds heartiness and soak up the broth deliciously.
Zucchini (1 medium, cut into ½-inch cubes): Offers tender, mild vegetable flavor and color contrast.
Green beans (1 cup, sliced): A crisp, fresh vegetable element that brightens the soup.
Tomato sauce or passata (1 ½ cups / 330 ml): Brings a rich, tangy base that ties the whole soup together.
Beef stock (6 cups / 1.5 liters): Creates the hearty, savory broth that carries all the flavors.

How to Make Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

Start by combining ground beef, rice, egg, garlic, cilantro, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. The rice is key because it adds a lovely bite and keeps each meatball tender and moist. Mix everything just until combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Use a small scoop or your hands to form uniform meatballs, then chill them in the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

In a big stockpot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing for 8 to 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their sweetness. Toss in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until the kitchen smells amazing and fragrant. This foundational step builds rich flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Next, add potatoes, zucchini, green beans, tomato sauce, fresh oregano, and beef stock. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. This is where the soup begins to take shape, with the tomato sauce coloring the broth a beautiful, inviting red. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer to bring out the full depth of flavor.

Step 4: Add Meatballs to the Soup

Carefully lower the chilled meatballs into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let everything cook together for 20 minutes. This simmering not only cooks the meatballs through but also allows their flavors to meld with the vegetables and broth, creating a perfectly balanced dish.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

To finish, stir in a handful of fresh cilantro for that signature Mexican freshness. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch brightens and elevates the flavors, making every spoonful magical.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe into warm bowls and get ready to savor each comforting bite. The combination of tender meatballs, fresh veggies, and fragrant broth makes this dish feel like a celebration of home cooking.

How to Serve Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime really wakes up the flavors. You can also add thinly sliced radishes for a peppery crunch or a dollop of Mexican crema for a creamy contrast. These little extras make every bowl feel personalized and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the broth. A simple avocado salad or pickled jalapeños alongside can add a refreshing bite and texture contrast to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the soup in individual rustic bowls with a sprinkling of crumbly queso fresco on top. Adding avocado slices or a few tortilla strips makes the dish visually vibrant and more fun to eat. These touches keep the experience exciting and show off your creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup without any trouble. For best results, cool the soup thoroughly, place it in a freezer-safe container (separating the meatballs and broth if possible), and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If the soup seems too thick after refrigerating or freezing, add a splash of beef stock or water to loosen it up. Taste again for seasoning and adjust if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind the texture will be a bit different—often leaner and more delicate—so handle the meatballs gently and avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to add rice to the meatballs?

The rice helps bind the meatballs and gives them a lovely texture so they don’t fall apart in the soup. You can leave it out for a gluten-free version, but you may want to add an extra egg or some breadcrumbs instead to keep them firm.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

While the traditional recipe relies on beef meatballs and beef stock, you can create a vegetarian version by substituting meatballs made from beans or lentils and using vegetable stock. It will be a different flavor experience but still delicious and comforting.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs should simmer for about 20 minutes until they are cooked through and tender. You can test by cutting one open—it should be no longer pink inside. Cooking gently over medium heat helps them stay juicy.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers depending on your taste and seasonal availability. The soup is very flexible and welcomes your favorite fresh produce.

Final Thoughts

Making Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Recipe at home is truly a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen and heart with warmth. It’s a dish that brings people together and reminds you of simple, satisfying home cooking. Whether cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!