Hearty, flavorful, and authentically Mexican
If you’ve ever wanted to experience a warm, comforting, and flavorful Mexican meal, albondigas soup is the perfect choice. These tender meatballs in a rich, savory broth are a staple in Mexican households and celebrations. With this guide, you’ll learn the ultimate albóndigas soup recipe that’s easy to follow and bursting with authentic flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy dinner night, this soup will impress with its hearty ingredients, rich spices, and comforting aroma.
What Is Albóndigas Soup?
Albóndigas soup is a traditional Mexican dish featuring meatballs (usually beef or pork) in a flavorful broth, accompanied by rice, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The word “albondigas” comes from the Arabic term “al-bunduq,” meaning “hazelnut,” referencing the shape and size of the meatballs.
This dish is:
Comforting & hearty – perfect for chilly evenings
Nutritious – packed with vegetables and protein
Family-friendly – loved by both kids and adults
Customizable – adjust spices, veggies, and protein to taste
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs (Albondigas)
1 lb ground beef (or mix beef & pork)
½ cup cooked rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cumin
For the Broth
6 cups beef or chicken stock
2 carrots, diced
2 zucchini, diced
2 potatoes, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tomato, chopped or ½ cup tomato puree
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Albóndigas Soup Recipe
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, cilantro, salt, pepper, and cumin.
Mix until evenly combined.
Shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
Heat a large pot over medium heat with a little oil.
Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add chopped tomato and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Pour in the stock and bring to a boil.
Add carrots, potatoes, zucchini, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Gently add the meatballs to the boiling broth.
Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes.
Meatballs should be cooked through, and vegetables tender.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Serve hot with warm tortillas or crusty bread.
Optional: add a squeeze of lime for extra freshness.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Albóndigas Soup
Use cooked rice in meatballs – helps them stay tender and cohesive.
Don’t overcrowd the pot – meatballs cook evenly when they have space.
Simmer gently – high heat can make meatballs fall apart.
Customize vegetables – corn, green beans, or chayote add authentic flair.
Make ahead – the soup tastes even better the next day.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Albóndigas Soup – add chopped jalapeños or chipotle for heat.
Low-Carb Version – replace rice in meatballs with cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian Albóndigas – use lentils or black beans shaped into balls.
Mexican-Style Tomato Broth – blend tomatoes, roasted garlic, and onions for a richer base.
Serving Suggestions
Warm corn tortillas or crusty bread
Side of Mexican rice or avocado slices
Fresh lime wedges to squeeze into soup
Sprinkle of cotija cheese or extra cilantro for garnish
Final Thoughts
This ultimate albóndigas soup recipe brings authentic Mexican flavor right into your kitchen. Hearty meatballs, tender vegetables, and aromatic broth combine into a comforting, wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a family favorite.
A bowl of albóndigas soup is more than food—it’s Mexican warmth, flavor, and tradition in every spoonful 🥣🇲🇽✨