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Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup)

Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup)

350kcal
Prep 20 minutes
Cook 1 hour
Total 1 hour 20 minutes
A heartwarming Albondigas Soup with savory meatballs and fresh veggies, perfect for cozy dinners.
Servings 6 servings
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mexican

Ingredients

Soup Base
  • 4 tomatoes Roma Roasting these intensifies their sweetness and flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic adds a fragrant punch to the soup.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Use extra virgin for the best taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Helps bring out the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground adds a subtle warmth.
  • 1 medium Yellow onions Sautéing these adds sweetness.
  • 2 medium Carrots Adds natural sweetness.
  • 2 stalks Celery Provides crunchy texture.
  • 2 medium Russet potatoes Creates heartiness in the soup.
  • 6 cups Chicken broth Low sodium keeps flavors balanced.
Meatballs
  • 1 pound Lean ground beef Rich flavor.
  • 1 pound Ground turkey Keeps the dish lean.
  • 1 small Finely chopped onion Adds moisture.
  • 1 cup Cooked white rice Helps bind the meatballs.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Adds robust flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Brightens the meatballs.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh mint Offers a unique twist.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Gives a fresh finish.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Reinforces seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Optional for heat.
  • 1 large Eggs Helps bind the meatballs.
Finish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro For garnish.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice Adds zing.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Blender
  • Pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl

Method

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Place halved Roma tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 20–25 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
  3. Transfer the roasted tomatoes to a blender, add half of the minced garlic, and blend until smooth.
  4. In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes for 8–10 minutes until softened.
  5. Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables.
  6. Add chicken broth (or water), remaining salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, finely chopped onion, cooked rice, garlic, parsley, mint, cilantro, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and eggs. Mix gently until combined.
  8. Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1–1.5 tablespoons each.
  9. Drop the meatballs into the simmering soup. Cover and let them cook for about 25–30 minutes until cooked through and vegetables are tender.
  10. Stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving1bowlCalories350kcalCarbohydrates32gProtein28gFat15gSaturated Fat4gPolyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat10gCholesterol90mgSodium900mgPotassium800mgFiber4gSugar5gVitamin A2500IUVitamin C30mgCalcium50mgIron3mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful accompaniment.

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