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A close-up, top-down view of a hearty albondigas soup recipe in a dark ceramic bowl, brimming with meatballs, carrots, zucchini, potatoes, and fresh herbs.

Albondigas Soup

A rich and comforting traditional Mexican meatball soup, Albondigas is packed with tender beef meatballs, vegetables, and a savory tomato broth — perfect for a cozy family meal any night of the week.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1/2 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups Russet potatoes, cubed
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 15 oz canned diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 large zucchini, sliced
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large pot or Dutch oven At least 6-quart capacity.
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

  1. Place ground beef, rice, garlic, egg, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Roll into 3/4-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and carrots for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Gently add meatballs to simmering soup. Cook for 10 minutes at a gentle simmer.
  7. Add zucchini and cook for 5 more minutes until just tender.
  8. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Use ground turkey or a beef/pork blend for variation. Quinoa can replace rice. Add corn, green beans, or bell pepper for more vegetables. For a spicier version, stir in jalapeño or chili flakes. Use chicken or vegetable broth as substitutes for beef broth.