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Home » Recipes » Soups and Stews

Mexican Albondigas Recipe (Meatball Soup)

Published: Nov 21, 2022 by Bowl Me Over · 19 Comments

Caldo de Albóndigas Soup Recipe - Just like your favorite Mexican restaurant, this savory soup is rich and delicious!
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Authentic Albondigas Recipe. A savory stew stuffed with juicy meatballs, potatoes and carrots in a flavorful broth. The flavors of this traditional Mexican Meatball Soup are incredible and it's a big hearty meal!

Next time try this recipe for Authentic Posole Recipe.

Mexican Meatball Soup in cast iron bowls.
Traditional Mexican Albondigas Soup
Jump to:
  • ❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  
  • 🗒️ Ingredients
  • ⏲️  Instructions 
  • Equipment
  • 🙋‍♀️ FAQ's
  • 👍 Tips
  • Equipment
  • Storage
  • Serving suggestions
  • Related recipes
  • More great Mexican food recipes
  • Homemade Albondigas Soup Recipe

❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  

There are some delicious soups on the blog including these Mexican soups! Posole Recipe which is a rich pork and hominy stew, Chicken Posole Verde and Chicken Enchilada Soup. And this recipe for classic Mexican soup is no exception!

Although this is a hearty stew, it has a light broth. The chicken broth is flavored with spices vegetables and flavorful meatballs.

This delicious soup is the ultimate comfort food.

Leftovers are even better the next day! Now, that makes this a favorite soup!

Mexican Albondigas Soup
Classic flavors in this delicious Mexican Meatball Soup Recipe!

🗒️ Ingredients

For the exact measurements for the Mexican soup recipe, please refer to the card at the bottom of this post. 

  • ground beef - I use an 80/20% for the meatball mixture. Because these are baked, the fat will cook off and it adds so much in taste! If you'd prefer, use ground turkey or chicken!
  • pork sausage - gives richness to the meatballs.
  • onion - I like to use mild yellow onion in this soup, though you could substitute with a white or red onion.
  • fresh cilantro - serve this with plenty of chopped cilantro on the side.
  • salt, ground cumin, ground coriander and fresh garlic - all for earthiness and flavor!
  • uncooked rice - helps the meatballs hold together.
  • chicken broth - though you could use vegetable or beef stock, I recommend chicken, it gives this soup the BEST flavor!
  • russet potatoes - nice starchy potatoes, though you can really substitute with any potato - Yukon Gold, red potatoes, etc.
  • carrots - add just a touch of sweetness!

Optional toppings include a scoop of white rice, warm corn tortillas, diced white onion, cilantro, tortilla chips and lime wedges.

⏲️  Instructions 

This hearty soup is easy to make and you might even be able to get your kids in the kitchen with you to help make the meatballs and peeling the potatoes and carrots!

  1. Preheat the oven.
  2. Mix the meatball ingredients in a large bowl. Form the meat mixture into small balls (I use a small ice cream scoop). Place on sheet pan lined with parchment paper and bake the rice meatballs.
  3. While the meatballs are cooking peel and dice the potatoes, carrots and chop the onion.
  4. In a large stockpot, saute the vegetables, seasoning well.
  5. Add the chicken stock, increase the heat to high.
  6. When the meatballs are done, add them to the soup, simmer until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Making Mexican Albondigas Soup involves a few steps, but don't let that stop you! Meatball soup isn't hard to make, it's just a little more hands-on than some of my recipes. The reward is the meal because it's SO flavorful and delicious!

Equipment

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  • You'll need a good knife to slice and dice the vegetables.
  • Wooden spoon - this set is great as it includes a spoon, scraper and slotted spoon.
  • This is a great 6 quart stainless steel large pot. It's dishwasher safe and comes in several sizes. 

🙋‍♀️ FAQ's

What is albondigas?

Let's answer that question first! Albondigas is the Spanish word for meatballs.

What are Mexican meatballs made with?

Mexican meatballs are made with ground beef, pork or turkey and flavored with spices.

How many calories are in a Mexican Albondiga?

This soup makes eight servings with about 350 calories per serving.

Can you cook raw meatballs in the soup?

You can, but I recommend taking the extra step and baking them in the oven first. This eliminates excess grease from the meatballs getting into the soup. And boiling the meatballs in the soup may cause them to break apart.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Leftovers are better on day two! Mexican Albondigas Soup can be easily reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Well sealed, it will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I substitute with pre-made meatballs?

I get it, you're busy right? I understand completely. If you just don't have time to make the meatballs, substitute with spicy Italian meatballs. It won't have the same authentic flavor but it will still be delicious!

👍 Tips

  • This is a mild, savory soup. If you enjoy hot, spicy food and want an extra kick, add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper or a few dashes of Tobasco sauce, yum!
  • Cutting the potatoes and carrots into uniformly sized pieces will ensure they will be done at the same time.
  • I do not recommend freezing this soup. As the potatoes thaw they become mealy. Enjoy the soup fresh!

Tips to make delicious homemade meatballs!

  • Use a fork to mix the meatball ingredients. This helps keep the meatballs lighter and helps them to not get dense and overworked.
  • Make small meatballs, smaller than the size of a golf ball, remember they need to fit on a spoon.
  • Using a small ice cream scoop for the meatballs will ensure the meatballs be uniform in size, allowing them to cook in the same amount of time.
  • Meatballs aren't snowballs and they don't need to be "packed" together tightly, just press and form them into balls. The goal is tender meatballs. Over-mixing and packing will make them heavy and dense.
  • Use wet hands when forming the meatballs, they are less apt to stick to your hands.

I get it, you're busy right? I understand completely. If you just don't have time to make the meatballs, substitute with spicy Italian meatballs. It won't have the same authentic flavor but it will still be delicious and a great meal for dinner tonight!!

Mexican Meatball soup in black bowl with spoon
Grab your spoon and dig in you'll love this traditional Mexican Soup!

Equipment

The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

  • large dutch oven
  • ladle

Storage

Refrigerate - store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days.

Freezer - Leftovers freeze just ok. The potatoes may get a bit mealy however (freezing changes the texture of potatoes).

Reheat - in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving suggestions

  • Top the soup with minced white onions, cilantro and crumbled queso fresco.
  • Spice up the soup with thinly sliced jalapeño chile.
  • If you're looking for more terrific recipes to serve alongside your meal give this Green Chile Chicken Enchilada recipe a try. All the flavor without the fuss of rolling the enchiladas!
  • Layered Ground Beef Taco Dip - this is how the party gets started!

Related recipes

Here are more of my favorite soups from the blog!

  • My Mom's recipe for easy Taco Soup (which is totally the BEST!!) is made with pantry staples you have on hand. It's simple and delicious!
  • Get back to life and outa of the kitchen when you breakout the crockpot and make Chicken Taco Soup! Loads of great flavor and everyone will be begging for seconds!
  • Instant Pot Chili - when you're in the mood for warm chili spices and a meal that won't take all day to make, this is the one!
  • Love Chicken Soup? Me too! This one has a wonderful chipotle flavor and ONLY takes 30 minutes to make!

More great Mexican food recipes

  • This layered Ground Beef Taco Dip is a perfect for parties and movie night.
  • Queso Chicken Enchiladas - delicious, cheesy and easy to make this recipe is a crowd pleaser!
  • We absolutely love all the freshness in this easy Mexican fruit salad recipe. It's a favorite all year long.
  • Mexican Martini Recipe - like a great Martini, except with tequila - delicious!
  • Check this out for all the BEST Mexican Party Food Recipes. It's packed with 60+ excellent recipes.

Do you know someone who loves soup? Check out my soup makers gift guide! Or for all my best soup making tips and tricks - Homemade Soup; A Complete Guide!

Traditional Mexican Albondigas Soup in black bowl topped with diced onions, cilantro and lime.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
5 from 15 votes

Homemade Albondigas Soup Recipe

Caldo de Albóndigas Soup Recipe - Just like your favorite Mexican restaurant, this savory soup is rich and delicious!
Prevent your screen from going dark
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Total Time55 mins
Course: Lunch or Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 353kcal
Author: Deb Clark
Cost: $12
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ingredients

  • For the meatballs
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ⅓ pound pork sausage
  • ¼ cup onion minced
  • 2 tablespoon cilantro minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon corriander
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ¼ cup rice
  • For the soup
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • 3 potatoes russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 carrots peeled and diced
  • 1 onion chopped (I used the remainder of the onion)
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon corriander
  • Optional garnishes - shredded cabbage, sliced radishes and lime wedges.

I earn a commission from Instacart from qualifying purchases.

Instructions

  • For the meatballs, start by preheat the oven to 375°
  • Mince the onion and garlic. Then add all of the meatball ingredients to a large mixing bowl. Mix together the ingredients until well combined.
  • Line a baking sheet with tin foil (makes clean up much easier!) Using a small ice cream scoop, form the meatballs and place on the cookie sheet. You should get about 40 meatballs.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. They will finish cooking in the soup.
  • For the Soup
  • While the meatballs are baking, peel and dice the potatoes, carrot and onion.
  • Place a large stockpot over medium heat. When hot add olive oil and vegetables.
  • Season with salt, cumin, corriander - saute for 5 minutes. Add garlic and saute for another minute.
  • Increase heat to high, add chicken stock and bring to a boil.
  • When the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven.
  • Lower the heat to medium and place the prepared meatballs in the soup. Continue cooking until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
  • Ladle soup into big bowls and top with shredded cabbage, sliced radishes and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

Optional toppings include a scoop of white rice, diced white onion, cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Tips to make tender meatballs!
  • Use a fork to mix the meatball ingredients. This helps keep the meatballs lighter and keeps the meat from getting dense and overworked.
  • Using a small ice cream scoop will ensure the meatballs be uniform in size. This will allow them to finish cooking in the same amount of time.
  • To get tender meatballs, don't pack the meat together tightly, just press and form them into balls. Over-mixing and packing will make them heavy and dense.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 353kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 732mg | Potassium: 831mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 3840IU | Vitamin C: 12.8mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 4.6mg
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About Bowl Me Over

Welcome to Bowl Me Over! My name is Debra and I send warm greetings from sunny California. I am a serious foodie – I’ve been known as the go-to girl in our family for years, catering weddings and anniversary parties. In the summer I help cook mountains of food for our family reunions. Often times things I create end up in a bowl, hence the name Bowl Me Over! Let's stay connected, you can email me at [email protected] and find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Paige

    October 12, 2020 at 12:47 pm

    I LOVE this soup, and your version looks SO good!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      October 12, 2020 at 6:53 pm

      Thanks Paige, I hope you give it a try soon!

      Reply
  2. Lois

    January 17, 2020 at 6:56 pm

    5 stars
    We had this for dinner today and it was wonderful. So tasty and just wonderful flavors.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      January 19, 2020 at 2:18 pm

      Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed this recipe!!

      Reply
  3. Kathy

    January 14, 2020 at 4:19 pm

    5 stars
    This is one of my all time favorite soups! Delicious and everyone in my family loves it.

    Reply
  4. Angela

    September 24, 2019 at 8:43 am

    5 stars
    Oh wow, this sounds really great. Big flavors but easy to make, I love that!!

    Reply
  5. Julie Menghini

    September 23, 2019 at 7:02 pm

    5 stars
    Mexican flavors are my favorite and I can eat soup every single day. John and I are going to love this one. Albondigas is becoming more widely known here and your version is going to wow my family!

    Reply
  6. Jennifer A Stewart

    July 02, 2019 at 10:41 am

    5 stars
    I remember trying this in every Mexican restaurant I went to in Arizona, and it was still never as good as this recipe. Making it at home is helping me save money too!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 02, 2019 at 10:42 pm

      That's awesome Jennifer! I love this soup and I'm so glad you're enjoying this recipe!

      Reply
  7. Nikki

    July 02, 2019 at 4:44 am

    5 stars
    This was absolutely amazing! I love all things Mexican. All the flavors come together perfectly. Will be making this on often!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 02, 2019 at 10:43 pm

      Yay! We really love it too - I'm so glad you are enjoying this recipe!

      Reply
  8. Lisa Hitzeman

    July 01, 2019 at 6:51 am

    5 stars
    I've never heard of this albondigas soup, but I can't wait to try it! It looks and sounds SO delicious!

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 02, 2019 at 10:44 pm

      Thanks Lisa - I hope you give it a try soon!

      Reply
  9. Julie Menghini

    June 30, 2019 at 5:39 pm

    5 stars
    I love soup year round and this soup sounds amazing. I love that you recommend baking them to remove grease up front. This soup will be delish without being greasy.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 02, 2019 at 10:46 pm

      Thank you Julie!

      Reply
  10. Kathy

    June 30, 2019 at 7:19 am

    5 stars
    This is one of my favorite soups! Albondigas soup is so tasty and comforting and your recipe is amazing! A very nice addition to my repertoire.

    Reply
  11. debi at Life Currents

    June 30, 2019 at 6:38 am

    5 stars
    This looks so good! I love anything Mexican flavor, so this is perfect for me! I'll make mine with veggie meatballs. Yum!

    Reply
  12. Healing Tomato

    June 29, 2019 at 2:41 pm

    5 stars
    This looks like a soul warming soup! I can't wait to try it.

    Reply
    • Bowl Me Over

      July 02, 2019 at 10:48 pm

      Mostly definitely, enjoy!

      Reply

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