Mexican Meatball Soup

Mexican Meatball Soup, or Albondigas Soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth filled with vegetables and spices. It’s the perfect comfort food, whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking for a satisfying, one-pot meal. Packed with bold Mexican flavors, this soup is as wholesome as it is delicious!

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Why You’ll Love This Mexican Meatball Soup

• Hearty and Filling: Loaded with meatballs, veggies, and rice for a complete meal in a bowl.
• Bursting with Flavor: A savory broth infused with Mexican spices.
• Easy to Make: Minimal prep with a simple cooking process.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Mexican Meatball Soup

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1/3 cup uncooked rice
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 6 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl: For preparing the meatballs.
• Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup.
• Spoon or scoop: To form the meatballs.

How to Make Mexican Meatball Soup

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or chicken, uncooked rice, egg, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until just combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin and chili powder, cooking for another 30 seconds to release the spices’ aroma.

Step 3: Build the Broth
5. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and corn to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
6. Gently drop the prepared meatballs into the simmering broth. Cover and let the soup cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs and rice are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this soup with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for extra richness.
• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Mexican Meatball Soup

• Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs tough, so mix gently.
• Customize Your Veggies: Swap in green beans, spinach, or sweet potatoes based on what you have.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne if you like some heat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the soup and refrigerate it. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.

Q2: Can I use cooked rice in the meatballs?
A: You can, but reduce the simmering time slightly since the rice is already cooked.

Q3: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Skip the meatballs and add more vegetables, beans, or even tofu for a plant-based version.

Conclusion: A Cozy, Flavorful Bowl of Comfort!

Mexican Meatball Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Make it today and enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g

Serve up a bowl of this flavorful soup and watch it disappear in no time!

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