Mexican Noodle Soup with Potato, Beans, and Ground Beef

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Mexican Noodle Soup with Potato, Beans, and Ground Beef (Sopa de Fideo con Papas, Frijoles y Carne Molida) 🍲🥔

Introduction

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a steaming bowl of Sopa de Fideo, a beloved Mexican noodle soup. This version is hearty and filling, featuring tender potatoes, protein-rich beans, and flavorful ground beef simmered in a tomato-based broth. The toasted fideo noodles add a warm nuttiness, while spices like cumin and oregano give the dish its signature depth.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings the flavors of a Mexican abuela’s kitchen straight to your table. Serve it with warm tortillas and lime wedges for the ultimate comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and nourishing – With beef, beans, and potatoes, it’s a full meal in one bowl.
  • Authentic flavors – Toasted fideo noodles and classic Mexican spices make it taste like home.
  • Customizable – Use pinto or black beans, ground beef or turkey, and adjust the heat to your liking.
  • Budget-friendly – Simple pantry ingredients turn into a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

  • ½ lb ground beef
  • 1 cup fideo noodles (or vermicelli/thin spaghetti, broken into small pieces)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 🥔
  • ½ cup cooked pinto beans (or substitute black beans)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
  • 1 large tomato, chopped 🍅
  • 4 cups beef broth (or water for a lighter version)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish 🌿
  • Lime wedges, for serving (optional) 🍋

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned (5–7 minutes).
  • Remove and set aside.

2. Toast the Fideo

  • In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
  • Add the fideo noodles and toast, stirring often, until golden brown (3–4 minutes).
  • Remove and set aside to prevent burning.

✨ Toasting the fideo deepens the flavor and gives the soup its signature taste.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

  • Add onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
  • Stir in the chopped tomato and cook another 2–3 minutes until it breaks down into a sauce.

4. Simmer the Soup

  • Add diced potatoes, cumin, oregano, and beef broth.
  • Sprinkle in a pinch of salt.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

5. Add Beans, Beef & Fideo

  • Stir in the cooked beef, beans, and toasted fideo.
  • Simmer another 5–7 minutes, until noodles are soft and flavors combine.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper.

6. Serve

  • Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
  • Warm tortillas make the perfect dipping companion. 🌮

Expert Tips & Variations

  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes when sautéing the onion.
  • Healthier swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and double the beans for a protein-packed veggie version.
  • Extra depth: Blend the tomato with the onion and garlic before simmering for a smoother broth.

Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: 19g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbs: 36g
  • Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use pasta instead of fideo?
Yes! If you can’t find fideo, break thin spaghetti or vermicelli into 1-inch pieces.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but note that noodles absorb broth as they sit. Add extra broth when reheating.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Q4: Can I freeze it?
It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the fideo. Cook noodles fresh when reheating for the best texture.

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