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.