Name: Hearty Sopa de Albondigas (Meatball Soup) for Comforting Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (Ground turkey or chicken can lighten things up.); 1 Egg (Essential for structure.); ½ cup Soft Breadcrumbs (Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.); 2 tbsp Mint Leaves (Substitute basil or parsley if needed.); 2 tbsp Cilantro (Use more for garnish as well.); 1 Onion (Provides aromatic base flavor.); Salt & Pepper (Adjust to your taste.); 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Olive or avocado oil work beautifully as alternatives.); 6 cups Beef Broth (Use homemade or low-sodium store-bought broth for optimal flavor.); 1 Tomato (Canned diced tomatoes can be a great backup.); 1 Huisquil (Chayote) (Substitute with zucchini if you can't find it.); 1 Carrot (Experiment with other root veggies if desired.)

On chilly evenings, I find refuge in a bowl of hearty Sopa de Albóndigas, a traditional Guatemalan meatball soup that’s more than just comfort food—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. This delightful dish features tender meatballs mingling with vibrant vegetables, making it a satisfying option for both cozy nights and summer gatherings. What’s even better? It’s low-carb and easy to whip up, meaning you can enjoy this nourishing meal without added stress. As I pour the rich broth filled with fresh herbs, I can’t help but wonder: will you add your own special twist to this beloved recipe?

Why is Sopa de Albóndigas So Special?

Rich, Comforting Flavor: This Guatemalan meatball soup delivers a hearty and satisfying dish that envelops you in warmth from the very first spoonful.

Quick to Prepare: With a straightforward process, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to make it your own, enhancing appeal for everyone’s taste buds.

Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for those following a low-carb diet, this comforting soup remains guilt-free while still delivering on nutrition and flavor.

Cultural Experience: Not just a meal, Sopa de Albóndigas carries rich family traditions from Guatemala, inviting you to explore its delightful heritage.

Pair this dish with some fresh avocado slices and lime wedges for an exhilarating touch. If you’re curious about other comforting dishes, check out our Wholesome Soup Recipes for more easy ideas!

Sopa de Albóndigas Ingredients

• Get ready to dive into a delicious meatball soup!

For the Meatballs
Lean Ground Beef – Provides a savory base for tender meatballs; ground turkey or chicken can lighten things up.
Egg – Binds the meat mixture together; essential for structure.
Soft Breadcrumbs – Adds texture to meatballs; substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Mint Leaves – Fresh herb that enhances flavor; substitute basil or parsley if needed.
Cilantro – Fresh notes add depth to the soup; use more for garnish as well.
Onion – Provides aromatic base flavor; can’t go wrong with this classic ingredient.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste.
For the Soup
Vegetable Oil – Ideal for sautéing the base veggies; olive or avocado oil work beautifully as alternatives.
Beef Broth – Forms the soup base; use homemade or low-sodium store-bought broth for optimal flavor.
Tomato – Adds moisture and flavor to the meatballs; canned diced tomatoes can be a great backup.
Huisquil (Chayote) – Unique taste and texture; substitute with zucchini if you can’t find it.
Carrot – Brings sweetness and a pop of color; experiment with other root veggies if desired.

This hearty Sopa de Albóndigas (Meatball Soup) is a comforting dish just waiting to be enjoyed!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sopa de Albóndigas (Meatball Soup)

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced tomato, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled sautéed vegetables with 1 pound of lean ground beef, 2 tablespoons of chopped mint, 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro, 1 beaten egg, ½ cup of soft breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors and ease rolling.

Step 3: Form Meatballs
After chilling, use your hands to shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. This process should yield around 20 meatballs, perfect for your hearty Sopa de Albóndigas.

Step 4: Prepare Broth
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of beef broth to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, decrease the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently. This flavorful broth will serve as the comforting base of your Sopa de Albóndigas, ready to embrace the meatballs and vegetables.

Step 5: Cook Meatballs
With the broth simmering, gently drop the formed meatballs into the pot, ensuring they’re submerged. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs float to the surface, signifying they’re fully cooked and tender. This is where your savory meatballs infuse the broth with delightful flavors!

Step 6: Finish Soup
Add 1 diced huisquil and 1 julienned carrot to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your warm, hearty Sopa de Albóndigas garnished with the remaining cilantro and mint for a fresh finish.

How to Store and Freeze Sopa de Albóndigas

Fridge: Store your Sopa de Albóndigas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove to preserve flavors, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Sopa de Albóndigas, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add fresh herbs when serving for that vibrant flavor kick!

What to Serve with Hearty Sopa de Albóndigas?

On chilly evenings, pairing your warm Sopa de Albóndigas with delightful accompaniments will elevate your meal to new heights.

Fresh Avocado Slices:
Creamy avocado adds a rich, smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich broth. Plus, it brings a healthy fat that’s perfect for any meal.
Lime Wedges:
A squeeze of fresh lime brightens the flavors, adding a zesty burst that complements the savory meatballs. It’s a simple touch that refreshes every spoonful.
Homemade Corn Tortillas:
Soft and warm tortillas are perfect for scooping up meatballs or enjoying with the broth. They create a wholesome, filling experience that rounds out the meal.
Simple Salad:
A light green salad with crisp lettuce and seasonal vegetables offers a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness of the soup. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to awaken the flavors.
Spicy Salsa:
Add a kick with a homemade salsa. The vibrant flavors can bring a delightful heat that enhances the savoriness of the soup. A symphony of flavor awaits!
Sparkling Water:
This refreshing drink will cleanse your palate and provide a light, fizzy complement to the comforting soup. Infuse with a touch of lime for added zest.
Coconut Flan:
A silky dessert to finish your meal on a sweet note. The creamy coconut flan meshes well with the robust flavors of Sopa de Albóndigas, bringing a touch of tropical sweetness.

Let your meal be a joyous embrace of flavors and textures—what will you pair with your hearty Sopa de Albóndigas?

Expert Tips for Sopa de Albóndigas

Chill the Mixture: Keeping the meat mixture chilled before forming meatballs helps prevent them from falling apart while cooking.
Gentle Cooking: Simmer the soup gently to ensure your meatballs hold their shape and remain tender. Boiling can lead to tough meatballs.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh herbs like mint and cilantro as they enhance the flavor profile of your Sopa de Albóndigas significantly.
Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture; doing so can result in dense and chewy meatballs.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables if huisquil or carrots aren’t available, enhancing the nutritional value of your soup!
Store Properly: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Just reheat gently before serving.

Variations & Substitutions for Sopa de Albóndigas

Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish! Use these variations to make Sopa de Albóndigas uniquely yours.

Healthy Twist: Add leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color. These greens wilt beautifully and pack a nutritious punch.
Dairy-Free: Substitute any beef broth with vegetable broth and use ground turkey for a lighter option. This switch keeps the flavor intact while catering to dietary needs.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate lime juice or zest just before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor. The citrus enhances the soup and balances the richness of the meatballs.
Flavor Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cumin to the meat mixture for a warm, smoky depth in your meatballs. This addition brings an exciting twist to the traditional recipe!
Veggie Lover: Replace the huisquil and carrot with a mix of seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. They’ll provide different textures and flavors that complement the soup perfectly.
Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the soup to kick up the heat level. Adjust according to your taste, and enjoy that spicy warmth!
Protein-Packed: If you’re looking for extra protein, mix in some canned beans like black beans or chickpeas during cooking. They not only enrich the dish but also make it heartier.
Low-Carb Variants: To keep it low-carb, try spiralized vegetables like zucchini or squash instead of traditional root vegetables. These light alternatives keep the dish fresh and healthy.

For more delicious ideas and inspiration, don’t forget to explore our Healthy Soup Recipes!

Make Ahead Options

These Sopa de Albóndigas (Meatball Soup) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, helping to enhance the flavors while saving you precious cooking time. Simply sauté the vegetables, combine them with the other ingredients, and chill the mixture. Additionally, the formed meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you have ready-to-cook delights at hand. When ready to serve, just drop them into simmering broth and add your preferred vegetables. This method guarantees that your Sopa de Albóndigas remains just as delicious while keeping your weeknights stress-free!

Sopa de Albóndigas Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for Sopa de Albóndigas?
Absolutely! For a hearty Sopa de Albóndigas, ensure your ground beef has a good fat content (around 80/20) for moist meatballs. Choose fresh herbs like mint and cilantro—they make a world of difference! Inspect tomatoes for firmness and vibrant color; avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. Remember, fresh veggies should be bright and crisp!

What is the best way to store Sopa de Albóndigas?
Storage is key! You can keep your Sopa de Albóndigas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently over low heat when you’re ready to enjoy. If you notice the broth thickening, adding a splash of beef broth can revitalize it beautifully.

Can I freeze Sopa de Albóndigas?
Of course! To freeze your delicious Sopa de Albóndigas, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use your microwave’s defrost setting.

Why are my meatballs falling apart in the soup?
A common hiccup! To prevent that, make sure to chill your meat mixture before forming the meatballs; this helps them hold their shape during cooking. Also, be gentle when dropping them into the broth. If they still fall apart, they might have been overmixed; a light hand is best!

Are there any dietary considerations for Sopa de Albóndigas?
Absolutely! This Sopa de Albóndigas is a great low-carb option, making it suitable for those on keto diets. Always check for allergies—some may be sensitive to herbs like cilantro. If you have pets, remember that onion can be harmful to them, so keep the leftovers out of reach!

Can I customize the vegetables in Sopa de Albóndigas?
Very much so! Feel free to swap out traditional veggies for your favorites! For example, if you can’t find huisquil, zucchini makes a fantastic substitute. You can also add seasonal vegetables like green beans or squash—get creative with what you have!