Mexican Noodle Soup
Mexican noodle soup, known as Sopa de Fideo, is a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. This delightful soup combines toasted fideo noodles with a savory broth, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Noodle Soup
This Mexican noodle soup is loved for its simplicity and rich flavors. It is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With its mild yet satisfying taste, it caters to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys a bowl. The option to add chicken and corn enhances its nutritional value, making it both hearty and filling.

Sopa de Fideo
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 package (7 oz) fideo noodles
- 1/2 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Ingredients
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Additions
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken optional
- 1/2 cup frozen corn optional
Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime cut into wedges
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the fideo noodles and toast them, stirring constantly until they are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the toasted noodles from the pot and set them aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 2 minutes, until it starts to soften.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Cooking
- Add the broth, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the toasted noodles and optional shredded chicken and corn to the broth.
- Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
How to Make Mexican Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 package (7 oz) fideo noodles
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the fideo noodles and toast them, stirring constantly until they are golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the toasted noodles from the pot and set them aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 2 minutes, until it starts to soften.
- Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the broth, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the toasted noodles and optional shredded chicken and corn if using, to the broth.
- Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Mexican Noodle Soup
Serve Mexican noodle soup in deep bowls, making sure to add a generous amount of noodles and broth. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side. The lime adds a refreshing zing to the soup, enhancing its flavors. You can also offer tortilla chips as a crunchy side for added texture.
How to Store Mexican Noodle Soup
Store any leftover Mexican noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water, as the noodles will absorb some of the liquid over time.
Tips to Make Mexican Noodle Soup Perfect
- Toast the Noodles Properly: Ensure the fideo noodles are toasted until golden brown for added depth of flavor.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preference. Adding a pinch of chili powder can give it a little kick.
- Add Vegetables: For more nutrition, you can add diced bell peppers or carrots when sautéing the onion.
Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this Mexican noodle soup to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema just before serving for a creamier texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and high-quality broth for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while they simmer, as they can become mushy if overcooked.
- Serve Immediately: This soup is best served fresh. The longer it sits, the more the noodles will absorb the broth.
FAQs About Mexican Noodle Soup
Can I use other types of noodles instead of fideo?
Yes, you can use other thin pasta types like angel hair or vermicelli. Cooking time may vary, so ensure you adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the fideo noodles just before serving. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Mexican noodle soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just leave out the noodles if you intend to freeze it, as they do not freeze well. Store the broth and vegetables separately, and add fresh noodles when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Mexican noodle soup is a vibrant and nourishing dish that brings comfort in every bowl. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or share it with loved ones during gatherings, this delightful recipe is sure to please. With its easy preparation and ability to be customized, it’s a perfect addition to your recipe collection. So whip up a pot of this delicious soup and savor the warmth and flavors it delivers!
