Go Back
Cozy Mexican Noodle Soup, a quick and comforting meal featuring a rich broth and vibrant toppings, is shown in a featured image.

Mexican Noodle Soup (Sopa de Fideo)

This comforting Mexican Noodle Soup, known as Sopa de Fideo, is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish. Toasting the noodles and vegetables before simmering creates a rich, flavorful broth that's perfect for a cozy meal. Garnish with your favorite toppings for a customizable and delicious experience.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 ounces fideo pasta thin vermicelli
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Colander (optional, for draining tomatoes if using fresh)
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add fideo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and toasted, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Remove pasta from pot and set aside.
  3. Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Add the toasted fideo pasta back to the pot. Continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Stir in lime juice.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

Notes

For a richer flavor, roast the vegetables (onion, carrot, celery) before adding them to the pot. Use fresh tomatoes when in season for a brighter flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth upon refrigeration. Add more broth when reheating if needed. For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce along with the chili powder. To make a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.