Mexican Sopa de Fideo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the definition of comfort food: warm, savory, and nourishing. It’s also incredibly quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on ingredients. Made from pantry staples, it’s budget-friendly and highly adaptable. Kids love it, adults crave it, and everyone appreciates its simplicity. Whether you’re craving a taste of home or looking to try something new, this recipe hits all the right notes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz fideo pasta (or vermicelli, angel hair pasta)
2 small tomatoes (or ½ cup of canned tomato sauce)
½ medium onion
1 small garlic clove
4 ¼ cups chicken stock (or water + 3 tsp of chicken bouillon)
3 Tbsp canola oil
salt

directions

1. Cut the tomatoes in half and place them in a blender along with the onion and garlic.

2. Add 1 cup of chicken stock to the blender and puree the mixture until smooth.

3. Heat the canola oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

4. Add the fideo pasta and stir to coat in the oil. Cook, stirring constantly, until the pasta is golden brown.

5. Pour in the tomato sauce and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds while mixing.

6. Add the remaining chicken stock and season with salt. Bring to a boil.

7. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked.

8. Adjust salt to taste and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth and add diced vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and texture.

• Healthier Option: Skip frying the noodles—toast them dry over low heat or simply add them directly to the broth.

• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped chipotle pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the tomato blend.

• Smoky Flavor: Roast the tomatoes, onion, and garlic before blending for a deeper, smoky taste.

• Garnish Options: Top with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, chopped green chilies, or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sopa de fideo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Freezing is not recommended as the noodles may become too soft and mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, vermicelli or broken angel hair pasta work well if you can’t find traditional fideo.

What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?

Canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes are perfect substitutes—about ½ cup works well.

Is it necessary to toast the pasta?

Toasting adds a nutty depth of flavor and helps the pasta hold its texture, but you can skip it for a softer result.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, but the noodles may absorb more broth over time. Add extra broth when reheating to restore the consistency.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Absolutely. Shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even a fried egg make great additions.

How do I make the soup less salty?

Use low-sodium broth or water with reduced-sodium bouillon and adjust salt to taste.

Can I blend the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato blend ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

What does fideo mean?

“Fideo” means noodle in Spanish. In Mexico, it refers to a specific short-cut vermicelli pasta used in soups.

How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook them, and serve the soup immediately after simmering.

What sides go well with sopa de fideo?

Warm tortillas, avocado slices, or a simple side salad complement the soup beautifully.

Conclusion

Mexican Sopa de Fideo is more than just a simple noodle soup—it’s a comforting, nostalgic dish full of flavor and heart. With its quick preparation, budget-friendly ingredients, and adaptability, it’s easy to see why it’s a staple in so many homes. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or revisiting a childhood favorite, this soup is sure to warm your soul.