Fideo is a classic Mexican noodle soup made with toasted vermicelli simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and full of cozy flavor—ready in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples. Perfect for chilly nights, quick lunches, or light family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Fideo Soup
This soup is fast, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Kids love the soft noodles, adults love the flavor, and you can add veggies, beans, or chicken to make it your own. Fideo is comfort in a bowl—simple, hearty, and always satisfying.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 7 oz (200 g) fideo pasta or vermicelli
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro + lime wedges for garnish
How to Make Mexican Fideo Soup
- Heat oil in a pot, add pasta, and toast until golden.
- Stir in onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce, broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 12–15 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Garnish with cilantro and lime before serving.
You Must Know
Toasting the noodles is the key step—it gives Fideo its signature nutty flavor. Skip this, and the soup will taste flat. Also, stir often while toasting so the pasta doesn’t burn. Use good-quality broth for a richer taste, and adjust seasonings to your preference.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Keep the heat medium when toasting noodles, then simmer gently so they don’t overcook. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth. For extra depth, blend fresh tomatoes with onion and garlic instead of canned sauce. Small tweaks make this simple soup taste incredible.
Add Your Touch Mexican Fideo Soup
Fideo is easy to customize. Add shredded chicken, beans, or veggies like zucchini and corn for a heartier meal. For a smoky kick, stir in chipotle peppers. Prefer it lighter? Keep it simple with just noodles and broth. A squeeze of lime and fresh cilantro always brightens the bowl.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb broth, so add a little extra when reheating. Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. For freezing, keep the broth separate from the pasta for best results.
Chef’s Helpful Tips FOR Mexican Fideo Soup
- Always toast the noodles until golden brown for the best flavor.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add broth gradually if the soup gets too thick.
- Serve with warm tortillas for a more filling meal.
- Garnish with avocado slices or queso fresco for extra richness.
FAQ FOR Mexican Fideo Soup
Can I use spaghetti instead of fideo? Yes—break spaghetti into small pieces.
Is it spicy? Not unless you add chili powder or peppers.
Can I make it ahead? Yes, but store pasta separately to avoid sogginess.
What sides go well with it? Tortillas, quesadillas, or a simple salad.
Conclusion
Fideo is more than just a quick noodle soup—it’s Mexican comfort food made simple. With toasted pasta, a rich tomato broth, and endless ways to customize, it’s the perfect recipe for busy nights or cozy weekends. Affordable, kid-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish proves that the best meals are often the simplest. One bowl, and you’ll see why Fideo has been a family favorite for generations.
The Best Fideo Recipe – Quick, Cozy, and Full of Flavor
Description
A quick and cozy Mexican noodle soup with toasted pasta and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
Heat oil in a pot, add pasta, and toast until golden.
Stir in onion and garlic; cook 2 minutes.
Add tomato sauce, broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 12–15 minutes, until noodles are tender.
Garnish with cilantro and lime. Serve hot.
Notes
- Swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Add shredded chicken, beans, or veggies to make it heartier.
If soup thickens, add a splash of broth before serving.