When the temperature drops and a cozy vibe fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Creamy Reuben Soup to warm your soul. Inspired by the beloved Reuben sandwich, this rich and comforting dish brings together tender corned beef, zesty sauerkraut, and gooey melted Swiss cheese—all nestled in a luscious, creamy broth. The first time I ladled this soup into a bowl, I could practically hear the whispers of autumn leaves and the scent of home cooking wafting through my kitchen.
Whether you’re seeking a satisfying weeknight meal or a new twist for your next gathering, this soup is a delightful solution that requires minimal effort yet rewards you with extraordinary flavor. Customizable and hearty, you can switch out the meats or dairy to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish that everyone will adore. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Reuben Soup, traditional fast food will fade into the background, replaced by the mouthwatering magic of home-cooked goodness.
Why is Reuben Soup so irresistible?
Comforting warmth: This soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: It’s super simple to prepare, requiring just one pot and minimal effort.
Savory satisfaction: With tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy cheese, every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
Customizable delight: Swap meats or dairy to create your perfect version—everyone can enjoy it!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will gravitate towards this comforting meal, making it a hit at dinner time.
For more meal inspiration, don’t forget to check out our easy weeknight dinners.
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; using unsalted helps control the soup’s salt content.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or sweet onions work best.
- Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh minced garlic is preferred for its robust taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a roux for thickening; gluten-free options can be used if desired.
- Chicken Broth – Serves as the flavor base; low-sodium varieties help manage salt levels.
- Heavy Cream – Contributes creaminess and richness; half-and-half can be used for a lighter alternative.
For the Main Ingredients
- Corned Beef – The star protein, adding a savory, satisfying flavor; substitute with turkey or pastrami for a variation.
- Sauerkraut – Provides tanginess and probiotics; rinse it to reduce excess sodium if using store-bought.
- Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup for a creamy texture; Gruyère can be swapped for a sharper taste.
- Russian or Thousand Island Dressing – Adds a creamy and sweet-tangy touch; try homemade for extra flavor.
Seasoning and Garnishing
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
- Rye Bread Croutons – Perfect for garnish, adding a delightful crunch; consider making them from scratch for freshness.
- Chopped Parsley – Offers a fresh aesthetic touch; you can substitute chives or green onions for variation.
Dive into your culinary adventure with this Reuben Soup and watch your family fall in love with homemade goodness!
How to Make Reuben Soup
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Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes. This foundation builds a rich flavor!
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Stir in all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously to eliminate any raw flour taste, creating a thickening agent for your soup.
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Whisk in chicken broth gradually, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the broth to meld beautifully with the roux.
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Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well combined. You’ll see the mixture transform into a creamy dream!
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Add chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, mixing thoroughly. This combination infuses traditional flavors, making each bite a delight!
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Incorporate shredded Swiss cheese and your choice of dressing into the pot. Stir until melted and creamy, enriching the soup’s texture with cheesy goodness.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, letting the soup simmer for 10 more minutes to develop depth. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen!
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Serve hot, garnished with crispy rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and freshness. Enjoy the comfort in every bowl!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of caraway seeds for that authentic Reuben flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Reuben Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the onions and garlic, and even mix the flour into a roux, up to 24 hours in advance. Store these components in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the corned beef and sauerkraut mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply melt the butter, sauté the prepped ingredients, and add the broth, cream, cheese, and dressing. This approach ensures your soup remains just as delicious with minimal effort on the day of serving!
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
To create a delightful meal around this cozy bowl of goodness, consider these delicious pairings that welcome warmth and comfort.
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Crunchy Rye Bread: Perfect for dipping, rye bread’s robust flavor complements the soup’s creamy texture, making every bite satisfying.
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Tangy Potato Salad: A cool potato salad with a hint of acidity balances the rich flavors of the soup and adds a refreshing contrast.
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Crisp Side Salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette; the freshness will brighten the palette and enhance the soup’s indulgence.
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Savory Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers with beef or quinoa bring a hearty feel, making your meal more filling while echoing the Reuben’s savory elements.
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Homemade Croutons: Elevate your soup by crumbling homemade croutons on top; their crunchiness adds texture and a delightful flavor burst.
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Light Beer or Riesling: Pair your comforting bowl with a light lager or a chilled Riesling; both drinks enhance the meal’s hearty flavors and provide a pleasant contrast.
A perfect way to embrace the season, each pairing brings its essence to the table and makes the meal unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Reuben Soup
- Perfect Roux: Ensure your roux is well-cooked for 2 minutes. This prevents any raw flour taste, which could spoil your creamy Reuben soup.
- Quality Corned Beef: Use high-quality corned beef for the best flavor. Homemade is wonderful if you want to manage salt levels effectively.
- Sauerkraut Prep: Always rinse your sauerkraut to cut down on sodium. It’s a delicious addition without overpowering the other flavors.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère for a sharper taste or add spices like cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Dairy Care: Be mindful not to overheat the soup after adding the cream and cheese, as it may lead to an unappealing separation.
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Soup
- Fridge: Store leftover Reuben soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.
- Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Note that the texture may change upon thawing.
- Thawing: Always thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Stir well to re-emulsify after reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid boiling to prevent separation of the cream and cheese.
Reuben Soup Variations & Substitutions
Customize this delicious Reuben Soup to match your taste and dietary needs, making it uniquely yours!
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Turkey Swap: Replace corned beef with cooked turkey for a lighter, leaner option that’s equally satisfying.
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Chicken Delight: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of corned beef for a tender and comforting protein choice that many love.
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Pastrami Twist: Swap corned beef for pastrami to infuse a spicier, smoky flavor into the soup, ideal for adventurous eaters.
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Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on the creaminess.
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Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup without compromising on flavor and richness.
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Cheese Variation: Try using Gruyère or smoked gouda instead of Swiss cheese for a different taste profile that boosts flavor complexity.
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Crouton Crunch: For added texture, toss some crispy bacon bits on top instead of croutons—deliciously indulgent!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat in their soup!
Embrace these variations and make this Reuben Soup your own, delighting everyone at the table with your creative twists!
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right corned beef for my Reuben soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality corned beef. Look for brisket that has a rich color and is well-marinated. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged deli corned beef is a good alternative, but homemade is often the tastiest option as you can control the salt levels.
How long can I store my Creamy Reuben Soup in the refrigerator?
You can store your Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze my Reuben soup, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Reuben soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently on the stove while stirring to re-emulsify.
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What should I do if my soup is too thick after I reheat it?
Very! If your soup turns out too thick after reheating, you can add a bit of chicken broth or milk, stirring it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the creamy texture without compromising the flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this Creamy Reuben Soup?
You can certainly make a vegetarian version! For a meat-free twist, replace the corned beef with shredded jackfruit or cooked lentils. Additionally, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and a non-dairy cream for extra richness if desired.
Can I adjust the level of tanginess in the soup?
Absolutely! If you like a bit more tang, you can add extra sauerkraut or use a splash of vinegar to enhance the flavor. I often suggest tasting as you go to find the perfect balance that suits your palate!
Creamy Reuben Soup: A Hearty Twist on Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Whisk in chicken broth gradually, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well combined.
- Add chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, mixing thoroughly.
- Incorporate shredded Swiss cheese and your choice of dressing into the pot. Stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, letting the soup simmer for 10 more minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy rye bread croutons and chopped parsley.