Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe

If you have a soft spot for all things Reuben and love the idea of that iconic sandwich transformed into a comforting, bowl-worthy meal, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Reuben Soup. Imagine the tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, nutty Swiss cheese, and a hint of zesty dressing coming together in a silky, rich broth that warms you from the inside out. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s like wrapping yourself in your favorite cozy blanket on a chilly day while indulging in bold, familiar flavors that sing together perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling together Creamy Reuben Soup is surprisingly simple, but every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this soup unforgettable. You’ll find that the magic lies in balancing the creamy base with hearty, tangy, and slightly smoky elements, all coming together beautifully.

• Unsalted butter: Provides a rich foundation and helps sauté the aromatics gently.
• Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened, creating a savory backbone.
• Garlic, minced: Gives that classic savory kick that brightens the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the soup’s creamy consistency.
• Chicken broth: Builds volume and adds a subtle savory base without overpowering.
• Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that makes each spoonful satisfying.
• Corned beef, chopped: The star protein with its tender, salty, and flavorful character.
• Sauerkraut, drained: Adds that signature tang and slight crunch, balancing richness.
• Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts into the soup, adding nuttiness and a silky texture.
• Russian or Thousand Island dressing: A splash of tangy, slightly sweet dressing to mimic the classic sandwich vibe.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors in harmony.
• Rye bread croutons: Adds crunch and a traditional touch for garnish.
• Chopped parsley: A fresh, green finish that brightens the presentation and taste.

How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This base sets the stage with sweet and savory notes that will infuse the soup with a comforting depth.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and develop a light golden color. This step is crucial because the flour’s toasty undertone helps thicken the soup and creates that inviting creamy texture.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure it’s smooth with no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so the soup begins to thicken. Then stir in the heavy cream, which enriches the broth, making it luxuriously smooth without overshadowing the other flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Stir in the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut, evenly distributing these hearty, tangy ingredients throughout the soup. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld, softening the sauerkraut just slightly while keeping its delightful bite.

Step 5: Melt in the Swiss Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and slowly fold in the shredded Swiss cheese. The cheese melts perfectly into the warm soup, adding a nutty richness and creamy silkiness that defines this Creamy Reuben Soup.

Step 6: Finish with Dressing and Seasoning

Finally, stir in the Russian or Thousand Island dressing. This special touch lifts the soup with a subtle tangy sweetness that mimics the classic sandwich flavor profile. Taste and season with salt and pepper until everything feels balanced and just right.

How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup

Garnishes

For that final pop of texture and freshness, top your bowl with crunchy rye bread croutons and sprinkle with chopped parsley. The croutons add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creamy base, while the parsley provides a vibrant lift that brightens every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This soup stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a simple cucumber salad to add refreshing contrast. If you want to keep the Reuben theme going, a side of pickles or a small plate of rye bread with butter adds that traditional diner feel everyone loves.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, serve the Creamy Reuben Soup in rustic bread bowls or individual mini cast-iron skillets. Drizzle a little extra dressing on top or sprinkle some extra Swiss cheese before serving warm. This presentation is sure to impress guests and make the experience feel indulgent and memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes just as good the next day, if not better.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing due to the cream and cheese. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the dairy from separating. If the soup thickens too much during reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up perfectly.

FAQs

Can I substitute the corned beef with another meat?

Absolutely! While corned beef is traditional for a Reuben, you can experiment with pastrami or even thinly sliced roast beef for a slightly different but still delicious twist.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Reuben Soup?

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the corned beef and using vegetable broth instead of chicken. Consider adding smoked tempeh or tofu for a smoky, meaty flavor without the meat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Swiss cheese is classic, but Gruyère or even a mild mozzarella can be swapped in if needed. Just keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

What’s the best way to get crispy rye croutons?

Cut rye bread into cubes, toss with a bit of olive oil and garlic powder, and bake at 350°F until golden and crunchy. This gives your soup the perfect contrast in texture.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting heavy cream with a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative and using a dairy-free cheese substitute, you can enjoy a creamy version that suits dairy-free diets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with bold flavor, this Creamy Reuben Soup is absolutely worth making. It’s like your favorite Reuben sandwich found its soulmate in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or anytime you want a luscious, savory delight. Dive in, savor every bite, and make sure this recipe becomes a loved staple in your kitchen!

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