As the weather turns brisk and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. Recently, I found myself reminiscing about one of my all-time favorite sandwiches—the classic Reuben. But instead of the usual bread and fillings, I had a lightbulb moment that transformed this beloved deli dish into a velvety Creamy Reuben Soup. Imagine savory bits of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and luscious Swiss cheese swirling together in a rich broth.
This creamy concoction is perfect for chilly days and makes for a hearty meal that warms both body and soul. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest weeknights! I love how it marries nostalgia with modern convenience, serving as a delightful twist on the traditional Reuben. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with some crunchy rye bread croutons, this soup is sure to become a cozy staple in your kitchen. Let me guide you through creating this delicious dish, complete with variations for lighter options and ingredient swaps.
Why is Creamy Reuben Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and Cozy: This deliciously creamy soup captures the essence of the classic Reuben sandwich, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The marriage of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion that delights your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can have this heartwarming soup ready in no time, ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Enjoy a variety of twists by swapping ingredients like pastrami or exploring vegetarian adaptations, making it flexible for any dietary preference.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this soup will have everyone coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe!
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable.
• Medium Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic Cloves – Introduces aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended; avoid garlic powder.
• All-Purpose Flour – Used for thickening the soup; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base, adding depth; opt for low-sodium broth to control sodium levels.
For the Creamy Texture
• Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety texture; swap with half-and-half or low-fat milk alternatives for a lighter soup.
• Corned Beef – Main protein source providing rich flavor; can substitute with cooked turkey for a lighter option.
• Sauerkraut – Adds tanginess and probiotics; homemade sauerkraut is preferred for lower sodium content.
• Shredded Swiss Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; Gruyère can be used as a substitute for a similar profile.
For Flavor Enhancement
• Russian or Thousand Island Dressing – Enhances flavor profile with acidity; use homemade dressing for better quality.
• Salt and Pepper – For seasoning to taste; adjust according to your preference.
For Garnishing
• Rye Bread Croutons – Provides a crunchy garnish that mimics classic Reuben sandwiches; optional for gluten-free versions.
• Chopped Parsley – Adds a hint of freshness and color to your dish.
This Creamy Reuben Soup amalgamates all these delightful ingredients for a comforting experience that will warm your heart!
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
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Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the medium onion and garlic cloves, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This base adds sweetness and aromatic depth to your soup.
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Create Roux: Add all-purpose flour to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes while whisking, ensuring it doesn’t brown. This roux will thicken your soup beautifully without a raw flour taste.
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Whisk Broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps, which should take just a minute or so.
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Incorporate Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream, blending well to achieve that luscious creamy texture. Be sure to keep the heat low to avoid boiling the cream.
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Add Core Ingredients: Mix in the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, stirring thoroughly to coat everything well. This combination is where the magic of flavor truly happens.
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Melt the Cheese: Add shredded Swiss cheese and Russian dressing to the pot, stirring until completely melted and smooth. This melding is what creates the signature creamy consistency of your soup.
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Season: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld all those delicious flavors together beautifully.
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Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with rye bread croutons and chopped parsley for a splash of color and texture. Enjoy the comforting warmth!
Optional: For an extra flavor kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper while seasoning.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
A delightful bowl of soup deserves equally warm companions to create a cozy, satisfying meal.
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Crunchy Rye Bread: Its hearty texture and slight richness make it a perfect counterpart, ideal for dunking in your creamy soup.
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Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Pickles: Tangy dill or bread-and-butter pickles provide a zesty contrast that enhances the savory flavors of the soup.
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Potato Chips: The salty crunch works wonderfully alongside the smoothness of the creamy soup, offering a fun, nostalgic twist.
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French Fries: Crispy and hot, fries are a comforting, indulgent option that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the soup.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery with melted cheese, this option will elevate your dining experience with extra gooey goodness.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm and sweet apple treat balances the savory soup, offering a homey finish to your meal.
Consider these pairings to create a full dining experience that warms your soul and satisfies your cravings!
Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup
Roux Perfection: Ensure your roux is fully cooked without browning to avoid a raw flour taste that can spoil your creamy broth.
Corned Beef Quality: Use quality corned beef from a deli for the best flavor; this makes a significant difference in your soup’s richness.
Creamy Consistency: Once you add cream and cheese, avoid overcooking to maintain that luscious creamy texture that defines your Creamy Reuben Soup.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.
Dietary Flexibility: Remember to consider dietary needs by swapping in lower-fat substitutes and using homemade proteins for lower sodium levels.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to get creative! Substitute corned beef with pastrami or go vegetarian for a unique twist on this comforting classic.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Reuben Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can make the base of the soup (butter, onion, garlic, roux, and broth) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can prep the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut to add right before serving. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, gently reheat the prepared base, then stir in the heavy cream, shredded Swiss cheese, and the finished ingredients for just as delicious results. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in minutes with minimal effort!
Creamy Reuben Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful soup with these fun swaps and enhancements!
- Smoky Pastrami: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a flavorful, smoky twist that complements the soup’s creamy base perfectly.
- Creamy Light option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, retaining that rich creaminess but with less fat.
- Extra Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring some heat to your bowl, elevating the flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap corned beef for a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth, giving the soup a fresh, vibrant feel.
- Rye Flavor Boost: Incorporate caraway seeds into the soup for an extra hint of the traditional rye flavor found in classic Reuben sandwiches.
- Different Cheeses: Try Gruyère cheese in place of Swiss for a nuttier flavor, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex taste profile.
- Lighter Broth: For a low-sodium option, use homemade chicken broth or swap in vegetable broth to control the salt content while maintaining flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: Add crushed potato chips or crispy fried onions on top instead of croutons for a fun texture twist that adds a bit of crunch.
With these variations, you can create a unique bowl of Creamy Reuben Soup tailored just for you!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup
Fridge: Store your Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled before sealing to retain the soup’s creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Remember that freezing may alter the texture slightly, so let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. If the soup appears thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Serving Tip: For best results, serve the soup immediately after reheating to enjoy its warm, comforting flavor at its peak!
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of corned beef should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Creamy Reuben Soup, I highly recommend using high-quality corned beef from your local deli. The fresh, tender meat adds rich flavor and enhances the overall depth of the soup. If you prefer a lighter option, cooked turkey can be substituted without sacrificing too much in taste.
How can I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
You can store your Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing to help maintain its creamy texture. If you notice it thickening, feel free to stir in a bit of chicken broth or cream when you reheat!
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Reuben Soup for up to 2 months. To do this, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as it will expand. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Very! If you find that your Creamy Reuben Soup is too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously while combining, and allow it to simmer until warmed through. This will also help to restore that beloved creamy texture.
Are there any dietary substitutions I should consider for Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! To make Creamy Reuben Soup more accommodating, consider using gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour for thickening. You can also substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat milk alternative for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, replace the corned beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What visual cues indicate my ingredients are fresh?
When selecting your ingredients, keep an eye out for freshness! Fresh garlic should be firm and plump, while onions should be dry and firm without any soft spots. For sauerkraut, look for a crisp texture without any dark spots. For the corned beef, opt for vibrant slices with a good balance of lean meat and marbling, ensuring a tender bite in your soup.
Comforting Creamy Reuben Soup to Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add all-purpose flour to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes while whisking.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, blending well.
- Mix in the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut.
- Add shredded Swiss cheese and Russian dressing to the pot, stirring until completely melted.
- Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with rye bread croutons and chopped parsley.