If you’re craving something heartwarming that brings together all the classic flavors of an iconic sandwich, then you are in for a treat with this Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe. Imagine the tangy sauerkraut, tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and a hint of Dijon all swirled into a bowl of rich, velvety soup that comforts like a cozy hug on a chilly day. This recipe transforms those beloved Reuben tastes into a luscious, satisfying soup that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this soup promises an unforgettable, flavorful experience with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for this soup’s irresistible flavor and creamy texture. Each component plays a key role—from the richness of the butter to the zing of the sauerkraut—ensuring the final dish tastes authentic and indulgent without any fuss.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a silky base to sauté the aromatics and start the roux for creaminess.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and aroma that deepens the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses a subtle, savory kick that complements the corned beef.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup for that perfect creamy consistency.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid foundation that carries all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half: Gives the soup its luscious richness without overwhelming heaviness.
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained: Adds the signature tart crunch that’s essential to Reuben flavor.
- 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, chopped: Tender and flavorful, this delivers the heartiness of the classic sandwich.
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts smoothly to create a creamy, cheesy depth.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a sharp tang that brightens and balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional): Adds a warm, slightly nutty aroma for a gourmet touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance and round out all the flavors.
- Rye bread croutons (for topping): Provides a crunchy contrast and ties back to the traditional Reuben sandwich.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished bowl.
How to Make Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Allow them to cook gently until they are soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful foundation that lets the soup’s savory elements shine later.
Step 2: Make the Base
Next, stir in the all-purpose flour, cooking it for a full minute while stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is important for thickening the soup. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring you eliminate any lumps right away for a smooth, silky texture. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly—this perfect base will carry all the wonderful flavors to come.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Elements
Turn the heat down to low and gently stir in the half-and-half, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds if you’re using them. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes here, allowing these ingredients to mingle and deepen the rich, complex flavor that makes this recipe so special. The creamy half-and-half balances the tangy mustard and earthy caraway beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate the Reuben Essentials
Now it’s time for the magic! Add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, and shredded Swiss cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully and the soup turns irresistibly creamy. Finally, season with salt and pepper to perfection. This is when your soup truly transforms into a comforting bowl reminiscent of that beloved Reuben sandwich you adore.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and top with crunchy rye bread croutons, which add a delightful texture contrast. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top if you want a pop of green and a fresh finish. This last touch takes the presentation from homey to next-level inviting, perfect for impressing friends or simply savoring a cozy night in.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings turn this soup from comforting to captivating. Rye bread croutons provide a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a fresh, herbal note that cuts through the richness. If you want an extra kick, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of extra Dijon mustard on top can also bring delightful tang and creaminess.
Side Dishes
While this soup stands on its own, pairing it with simple sides can elevate your meal. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness perfectly. Alternatively, serve with extra slices of toasted rye bread or a classic dill pickle for that authentic deli experience recreated beautifully at home.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls made from rye or pumpernickel. This not only looks fantastic but offers edible containers that soak up every bit of that luscious soup. You can also set up a toppings bar with extra grated Swiss, sauerkraut, and caraway seeds so guests can customize their bowls just how they like them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the soup’s texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you’ll find that the flavors have only deepened, making for an even more satisfying meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that ingredients like sauerkraut and half-and-half might slightly alter texture upon thawing, but gentle reheating and stirring will bring it back to deliciousness.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the dairy from curdling and to keep the soup smooth and creamy. Adding a splash of extra half-and-half or broth while reheating can help refresh the soup’s consistency. Avoid the microwave if you want to best preserve the soup’s texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
While this Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe traditionally features corned beef, you can substitute with a plant-based deli meat or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just keep in mind that the classic Reuben flavor depends heavily on the corned beef’s unique taste.
What’s the best way to drain sauerkraut?
Place the sauerkraut in a fine mesh sieve or colander and press gently with the back of a spoon to remove excess liquid. Removing excess moisture ensures your soup stays creamy and thick rather than watery.
Can I use a different cheese?
Swiss cheese is classic for its nutty flavor and melting quality, but you could experiment with Gruyère or even provolone. Just choose a cheese that melts well and complements the tangy and savory elements in the soup.
Is caraway seed necessary?
Caraway seeds add an authentic touch of warm, slightly herbal flavor that echoes traditional Reuben spices. However, if you’re not a fan, you can leave them out without losing the essence of the dish.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy and slightly thickened but still ladle-able. If you find it too thick, stir in a bit more chicken broth or half-and-half until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the rich, tangy flavors of a Reuben sandwich in soup form feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate. This Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe brings together comforting textures and flavors with impressive simplicity, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try it soon and discover how effortlessly satisfying it is to enjoy the best of deli cuisine right from your kitchen. You’re just a few steps away from your new favorite soup!
Print
Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Combining tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese in a creamy broth, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or cozy lunch. Topped with crunchy rye bread croutons and fresh parsley, it captures all the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a warm, hearty bowl.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rye bread croutons (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Make the Base: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux that helps thicken the soup. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Add the Creamy Elements: Reduce the heat and stir in the half-and-half, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds if using. Let the soup simmer gently for a few minutes to marry the flavors.
- Incorporate the Reuben Essentials: Add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, and shredded Swiss cheese into the pot. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup has a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with crunchy rye bread croutons. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace corned beef with cooked mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative.
- To make this soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour and ensure the broth and croutons are gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove to prevent curdling.
- Feel free to add extra caraway seeds or a splash of rye whiskey for a deeper flavor profile.
- Rye bread croutons can be made by toasting rye bread cubes tossed in a little butter or oil until golden and crisp.
