There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it brings the rich flavors of a beloved classic right to your table. Picture this: the irresistible essence of tender corned beef dancing with tangy sauerkraut and the creamy goodness of Swiss cheese, all blended into a luscious, velvety soup. That’s exactly what you can expect with my Creamy Reuben Soup, a delightful twist on the iconic Reuben sandwich that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a hearty meal.
I developed this recipe after a long day when nothing felt as comforting as a bowl of something warm and yummy. It’s an effortless creation that takes little time to whip up. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself, this Creamy Reuben Soup is sure to evoke nostalgia while satisfying your cravings. With its potential for lighter variations, it’s also versatile enough to fit any dietary preferences. Let’s dive in and bring this comforting creation to your kitchen!
Why is Creamy Reuben Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of creamy soup to wrap you in warmth on a chilly day.
Rich Flavor: Each bite bursts with the savory notes of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese, making it a standout dish.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up quickly, perfect for any busy weeknight.
Versatile Options: Customize it with lighter ingredients or alternative proteins for a version that suits any dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress friends and family alike with this unique twist on a classic, sure to spark nostalgia and satisfaction in every bowl.
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
For the Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable; adjust salt content accordingly.
- Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness and depth. Yellow or sweet onions work best for this recipe.
- Garlic – Enhances the dish with fragrant notes. Freshly minced garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Used to thicken the soup and create a roux. Can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Chicken Broth – Base for the soup, contributing savory depth. Low-sodium broth can help control sodium levels.
For the Creamy Mixture
- Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and richness; essential for the soup’s texture. For lighter options, substitute with half-and-half or low-fat milk.
- Corned Beef – Key protein element, offering a hearty, meaty flavor. Leftover corned beef or deli-sourced is ideal; substitute with cooked turkey or pastrami for variations.
- Sauerkraut – Provides tanginess; key to the Reuben flavor profile. Ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess liquid.
- Swiss Cheese – Offers creamy texture and melty goodness. Can swap with provolone or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.
- Russian or Thousand Island Dressing – Adds sweetness and acidity to balance the soup. Use homemade or store-bought; adjust to taste.
For Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; tailored to personal preference.
- Rye Bread Croutons – Garnish for crunchy texture. Create from leftover rye bread, toasted for added crunch.
- Chopped Parsley – Fresh garnish adding a pop of color and flavor. Optional but recommended for a vibrant finish.
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
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Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Create Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to create a roux that’s smooth and bubbly.
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Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, enjoying the savory aroma.
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Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream gradually, stirring until everything is smoothly combined and creamy.
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Mix In Proteins: Add the chopped corned beef and well-drained sauerkraut to the pot, mixing them into the creamy base for an inviting flavor experience.
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Melt Cheese: Incorporate the Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is beautifully creamy.
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Season & Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting all those delicious flavors meld together.
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Serve Warm: Serve your creamy delight warm, garnished with crunchy rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that extra touch.
Optional: For a zesty twist, consider adding a splash of hot sauce before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
For a cozy, heartwarming dinner, complement this rich, velvety soup with delightful sides that enhance its comforting flavor.
- Crunchy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zingy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing the creaminess.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a drizzle of lemon makes for a light and elegant side that complements the soup’s rich flavors beautifully.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges offer a delightful crunch and a hearty filling, making every bite satisfying alongside the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks with a hint of garlic are perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness of the soup, adding a touch of comfort.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad with a light dressing offsets the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the Reuben; its crisp acidity enhances the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Creamy Reuben Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and even prepare the roux (but keep it stored separately) up to 24 hours in advance. The soup itself can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring in the Swiss cheese and Russian dressing until melted and creamy. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, warm meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup
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Perfect Roux Consistency: Ensure your roux is cooked until smooth and bubbly, preventing any raw flour taste from sneaking into your Creamy Reuben Soup.
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Add Flavor Depth: For an extra layer of flavor that mimics rye bread, consider adding a pinch of caraway seeds during cooking.
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Sauerkraut Preparation: Drain the sauerkraut well before adding; excess liquid can dilute the soup’s creamy texture and flavor.
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Dairy Caution: Avoid overcooking after adding heavy cream; high heat can cause the creamy texture to break down.
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Creative Variations: Feel free to swap corned beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version, while still enjoying the essence of this beloved dish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy character.
Avoid Freezing: To maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s advisable not to freeze the soup if it contains heavy cream. Instead, consider freezing the base without dairy, adding cream when reheating.
Creamy Reuben Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish and make it your own with these delightful swaps and additions!
- Light Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk for a lighter, but still creamy, soup.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to suit dietary needs without sacrificing the thick texture.
- Turkey Twist: Replace corned beef with lean turkey or roasted chicken for a lighter yet equally satisfying option.
- Cheese Choice: Use cheddar or provolone instead of Swiss for a flavor twist that caters to your preference. Each cheese brings its own delicious character!
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat that wakes up the flavors.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition, creating a heartier dish.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh dill or thyme to elevate the soup with fragrant herbal notes that complement the main flavors.
- Vegan Version: Opt for dairy-free cheese and coconut cream or cashew milk to create a completely vegan adaptation while keeping it rich and comforting.
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for Creamy Reuben Soup?
You can use unsalted butter to control the salt content, but if you only have salted butter on hand, that’s perfectly fine! Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly to achieve the perfect balance.
How should I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze only the soup base without heavy cream. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and add cream while reheating to restore its signature creaminess.
What should I do if my soup turned out too thick?
If your soup is too thick when reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream a little at a time, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. It’s all about creating that perfect velvety texture!
Is there a gluten-free option for Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create your roux. This will ensure you still get that thick, creamy texture without any gluten. Just be sure to check that the broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re considering dietary restrictions, the Creamy Reuben Soup can easily be modified. You can use low-fat milk or half-and-half in place of heavy cream for a lighter version. Also, for a dairy-free option, swap out the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and ensure that your dressing is vegan-friendly!
Creamy Reuben Soup: Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and gradually add heavy cream, stirring until combined.
- Add chopped corned beef and well-drained sauerkraut, mixing them into the creamy base.
- Incorporate Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with rye bread croutons and chopped parsley.