After a long week, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of comfort. Last weekend, as raindrops trickled down the window, I had a sudden craving for something rich and hearty. That’s when I recalled a delightful discovery I made while experimenting with leftovers—Creamy Reuben Soup. The first taste whisked me back to cozy deli visits, where the flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese danced in perfect harmony.
This recipe is my ultimate remedy for those dreary days or moments when fast food just won’t cut it. It’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, coming together easily with some simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Plus, the aromatic blend of sautéed vegetables and spices will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug. Gather your loved ones, serve it with some crunchy rye bread croutons, and watch as they come back for seconds. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Let’s dive into making this delicious Creamy Reuben Soup.
Why is Creamy Reuben Soup a must-try?
Comforting and Hearty: This soup wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for those chilly nights.
Rich, Delectable Flavors: The combination of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese creates a taste that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 60 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for serving family or friends, this dish never fails to impress.
Versatile: Pair it with crusty rye bread croutons, or enjoy it solo—it’s delicious any way you serve it!
Dive into the comforting world of homemade soup with this Creamy Reuben Soup recipe!
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
• Everything you need to create this delightful soup at home!
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – ensures a rich flavor base.
- 1 cup diced onion – for sweetness and depth.
- 1 cup diced celery – adds crunch and aromatic notes.
- 1 cup diced carrot – for a subtle sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – enhances flavor and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds – classic flavor for Reuben dishes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds herbal undertones.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – choose broth for a deeper taste.
- 2 cups chopped corned beef – the star ingredient!
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed – brings tanginess to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper – season to your liking.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish – adds a pop of color.
- Rye bread, cut into cubes for croutons (optional) – enhances texture and flavor.
Enjoy making your Creamy Reuben Soup with these simple ingredients!
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant, setting the stage for your soup’s base.
Sauté Vegetables: Add 1 cup each of diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté them until softened, about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Aromatics: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Pour in Broth: Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Watch as the soup begins to come together!
Simmer with Corned Beef: Reduce the heat, then add 2 cups of chopped corned beef and 1 cup of drained and rinsed sauerkraut. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Creamify the Soup: Gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. It should be creamy and luscious!
Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, giving it that perfect finishing touch.
Serve and Garnish: Serve your soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and optional croutons for extra crunch. Enjoy each comforting spoonful!
Optional: Top with extra shredded Swiss cheese before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water while reheating to restore its creamy consistency, as cream can separate when stored.
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
What could be better than a comforting bowl of rich, savory soup paired with delightful accompaniments?
Crusty Rye Bread: Perfect for dipping, this hearty bread complements the flavors of the soup while adding extra texture and a satisfying crunch.
Tangy Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds a burst of acidity that cuts through the creaminess, creating a balanced, refreshing bite.
Garlic Parmesan Croutons: Crispy and savory, these croutons add crunch and flavor to each spoonful of your Creamy Reuben Soup. They are simply irresistible!
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette refreshes the palate and brings a bright note to the meal, ensuring every bite is enjoyable.
Beer or Cider: A cold pint of lager or a crisp apple cider enhances the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect pairing for your soup.
Chocolate Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note! A rich chocolate mousse or brownie contrasts wonderfully with the soup’s creaminess, satisfying your sweet tooth.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Reuben Soup is a perfect solution for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables—onion, celery, and carrot—up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the entire soup mixture (excluding the cream and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring in the cream and cheese until melted and heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy creamy, comforting results with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Creamy Reuben Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists to make this soup your own!
- Vegetarian: Substitute corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty, plant-based option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce to heat things up. It adds an exciting layer of flavor!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for croutons and make sure to use gluten-free broth. Everyone can enjoy it!
- Herb-Infused: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh dill or chives at the end, offering a refreshing herbal note that elevates the soup.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra creamy touch, blend in a few ounces of cream cheese before serving—pure decadence!
- Beer-Braised: Incorporate a splash of your favorite lager or stout to the broth for deep, rich flavors reminiscent of a classic Reuben sandwich.
- Nutritional Boost: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for added nutrients without sacrificing taste.
Each variation can transform your Creamy Reuben Soup into a new favorite, so don’t be afraid to have fun in the kitchen!
Tips for the Best Creamy Reuben Soup
Perfect Veggies: Make sure to dice the onion, celery, and carrot evenly for an even cook and balanced flavor throughout your Creamy Reuben Soup.
Sauté Wisely: Don’t rush the sautéing process; it helps develop deeper flavors in the soup. Aim for golden-softened veggies before adding broth.
Unrushed Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for the full 20 minutes after adding the corned beef and sauerkraut. This melds the flavors beautifully and enhances the richness.
Cheese Control: Gradually stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese to avoid clumps. Stirring constantly ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Always taste your soup before serving to adjust salt and pepper for the best flavor.
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best corned beef for my Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! Look for corned beef that appears moist with a deep reddish color. Avoid pieces with dark spots or a dry appearance, as these could indicate older or lower quality meat. I often choose deli-sliced corned beef for convenience and flavor.
How should I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture. If needed, place a piece of parchment paper over the surface of the soup before sealing to retain moisture and prevent a skin from forming.
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer the container to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Creamy Reuben Soup?
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. To restore the creamy consistency, add a splash of broth or water while heating, as cream can separate during freezing. Stir frequently until warmed through.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Very! To adapt the recipe for a vegetarian or vegan diet, substitute the corned beef with cooked mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a creamy base, opt for coconut cream, almond milk, or cashew cream in place of heavy cream.
Are there any allergy considerations for Creamy Reuben Soup?
Certainly! This recipe contains dairy (butter, cream, and cheese) and possibly gluten (from rye bread croutons). If you’re making it for someone with allergies, you can use lactose-free cream and gluten-free bread or croutons, which work well for a safe and delicious meal.
Savor the Comfort: Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant, setting the stage for your soup's base.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add 1 cup each of diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté them until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in Broth: Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer with Corned Beef: Reduce the heat, then add 2 cups of chopped corned beef and 1 cup of drained and rinsed sauerkraut. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Creamify the Soup: Gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted.
- Season to Taste: Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, giving it that perfect finishing touch.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve your soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and optional croutons.