Creamy Reuben Soup

Creamy Reuben Soup combines the beloved flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich into a comforting, hearty bowl of soup. With a rich and creamy broth, tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, and melty Swiss cheese, this soup brings all the classic ingredients together in a new and delicious way. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something both comforting and flavorful, this soup is a great option for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer at your next gathering.

The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory elements in this soup will remind you of the familiar sandwich, but with the added warmth and richness of a comforting bowl of soup. With rye bread pieces for a crunchy, satisfying texture and all the signature flavors of a Reuben sandwich, this dish offers a cozy take on a beloved classic. Simple to make, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire for cold weather comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

This soup has all the heartiness of a Reuben sandwich but in the form of a creamy, satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.

2. Rich, Tangy, and Savory Flavor

The combination of sauerkraut, corned beef, Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard creates the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors.

3. Easy to Make

This soup is surprisingly simple to make with basic ingredients, taking less than an hour to prepare from start to finish.

4. Great for Leftovers

Creamy Reuben Soup reheats beautifully and can be stored for a few days, making it a perfect meal prep option.

5. A Unique Twist on a Classic Sandwich

If you’re a fan of the Reuben sandwich, you’ll love this soup version, which puts a creative twist on a classic comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
• 1 cup corned beef, chopped
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Rye bread, toasted and chopped (for topping)

Variations

Use Different Meat

While corned beef is traditional, you can substitute it with pastrami or smoked turkey for a different flavor profile.

Make It Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version, omit the corned beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or another plant-based meat alternative.

Add More Veggies

You can add extra vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to the soup base for added flavor and texture.

Make it Spicy

Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the soup an extra kick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Roux

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 2: Add Broth

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Add Sauerkraut and Corned Beef

Stir in the sauerkraut, corned beef, and Dijon mustard. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Half-and-Half and Swiss Cheese

Stir in the half-and-half and shredded Swiss cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Season

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.

Step 6: Serve with Toasted Rye Bread

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with toasted rye bread cubes for added crunch and flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Rush the Roux: Allow the flour and butter to cook for a minute or two to get rid of the raw flour taste and ensure a smooth texture.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth; for a lighter soup, you can use milk instead of half-and-half.
• Use Good Quality Corned Beef: The flavor of the corned beef is crucial in this soup, so choose a high-quality product or make your own corned beef for the best results.
• Toast the Bread Well: Toast the rye bread until it’s extra crispy, so it doesn’t become soggy when added to the soup.

How to Serve

Creamy Reuben Soup is best served piping hot with a generous sprinkle of toasted rye bread cubes on top. For added flavor, you can garnish the soup with a small drizzle of extra Dijon mustard or fresh parsley. This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of extra rye bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a bit of extra broth or water when reheating.

Freezing

While this soup can be frozen, the creamy texture may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Cook the soup on low for 4-6 hours, adding the cheese and half-and-half in the last 30 minutes.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can use Gruyère or even cheddar for a different flavor.

4. Can I freeze the soup?

The soup can be frozen, but the creamy texture may change once thawed. If you do freeze it, be sure to reheat gently.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add extra vegetables such as carrots, celery, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

6. What can I serve this soup with?

This soup is perfect with a side of toasted rye bread, a fresh salad, or even a side of pickles to complete the Reuben theme.

7. Can I make this soup without the corned beef?

Yes, you can omit the corned beef to make a vegetarian version of this soup. You can also substitute it with another protein, like smoked turkey.

8. How do I prevent the soup from curdling?

To avoid curdling, make sure the soup is simmering, not boiling, when you add the cream and cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted smoothly into the soup.

9. Can I add more mustard to the soup?

If you love the tanginess of Dijon mustard, feel free to add more to taste. It adds a delicious depth to the soup.

10. Can I use a different type of broth?

Chicken broth is ideal, but you can substitute with vegetable broth if you prefer a non-meat option.

Conclusion

Creamy Reuben Soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings together the beloved flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a rich and creamy soup. Perfect for any time of year, but especially for cozy fall and winter days, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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