Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love the rich flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, this Creamy Reuben Soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. This hearty dish takes all the familiar components of the Reuben—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye bread—and transforms them into a soul-warming bowl of comfort. The velvety broth, enhanced with a touch of cream, perfectly balances the tanginess of sauerkraut and the savory depth of corned beef. It is the perfect meal for chilly days when you crave something filling yet unique. This recipe also offers an excellent way to use up leftover corned beef, especially after festive occasions like St. Patrick’s Day. Served with crunchy rye croutons or alongside slices of toasted bread, it is a complete meal that brings both nostalgia and innovation to your table.
Print
Creamy Reuben Soup – A Comforting Twist on a Classic Sandwich
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty and creamy soup inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye bread for a comforting twist.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 slices rye bread, toasted and cubed
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add corned beef and sauerkraut. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, Swiss cheese, and caraway seeds. Cook until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with rye bread croutons before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, lightly butter and toast rye bread before cubing it.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Adjust sauerkraut quantity to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
The charm of Creamy Reuben Soup lies in its familiar yet exciting mix of ingredients, each playing a key role in recreating the flavors of the beloved sandwich.
Corned beef
The star of this dish, corned beef provides a salty, savory, and slightly briny flavor that sets the tone for the soup. Shredded or chopped corned beef infuses the broth with depth and makes every spoonful hearty.
Sauerkraut
This ingredient adds tang and brightness, cutting through the richness of the cream and cheese. It also gives the soup its distinctive Reuben character, making it instantly recognizable.
Swiss cheese
Melted Swiss cheese creates a luscious texture and nutty undertone. It ties all the flavors together, giving the soup its creamy and indulgent finish.
Onion
Sautéed onion brings a mild sweetness and savory aroma that forms the foundation of the flavor profile. It softens the acidity of sauerkraut and balances the dish.
Carrots
Adding carrots enhances both texture and flavor. Their natural sweetness provides contrast to the tang of sauerkraut and the saltiness of corned beef.
Celery
Celery contributes a subtle freshness and depth, lending complexity to the base without overpowering the main flavors.
Garlic
A touch of garlic introduces a warm, aromatic element that amplifies the overall savory richness.
Chicken or beef broth
This acts as the base liquid, carrying the flavors of the soup. Beef broth delivers a more robust flavor, while chicken broth makes it slightly lighter.
Heavy cream
Cream provides luxurious body and smoothness, creating the velvety texture that makes this soup irresistible.
Rye bread croutons
To stay true to the sandwich inspiration, rye bread croutons add crunch, nuttiness, and authenticity to the finished dish.
Directions
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding a touch of butter or oil. Sauté the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant, usually about five minutes. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the sauerkraut and cook for another two minutes to allow its tang to integrate with the aromatics.
Add the chopped or shredded corned beef to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Next, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, making sure it blends smoothly into the broth. Allow the soup to warm through but do not let it boil, as this may cause the cream to curdle.
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and the soup develops a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
For serving, ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy rye bread croutons. Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This Creamy Reuben Soup recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or small gatherings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while cooking requires an additional 30 minutes, bringing the total time to around 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Leftover Creamy Reuben Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream and cheese from separating. Avoid boiling once reheated. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy base may split once thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Lighter version
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk to reduce richness while keeping the soup creamy.
Vegetarian option
Omit the corned beef and substitute vegetable broth for a lighter, plant-based variation. Adding mushrooms can provide a meaty texture.
Spicy twist
Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who prefer a bit of heat in their soups.
Extra cheesy
Increase the amount of Swiss cheese or add Gruyère for a more indulgent, cheesy base.
Gluten-free version
Skip the rye croutons or use gluten-free bread alternatives for those avoiding gluten.
Thicker consistency
Add a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry before adding the cream to create a heartier, stew-like texture.
FAQs
Can I use deli corned beef instead of homemade?
Yes, deli corned beef works well if sliced or shredded into small pieces.
Does sauerkraut make the soup too sour?
No, the cream and cheese balance the tanginess, keeping it mild.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, add all ingredients except cream and cheese, cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in cream and cheese before serving.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone are good alternatives.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy base may separate upon thawing.
How do I make rye croutons?
Cube rye bread, toss with oil and seasoning, then bake until golden and crisp.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Conclusion
Creamy Reuben Soup captures the essence of a beloved deli sandwich in a comforting, spoonable form. Its combination of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy broth, and nutty Swiss cheese makes it both familiar and surprising. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or chilly evenings, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious. With its easy preparation and satisfying flavors, it is sure to become a recurring favorite at your table.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!