Name: Creamy Reuben Soup: Cozy Comfort in Every Spoonful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness and flavor to the broth.); 1 cup Onion (Provides aromatic flavor; can substitute with shallots.); 2 cloves Garlic (Enhances aroma; fresh preferred, can use garlic powder.); 2 tablespoons Flour (Used to create a roux; use cornstarch for gluten-free.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Base for the soup; vegetable broth can be used.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Adds creaminess; substitute with half-and-half for lighter.); 1 cup Corned Beef (Main protein; can substitute with shredded chicken or tempeh.); 1 cup Sauerkraut (Provides tangy flavor; ensure drained.); 1 cup Swiss Cheese (Melts smoothly; can replace with mozzarella or Gruyère.); ¼ cup Russian Dressing (Adds distinctive flavor; substitute with Thousand Island.); Salt (Season to taste.); Black Pepper (Season to taste.)

As the rich aroma of simmering soup fills the kitchen, I’m transported to memories of cozy family dinners. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on a beloved classic—Creamy Reuben Soup. This dish captures the essence of the iconic Reuben sandwich, blending tender corned beef, zesty sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese into a velvety embrace. Not only is it a comforting option perfect for chilly evenings, but it’s also ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy nights. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for those looking for vegetarian substitutes! How do you prefer to indulge in a hearty bowl of soup? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why Is Creamy Reuben Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting: This soup wraps you in warmth, reminiscent of family dinners and cozy gatherings.
Quick to Prepare: With just under 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Adaptable: Easily modify it for a vegetarian twist by swapping corned beef for mushrooms or tempeh!
Rich Flavor: The combination of Swiss cheese, savory corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut creates an explosion of taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a favorite that everyone loves, whether served at a dinner party or just a casual meal. Pair it with a side of crunchy bread for a complete experience, and you’ll be dreaming of this soup long after the last bite!

Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients

For the Base
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the broth.
• Onion – Provides aromatic flavor; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall aroma; fresh garlic preferred, can use garlic powder in a pinch.
• Flour – Used to create a roux that thickens the soup; for a gluten-free version, use cornstarch.
• Chicken Broth – Base for the soup; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and richness; half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter option.

For the Filling
• Corned Beef – Main protein source; can substitute with shredded chicken or a vegetarian option like tempeh.
• Sauerkraut – Provides tangy flavor; ensure drained to avoid excess liquid.
• Swiss Cheese – Melts smoothly into the soup; can replace with mozzarella or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
• Russian Dressing – Adds distinctive flavor; substitute with Thousand Island dressing if needed.

For the Seasoning
• Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste, essential for balancing flavors.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant, laying the foundation of your Creamy Reuben Soup.

Step 2: Make Roux
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour to the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 2 minutes. This roux will thicken the soup, so ensure it develops a light golden color without burning, which will add depth to the overall flavor.

Step 3: Add Broth
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the roux. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles to form, which should take about 3-4 minutes, enriching your Creamy Reuben Soup base.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream until fully blended. The soup should take on a smooth and creamy texture as the cream lightens the broth, creating a luscious foundation for the robust flavors to come.

Step 5: Mix in Main Ingredients
Add 1 cup of chopped corned beef and 1 cup of drained sauerkraut to the pot, stirring them into the creamy mix until well combined. Allow the soup to heat through for about 5 minutes, bringing together all the savory elements of the Creamy Reuben Soup.

Step 6: Melt Cheese
Toss in 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese along with ¼ cup of Russian dressing. Cook gently for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted, creating a delightfully creamy and cheesy texture in your soup.

Step 7: Season and Simmer
Season the soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference. Let the Creamy Reuben Soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 8: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with crunchy rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm, inviting everyone to enjoy the comforting goodness of your Creamy Reuben Soup.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Reuben Soup components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sautéed onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the corned beef and sauerkraut together ahead of time—just be sure to drain the sauerkraut well to prevent excess liquid. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sautéed base, add the broth and cream, then stir in your prepared ingredients and heat until warm. This method ensures your soup stays just as delicious while making your evening routine a breeze!

Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup

Roux Mastery: Avoid burning the roux by stirring constantly until it reaches a light golden color. This ensures a rich flavor in your Creamy Reuben Soup.
Thickening Trick: If your soup turns out too thin, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it back to the pot to thicken.
Vegetarian Substitutes: Try using mushrooms or tempeh instead of corned beef, along with vegetable broth, to enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of the Creamy Reuben Soup.
Sautéing Aromatics: Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the depth of flavor for the soup, giving it that comforting taste everyone loves.
Chunky vs. Smooth: If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some corned beef and sauerkraut to add back in right before serving your Creamy Reuben Soup.

What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?

Creating a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth is quite easy with these perfect pairings!

Crunchy Rye Bread: This classic companion complements the flavors of the soup while adding a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Caesar Salad: A fresh salad drizzled with tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the Creamy Reuben Soup.
Potato Chips: Their salty crunch adds a fun texture, making them a delightful addition to your comforting bowl.
Pickles: Their briny crispness cuts through the creamy richness, enhancing the flavors in every spoonful of soup.
Apple Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note; the warm and spiced flavors of pie create a beautiful contrast after a hearty soup.
Fresh Lemonade: A refreshing drink to enjoy alongside, balancing the savory notes of the soup with its bright citrus flavor.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender, vibrant green beans add a pop of color and mild flavor, bringing freshness to the meal.
Coleslaw: This tangy side dish offers a crunchy bite and lightens the richness of your creamy soup, making every bite enjoyable.
Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches, oozing with melty goodness, make for an indulgent pairing, perfect for dipping!
Dark Chocolate: Finish with a little indulgence; the bittersweet taste of chocolate rounds out a comforting meal perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain its rich flavors.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to restore creaminess if it thickens during storage.

Tip: Avoid freezing soup with croutons, as they can become soggy; add them fresh when serving for that perfect crunch!

Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Reuben Soup

Feel free to tailor this Creamy Reuben Soup recipe to your tastes and dietary needs—let’s get creative together!

Vegetarian Version: Replace corned beef with tempeh or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. This alternative packs a delicious punch while keeping the comforting essence intact.
Cheese Variations: Try gouda or provolone for a different flavor twist; each cheese melts beautifully while adding its unique character. Your soup will transform into a new favorite!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the flour for cornstarch to create the roux, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful dish without worry.
Extra Vegetables: Add shredded carrots or diced celery for more texture and nutrition. These additions can enhance the flavor while making the soup even heartier.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat. The warmth will beautifully balance the creaminess of the soup.
Creamy Alternative: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version while still keeping that luxurious texture that makes soup so comforting.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh dill or thyme at the end for a fragrant touch that elevates the overall taste, giving your creamy delight an herbaceous lift.
Hearty Protein Boost: For a unique twist, swap corned beef with shredded chicken or leftover roast beef for a comforting, meaty goodness. You could also check out my Creamy Beef Pasta for another delightful variation!

Enjoy exploring these variations, and don’t hesitate to mix and match ideas whenever inspiration strikes!

Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I consider when selecting ingredients, especially the corned beef?
Absolutely! When choosing corned beef, look for cuts that are well marbled and not overly lean; this ensures tender, flavorful pieces. If you’re opting for a vegetarian version, tempeh or portobello mushrooms are excellent substitutes that provide a meaty texture.

How should I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
For optimal storage, place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing to lock in its rich flavors!

Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and seal them tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my soup is too thin after cooking?
Very! If you find the soup isn’t thick enough for your liking, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free for allergy considerations?
Certainly! For a dairy-free version of the Creamy Reuben Soup, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream. Use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether while ensuring the rest of your ingredients are gluten and dairy-free as well!

How do I reheat frozen Creamy Reuben Soup without losing flavor?
To reheat, gently warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it appears too thick, add a little extra broth to restore its creamy texture. Avoid boiling it to preserve the flavors!