As the cold winds begin to swirl and the first frost creeps across the grass, my thoughts inevitably drift to warm, comforting meals that wrap me in a cozy embrace. Nothing delivers that sense of warmth quite like a bowl of Creamy Reuben Soup. Inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, this delightfully indulgent dish melds the savory flavors of corned beef and tangy sauerkraut into a velvety soup that embodies the essence of comfort food.
Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, making it the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons when all you want is something hearty that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to embrace homemade goodness over fast food, I promise this soup will become a go-to favorite as soothing and satisfying as your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Get ready to ladle out bowls of pure bliss!
Why will you love Creamy Reuben Soup?
Warmth in Every Bite: This soup captures the essence of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings when you crave a cozy meal.
One-Pot Wonder: Simplifying your cooking process, it’s an easy-to-follow recipe that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
Rich, Velvety Texture: With creamy elements from cheese and heavy cream, each spoonful is indulgent and satisfying.
Hearty and Filling: The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and croutons makes it a meal in itself; perfect for hungry bellies.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with different meats or fresh herbs, ensuring it fits your personal taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Corned Beef – Provides protein and a savory flavor base; substitute with pastrami if preferred for a twist.
• Sauerkraut – Adds tanginess and texture, mimicking the classic Reuben sandwich; ensure it’s well-drained before use.
• Swiss Cheese – Contributes creaminess and flavor; a generous amount enhances the soup’s richness—Gruyere works as an excellent alternative.
• Chicken Stock – Serves as the soup base; use vegetable stock for a vegetarian alternative.
For Flavor Enhancements
• Onion – Provides aromatic base flavors; yellow or white onion is recommended for the best taste.
• Garlic – Offers depth and enhances the overall flavor profile; fresh minced garlic works wonders.
• Carrot – Enhances sweetness and adds subtle complexity; omit for a simpler soup.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the soup; full-fat coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free substitute.
• Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables and toasting croutons; olive oil is a healthier alternative.
For the Croutons
• Rye Bread – Perfect for making croutons that lend a quintessential Reuben taste; substitute with pumpernickel for added depth if desired.
Enjoy crafting your delicious Creamy Reuben Soup with these delightful ingredients!
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and minced garlic, sautéing until the mixture is soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Add Proteins: Stir in the chopped corned beef, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to warm through.
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Incorporate Liquids: Pour in the chicken stock and add the well-drained sauerkraut. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble away for about 10 minutes.
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Thicken: Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a little water, then stir this mixture into the soup. Continue to stir until the soup has thickened, approximately 2-3 minutes.
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Creamy Addition: Lower the heat and add heavy cream along with the Swiss cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy.
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Toast Croutons: While the soup simmers, butter the rye bread and dice it into cubes. Toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with the toasted croutons. Enjoy warm for the ultimate comfort meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh dill or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup
- Fridge: Store your Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days; allow it to cool before sealing to maintain flavor and texture.
- Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; pour it into freezer-friendly containers, leaving space for expansion, and consider adding croutons fresh upon reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore its lovely consistency.
- Thawing: Always thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure an even warm-up and keep it creamy and delicious!
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
Picture a cozy gathering with loved ones around the table, ready to delight in comforting flavors that complement each spoonful of your delicious soup.
- Crunchy Pickles: Their tanginess cuts through the richness of the soup, providing a delightful contrast that brightens each bite.
- Potato Chips: Offering a satisfying crunch, they add texture to your meal and are perfect for dipping. Pair with your favorite flavored chips for extra pizzazz!
- Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing blend of greens with a light vinaigrette can balance the soup’s heaviness, keeping the meal light and invigorating.
- Garlic Bread: Buttery, toasty, and infused with garlic goodness, this classic side works perfectly to scoop up that creamy broth.
- Apple Cider: The warmth and slight sweetness of apple cider beautifully harmonize with the savory flavors of the soup, making it a comforting drink choice.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these go-to cookies are a sweet finish that will leave everyone smiling and satisfied. Their gooeyness is a delightful contrast to the creamy soup!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Reuben Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onions and carrots), and shred the corned beef up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the croutons a day ahead and keep them crispy by storing them in an airtight bag. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped aromatics, incorporate the liquids, and follow the final steps to thicken and creamify the soup. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, hearty meal with minimal effort, ensuring each bowl remains just as delicious as if made fresh!
Creamy Reuben Soup Variations
Customizing your Creamy Reuben Soup is a delightful way to add your personal touch to this comforting dish!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute corned beef with turkey for a lighter yet equally tasty option. You’ll still get that savory goodness, just with a twist.
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Herb Delight: Toss in chopped fresh dill or parsley to brighten the flavors. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich soup beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat. The warmth elevates the overall experience, making each bite exciting.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream to make it dairy-free. The coconut milk provides creaminess with a hint of sweetness that works surprisingly well.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the soup’s heartiness. This variation adds delectable texture and depth of flavor.
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Different Cheese: Swap Swiss for Gouda or Pepper Jack. Each cheese brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to experiment with every comforting bowl.
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Bread Variations: Experiment with pumpernickel or sourdough for your croutons. Each bread offers distinct flavors that can pair beautifully with the soup’s creamy base.
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Sweetness Addition: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to balance out the tanginess from the sauerkraut. This subtle sweetness can elevate the dish to new heights.
Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup
- Quality Ingredients: Use good quality Swiss cheese for optimal meltiness—it’s crucial for achieving that dreamy, creamy texture.
- Crouton Crunch: Don’t skip the toasted rye bread croutons; they add essential crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Taste Carefully: Be mindful when adding salt; both corned beef and sauerkraut are naturally salty, so adjust carefully.
- Consistency Control: If your soup thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add more chicken stock or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Sauerkraut Prep: Ensure your sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid excess moisture affecting the soup’s harmony.
- Personalize It: Feel free to experiment with variations, like swapping corned beef for turkey in your Creamy Reuben Soup for a lighter option.
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of corned beef should I use for the soup?
Using good quality corned beef is essential to achieving a rich flavor in your Creamy Reuben Soup. I recommend using a brisket cut, as it offers the best balance of tenderness and taste. If you want a twist, feel free to substitute with pastrami for a slightly different flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
To store your soup, place it in an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it sealed to retain its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Creamy Reuben Soup for up to 3 months. Just pour it into freezer-friendly containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Wait to add the croutons until after you’ve reheated the soup; this keeps them nice and crunchy!
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup thickens more than you’d like, simply add a bit more chicken stock or heavy cream! Start with 1/4 cup increments and stir well until you reach your desired consistency. It’s a simple fix to bring back that lovely, silky texture.
Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
The Creamy Reuben Soup can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rye bread for the croutons and ensure your stock is also gluten-free. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese in place of Swiss. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate allergies.
How can I tell if my sauerkraut is fresh?
When selecting sauerkraut, look for one that appears crisp and firm, without dark spots or a sour smell. Fresh sauerkraut should have a tangy taste and vibrant color. It’s best to drain it before adding to the soup to reduce excess moisture. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Hearty Creamy Reuben Soup: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped corned beef, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock and add well-drained sauerkraut. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting bubble for about 10 minutes.
- Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a little water, then stir this into the soup. Continue to stir until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add heavy cream along with Swiss cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
- Butter rye bread and dice into cubes. Toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Ladle soup into bowls, topping with toasted croutons. Enjoy warm!