A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
This Creamy Reuben Soup brings a warm and cozy feeling right to your kitchen. It combines all those familiar flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into a creamy, comforting bowl of soup. This dish is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something hearty and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What sets this Creamy Reuben Soup apart? It’s the easy-to-make fusion of your favorite sandwich into a delightful soup. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the salty corned beef and tangy sauerkraut. Plus, the melted Swiss cheese added on top makes it feel indulgent. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for entertaining.
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 pound corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rye bread croutons for garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well to combine.
- Add the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Mix in the shredded Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, topped with rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Enjoying Your Creamy Reuben Soup
This soup is best enjoyed hot, fresh off the stove. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad to make a complete meal.
Keeping Your Creamy Reuben Soup Fresh
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Tips for Perfecting Creamy Reuben Soup
- Taste and adjust your seasonings as you go. Each ingredient brings its own flavor, and you can tweak them to suit your preferences.
- For added depth, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for extra zing.
- If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Fun Variations to Try
- Swap in turkey for a lighter alternative to corned beef.
- Add some vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and texture.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and a meat alternative along with vegan cheese.
Nutritional Information
While this soup is hearty and filling, the specific nutritional content can depend on the exact ingredients used. Generally, it contains proteins from the corned beef and cheese, healthy fats from cream and butter, and carbohydrates from the flour.
Serving Ideas for Family
Serve your Creamy Reuben Soup with a side of fresh, crunchy salad or a selection of pickles. It’s also delightful with a simple grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience.
What Pairs Perfectly with This Soup?
Pair your soup with a crisp, green salad dressed with light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A glass of crisp white wine or a light beer could also be great companions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes, but keep in mind that the cream may change texture when frozen. It’s best to freeze it before adding dairy, then stir in the cream upon reheating.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have all the ingredients?
Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have. Different cheeses or meats can still yield a delicious soup.
Creamy Reuben Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Liquids and Cream
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 pound corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Seasoning and Garnish
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Rye bread croutons for garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well to combine.
- Add the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Mix in the shredded Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, topped with rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color.
