If you love the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing—you'll adore this Reuben-inspired soup. It's a hearty, creamy soup that delivers all the sandwich's iconic flavors in a comforting, bowl-friendly form.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rye Croutons (Optional):
- 4 slices rye bread, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
- Stir in the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut.
- Sauté for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Create the Creamy Broth
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well (if using) to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Melt the Cheese
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer (do not boil to avoid curdling the cream).
- Gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, letting it melt completely into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Rye Croutons (Optional)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the rye bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter and garlic powder.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with rye croutons or extra shredded Swiss cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of a Reuben in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Reuben Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly cooked corned beef or deli slices for the best flavor.
- Balance the Tanginess: Adjust the amount of sauerkraut to suit your taste. Add a splash of pickle juice for extra tang if desired.
- Thicken as Needed: If the soup feels too thin, let it simmer a little longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Variations
- Lighter Version: Use whole milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese for a less indulgent option.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace corned beef with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and cheese may separate.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Comfort Food in a Bowl: All the best parts of a Reuben sandwich in a creamy, savory soup.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the tanginess, creaminess, or spice level to your preference.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Reuben-inspired soup is the ultimate comfort food mashup. With its rich texture, bold flavors, and nod to the classic sandwich, it’s sure to become a favorite for chilly evenings or when you're craving something unique. Pair it with a side of rye bread or enjoy it on its own for a truly satisfying meal. Bon appétit! 🍲✨