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Soup with a creamy texture inspired by Reuben sandwiches.




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

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

  1. Stir in the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut.
  2. Sauté for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.

3. Create the Creamy Broth

  1. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well (if using) to create a roux.
  2. Slowly pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Add the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

4. Melt the Cheese

  1. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer (do not boil to avoid curdling the cream).
  2. Gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, letting it melt completely into the soup.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Prepare the Rye Croutons (Optional)

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Toss the rye bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter and garlic powder.
  3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

6. Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with rye croutons or extra shredded Swiss cheese.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of a Reuben in every bite!

Tips for the Perfect Reuben Soup

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly cooked corned beef or deli slices for the best flavor.
  2. Balance the Tanginess: Adjust the amount of sauerkraut to suit your taste. Add a splash of pickle juice for extra tang if desired.
  3. Thicken as Needed: If the soup feels too thin, let it simmer a little longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Variations

  1. Lighter Version: Use whole milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese for a less indulgent option.
  2. Vegetarian Twist: Replace corned beef with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  3. 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! 🍲✨