As I stirred the pot, the rich aromas whisked me back to my childhood—scents of corned beef mingling with tangy sauerkraut created a nostalgic embrace. My Creamy Reuben Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a delicious twist on a classic sandwich that warms the heart. Perfect for those chilly evenings, this soup showcases the unmistakable flavors of a traditional Reuben in a cozy, creamy format that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its comforting texture and hearty ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or an intimate dinner party. Plus, it’s adaptable for your preferences, allowing you to swap ingredients and make it your own. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the creamy goodness!

Why is Creamy Reuben Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth fills your kitchen as you savor each spoonful of this Creamy Reuben Soup. Elevated flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Quick to prepare, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Versatile options allow you to swap ingredients to match your taste—using turkey for a lighter twist or opting for gluten-free flour. No matter who you’re serving, this hearty soup is sure to impress, much like my other recipes such as Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon or Tortellini Tomatoes Comforting.

Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and serves as the base for sautéing.
• Onion – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor profile; use fresh for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; alternatively, gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Chicken Broth – Acts as the soup’s liquid base; low-sodium options are recommended to control saltiness.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes to the creamy texture; can substitute with half-and-half or low-fat milk for a lighter version.

For the Main Ingredients
• Corned Beef – The star protein ingredient, providing heartiness; can be substituted with turkey, chicken, or pastrami for variations.
• Sauerkraut – Adds tanginess; ensure it’s drained to prevent excess liquid in the soup.
• Swiss Cheese – Melts into the soup for a rich flavor; other cheeses can be used for a different taste.
• Russian or Thousand Island Dressing – Adds an extra layer of flavor; serves as a nod to the original sandwich.

For Seasoning & Garnish
• Salt and Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to personal taste.
• Rye Bread Croutons – Garnish that provides crunch and enhances the Reuben experience.
• Chopped Parsley – Adds freshness and color to the dish.

Get ready to savor every sip of this Creamy Reuben Soup as it fills your home with inviting aromas!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Reuben Soup

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

Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for 2 minutes. Cook until the mixture is slightly golden and smells nutty, which prevents a raw flour taste in your creamy soup. This thickens the base beautifully, setting the stage for the next ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes. Watch for small bubbles on the surface, indicating it’s simmering nicely.

Step 4: Mix in the Cream
Lower the heat to a medium-low setting and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream until fully combined. This step transforms your mixture into a lush and creamy foundation. Allow it to warm through for about 3 minutes without boiling, which helps blend the flavors seamlessly.

Step 5: Incorporate the Key Ingredients
Add 2 cups of chopped corned beef and 1 cup of drained sauerkraut, stirring thoroughly to combine. Cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the corned beef heat up, creating that iconic taste profile of a Reuben.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Dressing
Stir in 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese along with 1/4 cup of Russian or Thousand Island dressing. Keep stirring over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup becomes richly creamy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This is where the magic happens, giving your Creamy Reuben Soup its signature flavor.

Step 7: Season and Simmer
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let it simmer gently for an extra 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to deepen. The soup should be boiling softly, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas that draw everyone to the table.

Step 8: Serve with Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness. Serve hot to fully savor the warmth and comfort of your Creamy Reuben Soup. Each bowl is a hearty delight, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring to reincorporate the ingredients back into a creamy consistency.

Texture Reminder: Note that the texture of the Creamy Reuben Soup may slightly change after thawing; a quick stir and gentle heating can help restore its creamy charm.

Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup

Properly Cook the Roux: Ensure the roux is cooked until slightly golden to avoid a raw flour taste—about 2 minutes will do the trick.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality corned beef for the best flavor; homemade is ideal, but deli options work well too.
Sauerkraut Prep: Remember to drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in your creamy Reuben soup.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with cheese types! While Swiss is traditional, trying Gruyère or sharp cheddar can elevate the flavor.
Explore Spice Options: Add a pinch of caraway seeds or cayenne pepper for an extra punch that enhances the overall flavors of the soup.

Creamy Reuben Soup Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this Creamy Reuben Soup with a few fun and tasty modifications!

Turkey Twist: Swap out corned beef for cooked turkey for a lighter, healthier option. This revelation can turn Sunday leftovers into a delightful weeknight meal.
Smoky Pastrami: Replace corned beef with pastrami for that delicious, smoky flavor. It’s a fantastic way to vary this comforting classic while maintaining its rich profile.
Gluten-Free Swap: For those needing gluten-free options, simply sub the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickening agent. You won’t sacrifice the creamy texture while keeping everyone happy!
Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with various cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyère. Each can impart a unique twist to your soup, making it an exciting adventure for your taste buds.
Lighten Up: Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. This will result in a lighter soup without losing the beloved creaminess you’re after.
Herb Garden Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives for an aromatic lift. These herbs can elevate the dish, adding a refreshing pop that perfectly complements the rich flavors.
Heat Things Up: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Spice can transform your comforting soup into a feisty delight!

With these variations, you’ll find it easy to tailor this Creamy Reuben Soup to your family’s tastes—a dish that remains comforting yet innovative, much like my beloved Chicken Mushroom Soup and Pot Lasagna Soup. Embrace your inner chef and enjoy the process of creating something uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides and pairing options that complement the luscious, hearty flavors of this soup.

Rustic Rye Bread: The classic choice, its earthy flavor and chewy texture provide the perfect accompaniment for dipping into your creamy soup.
Crispy Salad with Vinaigrette: A refreshing side, the crunch of greens along with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Potato Chips: For a crunch factor, serve with homemade or store-bought chips that add a satisfying crunch to each delicious spoonful.
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: Their tartness cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the traditional Reuben flavor profile in a delightful way.
Light Beer or Crisp White Wine: A chilled beverage can freshen the palate, making every bite of your comforting soup even more enjoyable.
Fruit Salad: A burst of sweetness from seasonal fruits provides a pleasant contrast and brightens the meal, adding a light touch to your hearty soup.

Let your meal come together beautifully with these pairs that enhance the warm embrace of Creamy Reuben Soup!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Reuben Soup delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the aromatics (onion and garlic) and create the roux up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (broth, cream, and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before adding the corned beef and sauerkraut. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the prepared base gently, stir in the corned beef and sauerkraut, season, and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves time but ensures a rich, delicious soup just as satisfying as if made fresh!

Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of corned beef should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! Using high-quality corned beef makes a big difference in flavor. I often recommend homemade corned beef if you have the time, but a good quality deli corned beef works wonderfully too. Look for tender cuts without a lot of gristle; it can elevate your Creamy Reuben Soup experience significantly.

How should I store Creamy Reuben Soup?
For sure! Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to keep things fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to bring back that lovely creamy texture.

Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your delicious soup, let it cool completely and then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion, which is essential! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. A little stir while it warms up helps restore its creamy consistency, which is key!

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
Very much so! If you find your soup thickening too much, no worries. Simply add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, adding liquids slowly is best to avoid making it too watery. I highly recommend keeping a little broth handy for just this occasion!

What if my sauerkraut is too sour for the soup?
That’s a great question! If your sauerkraut seems overly sour, you can rinse it under cold water and drain it well before adding it to the soup. This can help reduce some of the tanginess while retaining that unique flavor. A splash of vinegar can also balance the flavors beautifully if you prefer a sharper taste profile.