Creamy Reuben Soup

Alright, let’s get cooking, fellow flavor seekers! I’m River Quinn, and nothing brings me more joy than sharing simple ways to create authentic family meals. This Creamy Reuben Soup is one of those recipes that instantly warms the heart and fills the kitchen with incredible aromas. It’s a hearty, flavorful hug in a bowl!

This Creamy Reuben Soup journey started on a particularly chilly evening. My family was craving comfort food, something more exciting than our usual soup rotation. I wanted to create a dish that not only satisfied their appetites but also brought back fond memories of our favorite Reuben sandwiches.

The biggest challenge? Balancing the richness of the corned beef with the tang of sauerkraut and the creamy texture that my family adores. Through a bit of kitchen experimentation, I finally landed on the perfect combination of spices and ingredients that truly sing together.

What surprised me most was how easily this Creamy Reuben Soup became a family favorite. It’s now a dish we look forward to all year round, especially during those cozy evenings when we want something comforting and satisfying.

This Creamy Reuben Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the process, and connect with your loved ones over a delicious, home-cooked meal. For those of you seeking genuine, flavorful meals that bring families together, let’s get started!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Creamy Reuben Soup. Trust me, this ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for sautéing the vegetables.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a foundational savory flavor.
  • 2 carrots, chopped: Contributes sweetness and texture.
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides aromatic depth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic – it adds a beautiful pungent note!
  • 8 cups beef broth: Use a high-quality beef broth for the richest flavor.
  • 1 pound corned beef, chopped: Find a good quality corned beef from your local butcher.
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sauerkraut, drained and rinsed: Rinsing helps mellow the sourness.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious creamy texture.
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds richness and tanginess.
  • 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese: The classic Reuben cheese!
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: For a touch of freshness.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For umami depth.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: My secret ingredient for smoky richness!
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
  • Salt to taste: Season to your preference.

You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Creamy Reuben Soup at your local farmer’s market or a well-stocked grocery store. For the best flavor in your Creamy Reuben Soup, I recommend sourcing sauerkraut that isn’t overly acidic.

Ingredients for Creamy Reuben Soup including corned beef, sauerkraut, and vegetables

Remember, authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices. My family loves when I add a pinch of caraway seeds for an extra layer of flavor to our rich Creamy Reuben Soup. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference!

Let’s Create This Together!

Ready to bring this easy Creamy Reuben Soup to life? Let’s get started. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of deliciousness in no time!

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is the perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t let it burn! This step builds a base of flavor for your Creamy Reuben Soup.
  3. Pour in the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are flavor gold!
  4. Add Corned Beef: Stir in the chopped corned beef. Bring the soup to a simmer. In my kitchen, this flavorful Creamy Reuben Soup typically simmers for at least 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Incorporate Sauerkraut and Seasonings: Add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Creamy Reuben Soup – rinsing the sauerkraut! It mellows the flavor, so it doesn’t overpower the soup.
  6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. Your Creamy Reuben Soup should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now. This step is all about building depth of flavor.
  7. Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Don’t be surprised if your Creamy Reuben Soup develops a beautiful, rich color. This step is crucial for that signature creamy texture.
  8. Add Swiss Cheese: Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until melted and incorporated. I find that adding the cheese at the end gives it the best melt.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Creamy Reuben Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy! While your Creamy Reuben Soup is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!

This Reuben soup recipe is one that my family truly adores. You can find more inspiration for a great Creamy Reuben Soup here.

How We Love to Enjoy This!

This comforting Creamy Reuben Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s how we love to enjoy it in my family.

The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Creamy Reuben Soup appears with a side of crusty rye bread for dipping. The combination of the warm, creamy soup and the chewy bread is simply irresistible.

We often pair this soup with a simple green salad to balance the richness. The crisp, fresh greens provide a lovely contrast to the hearty soup.

This Creamy Reuben Soup is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying. It’s also a great dish to serve to guests. I’ve received countless compliments on its unique and delicious flavor.

For presentation, I love to garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of extra Swiss cheese and a dollop of sour cream. It adds a touch of elegance and enhances the creamy texture.

Got leftovers? No problem! This Creamy Reuben Soup is even better the next day. You can also transform it into a creamy sauce for pasta or use it as a filling for baked potatoes.

During the colder months, I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little extra warmth. It’s a seasonal variation that my family particularly enjoys.

For more ways to enjoy a twist on corned beef in soup, there are many ways to add your own twist as described in this recipe.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Creamy Reuben Soup. I hope these answers help you create your best version of this flavorful dish!

Does this Creamy Reuben Soup really satisfy hearty appetites?

Absolutely! The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and creamy broth makes it incredibly filling.

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Creamy Reuben Soup?

You can reduce the amount of sauerkraut or rinse it more thoroughly to mellow the sourness. Adding a touch of sweetness, like a teaspoon of sugar, can also help balance the flavors.

How can I prepare this Creamy Reuben Soup ahead for busy weeks?

You can make the soup a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cream and cheese just before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this Creamy Reuben Soup?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream and cheese may change slightly. I recommend freezing it before adding the dairy for the best results.

What type of corned beef works best in this Creamy Reuben Soup?

I prefer using a good quality deli-style corned beef. You can also use leftover corned beef from a previous meal.

Can I make this Creamy Reuben Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the cream and cheese before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Reuben Soup?

While it wouldn’t be a Reuben soup, you could use smoked tofu or mushrooms in place of the corned beef for a similar flavor profile. Consider a mushroom swiss melt instead!

Here is another great recipe with sauerkraut to explore.

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This Creamy Reuben Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home, one delicious bowl at a time. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own!

This fantastic Creamy Reuben Soup supports my family’s authentic meal goals by providing a satisfying, flavorful, and comforting dish that we all love.

My Creamy Reuben Soup Flavor Secrets:

  1. Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth that elevates the entire soup.
  2. Rinsing the Sauerkraut: This step is crucial for balancing the flavors.
  3. Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality beef broth and corned beef makes a huge difference.

Family-Tested Creamy Reuben Soup Variations:

  1. Spicy Reuben Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. My husband loves this version!
  2. Deluxe Reuben Soup: Top with croutons made from rye bread for extra crunch. The kids adore this!
  3. Cheesy Reuben Soup: Add a blend of Swiss and Gruyere cheese for an even richer flavor. This is my personal favorite!

I encourage you to make this recipe your signature version by experimenting with different spices and toppings. The most important thing is to create something that your family will love.

I hope your family enjoys this rich and flavorful Creamy Reuben Soup as much as mine does. Remember, the best meals are made with love and shared with those you cherish.

Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of a delicious Creamy Reuben Soup! I also think you’ll love this Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup for a comforting and savory alternative.

Bowl of Creamy Reuben Soup garnished with parsley
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Creamy Reuben Soup

Creamy Reuben Soup in Bowl

Enjoy the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a comforting soup! This creamy Reuben soup is packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, making it a hearty and delicious meal.

  • Author: River Quinn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
  • 1 pound corned beef, cooked and chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Rye bread croutons, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  2. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add sauerkraut and corned beef.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Swiss cheese. Cook until cheese is melted and soup is heated through, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing and rye bread croutons, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve with a side of rye bread for dipping.

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