Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich but crave something cozy and bowl-friendly, then let me introduce you to the Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic. This soup captures all the iconic flavors you love—tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and that distinctive Russian dressing—but in a rich, luscious broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings the sandwich’s essence to your spoon, making every bite utterly satisfying and delightfully creamy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each ingredient plays a starring role in creating layers of flavor and texture that elevate this soup beyond the ordinary. From the buttery base to the punch of sauerkraut and the smoothness of cream, every component works in harmony to deliver that unmistakable Reuben vibe.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for starting your soup with a rich, silky foundation that cooks the aromatics beautifully.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes slightly in the butter.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle kick that enhances all the savory notes without overpowering the soup.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a roux that thickens the soup to a perfectly creamy consistency.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The base liquid that carries the flavors and provides warmth and comfort in every sip.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds velvety smoothness and richness, making the soup irresistibly creamy.
• 1/2 pound corned beef, chopped: The star protein that delivers authentic, savory Reuben flavor in every spoonful.
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained: The tangy, fermented element that cuts through the richness and lifts the soup’s flavor profile.
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts into the soup for a nutty, gooey finish that defines the Reuben experience.
• 1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing: Offers that classic zesty, creamy punch that ties everything together perfectly.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season carefully to balance all those bold ingredients.
• Rye bread croutons for garnish: Adds a crunchy, toasty contrast to the creamy soup—don’t skip these!
• Chopped parsley for garnish: Freshens up the dish with a pop of color and slight herbal brightness.

How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add your chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook these gently until the onions turn translucent and sweet-scented, which takes about 5 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor that will infuse the entire soup.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. This simple technique helps eliminate raw flour taste and forms a roux, the magical thickening agent that will give your soup its creamy texture.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to keep stirring so no lumps form. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the roux to fully blend with the liquid and start thickening the soup’s base.

Step 4: Stir in Cream

Turn the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. This addition transforms the broth into a luxurious, silky canvas for the bold Reuben flavors that are next to join the party.

Step 5: Incorporate Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Add your chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut into the pot. Stir them through so each bite has that classic salty, tangy, meaty goodness that defines the Reuben profile.

Step 6: Melt in Cheese and Dressing

Mix in the shredded Swiss cheese and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. Continue stirring gently until the cheese melts completely and the soup turns creamy and cohesive—a true hallmark of the Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic.

Step 7: Season and Simmer

Adjust with salt and black pepper as needed, then let the soup simmer for about 10 more minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and deepen, ensuring every spoonful bursts with that unmistakable Reuben magic.

How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Garnishes

Top your bowl with crunchy rye bread croutons for texture contrast, and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the bold flavors.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some classic pickles to enhance the tang of the sauerkraut. For an extra cozy meal, serve alongside warm rye sandwiches or buttery dinner rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out rye bread bowls—this adds a charming rustic vibe and an edible container that complements the soup’s rye garnish. Alternatively, drizzle a little extra Russian dressing on top in a swirl pattern for a gorgeous, professional touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that cream-based soups sometimes separate when thawed. Freeze in portions without the rye croutons and parsley garnish for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the velvety texture. Add fresh croutons and parsley after reheating for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this soup?

While Swiss cheese is traditional for its nutty flavor and meltability, you can experiment with Gruyère or even mozzarella for a milder taste, but the classic profile is best achieved with Swiss.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

To keep the spirit of the dish but go meat-free, substitute the corned beef with smoked tempeh or mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Just note that it won’t have the exact Reuben flavor, but it will still be delicious and creamy.

What can I use if I don’t have Russian dressing?

Thousand Island dressing is a perfect substitute and often very similar in taste. You can also mix mayonnaise with a little ketchup and horseradish to mimic the flavor.

How thick is the soup supposed to be?

The soup should be creamy and rich enough to coat a spoon but still pour easily. If it feels too thick, add a bit more broth; if too thin, allow it to simmer a little longer to reduce.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Follow the initial sauté steps on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheese and dressing in the last 30 minutes to melt and blend perfectly.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic. It’s hands down one of the most comforting and flavorful bowls you’ll make, perfect for days when you want something hearty and nostalgic yet fresh and exciting. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, cozy up, and savor this delightful Reuben-inspired creation—it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort food!

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