This creamy Reuben soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—think tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese.
And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want their favorite sandwich in soup form? I love to serve it with some crunchy bread on the side for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is used for sautéing the onions and garlic. If you’re avoiding butter, you can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter option.
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onions are great for sweetness. If you need a milder taste, go for shallots. Garlic powder can also work if you’re short on fresh garlic, using about 1/4 teaspoon.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Golds for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for lower carbs, cauliflower can be a good substitute, just blend it at the end for a creamy consistency!
Sauerkraut: This gives that classic tang. If you don’t have it, try using coleslaw mix with a splash of vinegar to mimic the flavor—but it won’t be as tangy.
Corned Beef: Deli corned beef works best, but if you’re vegetarian, you can swap it for chickpeas or a meat alternative. This keeps the heartiness without the meat.
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss adds a nice melt, Gruyère is a good alternative. If you’re dairy-free, there are great nut-based cheeses that can mimic the creaminess!
How Do I Make the Cream Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key to this soup. It’s all about how you combine the ingredients and the temperature you use.
- Start by cooking the onions and garlic gently. If they burn, it can affect the flavor.
- When you add the heavy cream, make sure the heat is low. High heat could cause it to curdle. Stir continuously until everything is well blended.
- Add the cheese gradually, letting it melt in slowly for the best creamy outcome. Mixing it in off the heat will help!
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 1/2 cups corned beef, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped for garnish
Estimated Time to Prepare:
This delicious Creamy Reuben Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to keep it from burning.
2. Combine Potatoes and Sauerkraut:
Add the diced potatoes and chopped sauerkraut to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This helps to mix the flavors nicely!
3. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
4. Stir in Corned Beef:
Now, add the chopped corned beef to the pot. Give it a good stir to incorporate the beef and heat it through for a few minutes.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, shredded Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Watch that heat to keep it from boiling!
6. Season and Serve:
Taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Once everything is just the way you like it, ladle the soup into bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives on top for garnish. Serve hot, and if you like, enjoy it with some rye bread or croutons for dipping!
And there you have it! A delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, now as a creamy, comforting soup perfect for chilly days. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben, you can use Gruyère for a slight twist or even a flavor-packed smoked gouda. If you want a dairy-free option, there are plant-based cheeses that melt well!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra liquid if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this soup vegetarian, skip the corned beef and consider adding chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture or hearty beans for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with rye bread or buttery crackers. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
