Creamy Reuben Soup 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Once the onions and garlic are cooked, stir in the corned beef and sauerkraut. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corned beef to heat through.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thousand island dressing, and caraway seeds (if using). Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream from scorching.

Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese

Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have come together, add the shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy and rich texture.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. You can also add more mustard or dressing if you want a tangier flavor, or more sauerkraut if you like it extra zesty.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you like, serve with a side of grilled rye bread or rye croutons for the perfect accompaniment.

How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a main dish, but here are a few ways to serve it up:

• With Grilled Rye Bread: A classic Reuben sandwich is made with rye bread, so why not serve your soup with a warm, buttered grilled rye bread for dipping? It’s a perfect way to enhance the flavors and add some crunch.
• Crusty Rye Croutons: Make rye croutons by cutting rye bread into cubes, tossing them in olive oil, and toasting them in the oven. They’re great for sprinkling over the soup to add texture.
• A Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing side salad with a simple vinaigrette would balance out the richness of the soup. Try a light cabbage slaw for a nod to the Reuben’s sauerkraut.
• Pickles: Serve with dill pickle spears or a side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.

Why This Recipe Works

• Reuben Flavors in a Soup: The classic Reuben flavors — corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing — come together beautifully in this soup. The tangy, creamy broth mirrors the sandwich’s components, making it an instant comfort food hit.
• Creamy and Cozy: The combination of heavy cream and Swiss cheese makes this soup wonderfully creamy, while the mustard and thousand island dressing provide that signature zesty kick that you love in a Reuben.
• Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or another celebration, this soup is a fantastic way to repurpose it. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben without having to make sandwiches every time.
• Easy and Quick: This soup comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Plus, it’s made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, you can substitute the corned beef with vegetarian corned “beef” or tempeh. While it won’t have the same flavor, it’ll still provide a hearty base for the soup.
• Spicy Twist: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the soup. The spice will pair beautifully with the creamy and tangy flavors.
• Lighten It Up: If you’re looking to make the soup a bit lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be mindful that the texture may change slightly.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes, to make it heartier. These will add more texture and nutrients without compromising the core flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Reuben Soup is a warm and satisfying dish that takes the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich and transforms them into a rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it with leftover corned beef or just craving a comforting, flavorful bowl, this soup will hit the spot every time. Serve it with some rye bread or croutons, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to delight.

Give this recipe a try, and let the creamy, zesty, and savory flavors of the Reuben shine through in a whole new way! Enjoy this comforting dish any time you want to indulge in a cozy, feel-good meal.