This creamy Reuben soup brings all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a warm bowl. It’s made with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese!
You’ll want to cozy up with this soup on chilly days. I love to top mine with crispy croutons for that extra crunch! It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: This is the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with turkey or smoked sausage, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian version by adding mushrooms.
Sauerkraut: This ingredient adds tanginess. If you’re not a fan, you can use coleslaw mix or skip it altogether, but then you’ll miss out on that classic Reuben flavor!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is creamy and melts nicely, but if you can’t find it, provolone or gouda work well. Some might even love a bit of sharp cheddar for extra flavor!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but note that the soup may not be as rich.
How Do You Create a Smooth Soup Without Lumps?
Creating a creamy, lump-free soup is all about the roux! Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the flour with the butter until it’s lightly golden; this helps flavors develop. Keep stirring so it doesn’t brown too much.
- When adding chicken broth, pour it in slowly while whisking continuously. This helps to break up any lumps that form.
- Don’t rush the process—patience is key! Gradually adding liquids while mixing well will result in a beautifully smooth soup.
Creamy Reuben Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Rye bread or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Reuben soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to cook. Overall, you should set aside around 35-40 minutes to make this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook them until they are softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
Add the flour to the pot and stir it in, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This will help develop a roux, which thickens the soup. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps forming.
3. Add the Key Ingredients:
Now, add the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut to the soup base. Next, stir in the Dijon mustard. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together nicely.
4. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. Then, add the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring until it is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Season and Heat Through:
Taste the soup now and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Continue cooking gently until the soup is heated through. Make sure not to boil the soup after adding the cream to keep it from curdling.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the creamy Reuben soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for an added touch, and serve it alongside slices of rye or crusty bread. Enjoy your comforting bowl of deliciousness!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef from a previous meal works perfectly. Just chop it up into bite-sized pieces and add it directly to the soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the corned beef and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more veggies like carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing due to the cream.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with rye bread or crusty artisan bread. You could also serve it with a simple green salad or potato chips for added crunch!
