Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
Introduction
Imagine the classic Reuben sandwich—crispy rye bread, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing—turned into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. That’s exactly what Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is all about!
This rich, velvety soup delivers the bold flavors of a Reuben sandwich in spoonable form, perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night. Whether you’re a Reuben sandwich lover or simply looking for a unique, hearty soup, this creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy dish will satisfy your cravings.
It’s easy to make, packed with layers of flavor, and is sure to impress family and guests alike. Let’s dive into this deliciously comforting recipe!
History of the Reuben
The Reuben sandwich originated in the early 1900s, with two popular theories about its invention:
- Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, is said to have created it for his poker night crew in the 1920s.
- Arnold Reuben, a New York deli owner, claimed he made the first Reuben sandwich for a Broadway actress in 1914.
Regardless of its origins, the Reuben became a deli classic, loved for its combination of salty, tangy, creamy, and crispy textures. Over time, chefs have experimented with new variations, leading to the creation of the Reuben soup, which captures the essence of the sandwich in a warm, comforting bowl.
Benefits of Creamy Reuben Soup
✅ Rich in Protein – Corned beef provides a good amount of protein, keeping you full.
✅ Gut-Friendly – Sauerkraut is packed with probiotics that support digestion.
✅ Comforting & Satisfying – The warm, creamy texture makes it perfect for cold weather.
✅ Easy to Make – Requires simple ingredients and can be made in one pot.
✅ Customizable – Can be made low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free with simple tweaks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped or shredded
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for that authentic rye flavor)
For Garnishing:
- Rye croutons or toasted rye bread
- Extra shredded Swiss cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup diced potatoes (for extra texture)
- 1 tablespoon Thousand Island dressing (for a tangy twist)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flavor.
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Add corned beef, sauerkraut, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, black pepper, paprika, and caraway seeds.
- Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
- Slowly stir in heavy cream and let it warm up (don’t boil).
- Add Swiss cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until completely melted.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top with rye croutons, extra cheese, and fresh parsley.
- Enjoy your warm, creamy, and tangy Reuben soup!
Serving Suggestions
🔥 Pair with toasted rye bread for dipping.
🔥 Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
🔥 Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing for an extra Reuben kick.
🔥 Add a fried egg on top for a rich and hearty brunch option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fats | 32g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 960mg |
| Calcium | 250mg |
(Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient choices.)
Why People Love This Recipe
❤️ Perfect Comfort Food – Creamy, cheesy, and soul-warming.
❤️ Bold, Tangy, & Savory – Just like a Reuben sandwich but in soup form.
❤️ One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup, minimal dishes.
❤️ Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Conclusion
If you love Reuben sandwiches, this Easy Creamy Reuben Soup will be your new favorite comfort dish. It’s a rich, indulgent soup that brings together classic deli flavors in a warm and creamy bowl.
This recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or party appetizer. Try it today, and fall in love with the flavors of the Reuben—reimagined!
Would you like a slow cooker version or a low-carb alternative? Let me know! 😊🍲