Here’s a rich, hearty, and ultra–comforting Creamy Reuben Soup—all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich (corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye) in a warm, creamy bowl. Perfect for cold weather or using up leftover corned beef!
🥣 Creamy Reuben Soup
Serves: 4–6
Ready in: 35–40 minutes
🧅 Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained (reserve 2–3 tbsp juice for flavor)
- 8 oz cooked corned beef, chopped or shredded
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, but very “rye bread” flavored)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional thickener: 1–2 tbsp flour or cornstarch slurry
- Optional toppings: rye croutons, extra Swiss, fresh dill
🍲 Instructions
1. Sauté the Onion Base
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook 5–6 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
2. Add Corned Beef + Sauerkraut
- Stir in chopped corned beef.
- Add the sauerkraut and 2–3 tbsp sauerkraut brine for added tang.
- Cook 2–3 minutes to warm and combine flavors.
3. Add Broth + Seasonings
- Pour in chicken or beef broth.
- Add Dijon mustard and caraway seeds.
- Bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Make It Creamy
- Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
- For a thicker soup, whisk 1–2 tbsp flour into a splash of cream first, or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Bring back to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese
- Lower heat and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until fully melted.
- Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve
Top with:
- Rye croutons (SO good!)
- Extra Swiss cheese
- A sprinkle of dill or parsley
⭐ Tips & Variations
- More tang: Add extra sauerkraut brine or a small splash of pickle juice.
- More richness: Add a handful more Swiss or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Vegetable boost: Add diced celery or carrots when sautéing onions.
- Slow Cooker: Combine everything except cheese and cream; cook 4 hours on LOW; add cream + cheese at the end.
If you’d like, I can also give you a Reuben Casserole, Reuben Dip, or a Low-Carb Reuben Soup version!
