Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Update : October 14, 2025

Bowl of creamy Reuben soup garnished with herbs and served with rye bread.

Creamy Reuben Soup brings a comforting and delightful twist to a classic sandwich. If you enjoy the traditional flavors of a Reuben sandwich with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and dressing, you’ll love this soup version. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with all the wonderful tastes that make the Reuben sandwich so special. Whether you are looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a hearty dish to impress your friends and family, this soup is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into why you should consider making this incredible recipe.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to prepare Creamy Reuben Soup. First, it’s a unique way to enjoy the classic Reuben flavors without the fuss of sandwich preparation. The soup offers the same comforting taste but in a more relaxed and easy-to-serve manner.

Moreover, this soup is perfect for many occasions. You can serve it at family dinners, casual gatherings, or even on chilly weeknights when you want something warm and filling.

Another great reason to make this dish is its simple ingredients. With just a few common items, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time. It is also versatile; you can adjust seasonings or add extra ingredients based on your preferences. Plus, the creamy texture is simply irresistible.

Let’s not forget that this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s the kind of recipe that warms the soul and satisfies the stomach. Now that we know why to make this recipe, let’s learn how to create it.

How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup

Making Creamy Reuben Soup is straightforward and fun. With a step-by-step process, you can easily follow along and create this fantastic dish. Here is what you will need:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 pound corned beef, chopped
1 cup sauerkraut, drained
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
Rye bread croutons for garnish
Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Melt the Butter: Start by taking a large pot and melting the butter over medium heat. This will provide a flavorful base for the soup.
Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it gets translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook briefly until fragrant.
Make a Roux: Sprinkle in the flour to the onion and garlic mixture to form a roux. Stir this mixture for 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly and absorb the flavors.
Add Chicken Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to the roux. Make sure to mix well to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is when the flavors begin to come together.
Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Mix it well with the broth, enriching the soup’s texture and making it creamy.
Add Meats and Sauerkraut: Now, add the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut to the pot. Stir everything together well to combine the ingredients.
Incorporate Cheese and Dressing: Mix in the shredded Swiss cheese and the Russian dressing. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into the soup, giving it that creamy consistency.
Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
Simmer: Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. This will help all the flavors meld together, and your kitchen will start to smell fantastic.
Serve: Serve the soup hot in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with rye bread croutons and chopped parsley for that extra touch.

How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup

When it comes to serving Creamy Reuben Soup, there are a few great options to consider. The soup can be served as a main dish since it’s hearty and filling. Pair it with a side salad or some fresh bread to complete the meal.

For a more rustic presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls. This adds a fun element and enhances the Reuben theme. Ladle the soup into the bread bowls and place them on a plate.

When garnishing, don’t skip the rye bread croutons. They not only provide crunch but also complement the flavors of the soup beautifully. The chopped parsley adds a nice color contrast and freshness to the dish.

If you want to elevate the dining experience, consider serving a light dessert afterward. An apple pie or chocolate mousse would be a delightful ending after enjoying your creamy soup.

How to Store Creamy Reuben Soup

Storing Creamy Reuben Soup is easy and convenient. If you have leftover soup, allow it to cool down a bit before transferring it to airtight containers.

You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months.

When you are ready to reheat, make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may want to add a bit more broth or cream to adjust the consistency if it thickens during storage.

Tips to Make Creamy Reuben Soup

Here are some tips to help you make the best possible Creamy Reuben Soup:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh produce for the best flavor. Fresh onions and garlic can significantly enhance the taste.
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with whole milk or half-and-half.
Cheese Choices: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyere for a different flavor profile.
Cook the Meat First: If you’re using leftover corned beef or have any of it cooked, you can add it later in the recipe for a more robust flavor.
Customize Toppings: Beyond rye bread croutons, consider adding pickles or even a swirl of additional dressing on top for added flavor and presentation.

Variation

You can play around with this recipe to create various versions of the soup. For a vegetarian twist, replace the corned beef with shredded cabbage or mushrooms. This will maintain the essence of the soup while providing a meat-free option.

Another variation could be to add some spices like caraway seeds, which are a perfect match for the flavors of the Reuben. If you like spice, consider adding a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

FAQs

Can I use leftover corned beef for this soup?

Yes! Leftover corned beef is perfect for this recipe. It adds great flavor and makes the soup even easier to prepare.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Creamy Reuben Soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

Is there a gluten-free option for the soup?

Yes, you can create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour and ensuring your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers. When reheating, you might need to add a little extra cream or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Creating Creamy Reuben Soup is an enjoyable experience, full of delightful flavors and textures. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a dish that warms heart and soul. Happy cooking!