This Reuben Soup is a cozy twist on the classic sandwich! With tender bits of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy cheese, it’s full of flavor.
Who knew soup could be so filling? I love pairing it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. It’s comfort food made easy, perfect for chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Butter is essential for flavor. If you want a healthier option, you could use olive oil instead. Just be mindful that it may change the taste slightly!
Corned Beef: Diced cooked corned beef adds that classic Reuben taste. If you prefer a lighter option, try using shredded turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute. It works well in the soup too!
Sauerkraut: This ingredient gives a nice tang. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it, but it’s worth trying! You could also use pickles for a different twist.
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss is traditional, you can substitute with Gruyère for a richer flavor or even mozzarella if you want a milder taste. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy and Delicious?
The key to a creamy Reuben Soup lies in how you incorporate the creams and cheeses. Start with a roux (flour and butter mixture) to thicken the soup.
- When you add cream, make sure the heat is low, so it doesn’t curdle.
- Gradually stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth for a rich texture.
Don’t rush this step! A little patience during cooking helps achieve a creamy finish. Taste and season with salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor.
Reuben Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth or stock
- 2 cups diced cooked corned beef
- 1 1/2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup drained sauerkraut, chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
For Serving:
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Reuben Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced carrot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This helps build a flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Flour:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic. Then, sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to form a roux. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth until the mixture is smooth. This will give your soup its hearty body!
4. Incorporate the Main Ingredients:
Add the diced potatoes, corned beef, and chopped sauerkraut to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This step melds all the flavors beautifully!
5. Make it Creamy:
Once the potatoes are tender, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, shredded Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds if using. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. This is the part where it starts looking delicious!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded Swiss cheese and fresh dill sprigs for a lovely presentation.
7. Enjoy!
Accompany the soup with warm crusty bread for dipping. It’s the ultimate comfort meal that captures all the delightful flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a bowl!
Enjoy your hearty Reuben Soup!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef is perfect for this recipe. Just dice it up and add it to the soup along with the other ingredients. It makes for a quick and delicious meal!
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the overall taste, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover Reuben Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth, skip the corned beef, and replace it with hearty vegetables or plant-based meat. You can also add lentils for extra protein!