Creamy Reuben Soup is a cozy twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, blending the rich flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese all into one warm, comforting bowl. The creamy texture makes it feel like a hug in a bowl, with a savory broth that’s both filling and satisfying.
I love making this soup when I want something special but easy to put together. The way the tangy sauerkraut and beef come together with the creamy base is seriously delicious. I usually add a little extra cheese on top and some rye bread on the side to soak up every last bit—it feels like a little celebration every time!
Serving this soup is a blast because it reminds me of chilly nights when comfort food is exactly what you need. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or family, and I find it’s one of those recipes that gets better the next day, making great leftovers. If you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches, this soup will quickly become a new favorite way to enjoy those classic flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: This is the heart of the soup, giving it that classic Reuben flavor. If you can’t find corned beef, pastrami works well for a similar taste. Using deli meat saves time, but homemade corned beef will be even better.
Sauerkraut: Adds tangy brightness that balances the richness. If you prefer less tang, rinse and drain the sauerkraut to mellow its flavor. You can substitute with pickled cabbage, but the authentic tang is what makes the soup special.
Potatoes: We use diced potatoes for creaminess and texture. Yukon Gold or Russets work well. You can swap potatoes for parsnips or turnips for a different but tasty twist.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss melts smoothly and adds nuttiness. Gruyère or Jarlsberg are great alternatives if you want a slightly different flavor profile. Use a good melting cheese for the best creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: Makes the soup rich and silky. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less creamy. Coconut milk can be an unexpected dairy-free substitute.
How Do You Get the Soup Creamy Without Curdling the Dairy?
Adding cream in soups can be tricky because it might curdle if boiled. Here’s how to keep it smooth and creamy every time:
- After your potatoes are tender, lower the heat to low before adding cream and cheese.
- Add cheese gradually, stirring gently so it melts evenly without clumping.
- Do not bring the soup back to a boil after dairy is added; just warm it gently.
- If you want to stabilize the cream further, temper it by mixing a little hot broth into the cream before adding it to the pot.
Following these steps helps keep your soup silky and delicious!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I find it easiest to cook everything in one pot, making cleanup simpler and blending flavors well.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring without scratching the pan and for scraping the flavorful bits off the bottom.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy when adding ingredients like spices and cream.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, potatoes, and corned beef.
- Soup ladle – ideal for serving the soup once it’s ready, ensuring neat, full bowls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Meat swaps: Use cooked turkey or roast beef instead of corned beef for a different twist on flavor.
- Cheese options: Try Gruyère or Jarlsberg for a nuttier, richer taste instead of Swiss.
- Veggie add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms or chopped celery for extra texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for some extra warmth.
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups corned beef, diced or shredded
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, so plan on a total of about 35 minutes before you can enjoy this creamy, comforting soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing.
2. Add Corned Beef and Other Ingredients
Next, toss in the diced corned beef and cook it just until warmed through. Then add the diced potatoes, chopped sauerkraut, beef broth, caraway seeds (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Finish with Cream and Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, turn the heat down low. Stir in the heavy cream along with 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Remember not to let the soup boil after adding the cream so it doesn’t curdle. Taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if you like.
4. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Swiss cheese on top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, ideally with some rye bread or your favorite crisp bread to dip and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Corned Beef for This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the corned beef in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps it heat evenly and keeps the texture tender in the soup.
Can I Make Creamy Reuben Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen overnight. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it slowly to avoid curdling the cream, and stir gently for a smooth texture.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup?
Rye bread is a classic pairing and perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. You can also try crisp crackers or a simple side salad to round out the meal.
