If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, you’re going to love this creamy Reuben soup recipe! The first time I made it, I was blown away by how it transformed all the savory, tangy, cheesy flavors of the traditional sandwich into a comforting bowl of soup.

Since then, it’s been a hit with my family and friends, so I couldn’t wait to share it with you. From preparation and cooking times to essential kitchen tools, tips, and serving ideas, I’ll be walking you through every detail to make this recipe a success.

What Makes a Creamy Reuben Soup Special?

This soup takes the beloved flavors of a deli-favorite sandwich and reimagines them. Picture tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and an irresistible creamy broth tying it all together. And the best part? It has all the complexity of a gourmet dish while being super easy to pull together in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or impress guests at your next gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

When you’re busy, knowing how long a recipe takes can make all the difference. Here’s what to expect:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

That’s right, in under an hour, you can have a hearty, restaurant-quality dish on the table without breaking a sweat! This short yet fulfilling cooking session gives you time to enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Cooking

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s cover the tools you’ll need to make cooking this soup smooth and seamless:

Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and prevents burning. You’ll be cooking everything in one pot, saving time and minimizing dishes.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: This will help you stir the soup gently, especially when incorporating ingredients like cheese or cream.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: A good-quality knife is essential for slicing your corned beef and chopping any additional vegetables or herbs.
Ladle for Serving: This makes it easier to transfer your creamy soup from the pot to bowls without any mess.
Cheese Grater: For freshly shredded Swiss cheese, which melts better and adds an authentic flavor.

Having these tools ready ensures you glide through the cooking process smoothly and efficiently.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delightful soup:

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken or beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, diced
1 cup sauerkraut, drained
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for an extra touch of rye flavor)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Each ingredient was chosen to echo the traditional elements of a Reuben sandwich, ensuring every bite is a symphony of tanginess, creamy richness, and hearty satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Your Creamy Reuben Soup

Now that we’ve got everything we need, it’s time to start cooking!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting butter (or heating olive oil) in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. This provides a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Create a Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir everything together until the flour is fully absorbed, creating a thick paste. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Gradually Add Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken or beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Continue stirring and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Watch as the soup base begins to thicken.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. The soup will take on a silky, luxurious texture at this point.

Step 5: Add Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Now it’s time for the stars of the show. Add the diced corned beef and drained sauerkraut. Stir them in and allow the flavors to meld together. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Introduce Swiss Cheese and Seasonings

Slowly stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, a little at a time, until it melts into the soup. Add Dijon mustard, caraway seeds (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes so all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and ladle your creamy Reuben soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Reuben Soup

Select Quality Corned Beef: Whether you’re using leftover corned beef or deli-bought, make sure it’s tender and well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
Balance the Tanginess: Sauerkraut provides the signature tang, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to the soup.
Use Freshly Shredded Swiss Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives to prevent clumping, which can impact how smoothly it melts.
Rye Croutons for Crunch: For an authentic touch, toast some rye bread cubes in butter to use as croutons. They add a delightful crunch to balance the creamy soup.

Serving Options and Pairings

This soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Here are a few ways you can serve it:

Rye Bread on the Side: A slice of warm rye bread with butter enhances the Reuben flavor profile and makes for a hearty meal.
Pickles or Slaw: Add a side of dill pickles or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
Salad for a Lighter Option: Pair the soup with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben-Inspired Recipe?

I can’t get enough of how this soup takes the nostalgic flavors of the classic sandwich and makes it a cozy, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for cold winter nights, casual get-togethers, or just when you’re craving something indulgent and comforting. The creamy broth, combined with savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut, ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor.

By the end of this, you’ll not only have a new favorite recipe under your belt but also the confidence to tweak and customize it however you like. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this creamy Reuben soup is sure to impress. Now, it’s your turn to give it a try! Trust me, once you do, it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.