The Story Behind Reuben Soup
Reuben sandwiches are a timeless favorite, but turning all those flavors into a comforting, creamy soup is pure magic. I love how this recipe captures the tang of sauerkraut, the savory richness of corned beef, and the nutty smoothness of Swiss cheese in a warm, bowl-ready form. The first time I made this, the aroma of onions, garlic, and caraway seeds filled the kitchen—it immediately transported me to a cozy deli on a chilly afternoon. Reuben Soup is the kind of dish that feels indulgent, yet surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hearty Soup
The beauty of this soup is in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to serve about four generous bowls:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient contributes to the rich, layered flavor that makes this soup so irresistible.
Preparing the Base – Sautéing Aromatics
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and fragrant. I love this step—the smell is inviting, almost like a hug in the kitchen. Sautéing the aromatics first ensures the soup has a flavorful foundation before any other ingredients are added.
Building the Soup – Adding Broth, Meat, and Veggies
Once the aromatics are ready, pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the diced potatoes, sauerkraut, corned beef, caraway seeds, and thyme. The potatoes will soften and absorb the flavors, while the corned beef adds a hearty, savory depth. The sauerkraut provides that signature tang that makes a Reuben distinct. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, keeping an eye on the consistency—it should be thick enough to coat a spoon but not too heavy.
Creating the Creamy Finish
Lower the heat to a gentle setting, then stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese. The cheese melts into the soup, giving it a silky, indulgent texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You’ll notice how the flavors balance perfectly—the cream softens the tang of the sauerkraut, while the corned beef and caraway seeds add warmth and depth.
Serving and Garnishing
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. I love the pop of green against the creamy, golden soup—it adds freshness and a subtle color contrast. This soup is perfect with a slice of crusty rye or toasted bread on the side, making it a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Creative Twists for Your Reuben Soup
For a slightly smoky version, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke or swap regular beef broth for a smoked beef stock. Some people like a bit more tang, so a splash of pickle juice stirred in at the end can brighten the flavor. You can also top individual bowls with extra Swiss cheese and broil for a few minutes to create a melted, golden crust for added indulgence.
Variations to Try
If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the cheese slightly. You could also make a vegetarian version by replacing the corned beef with smoked mushrooms and using vegetable broth. Adding extra vegetables like leeks or cabbage can bulk it up and create a more rustic, hearty texture.
Nutrition Snapshot
Reuben Soup is hearty and satisfying, rich in protein from the corned beef and cheese, and provides a comforting dose of carbohydrates from the potatoes. The tangy sauerkraut adds probiotics and a unique flavor. While indulgent, it’s a bowl that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Handy Tips and FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! The flavors actually deepen if you make it a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I use leftover corned beef? Absolutely, diced leftover corned beef works perfectly.
What if I want a thicker soup? Mash a few of the potatoes while cooking or add a slurry of flour and water to thicken.
Can I freeze Reuben Soup? Yes, but for best texture, add the cream and cheese after thawing.
How do I make it extra cheesy? Stir in extra Swiss cheese just before serving, or top bowls with a sprinkle and briefly broil.
Reuben Soup is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic sandwich. Creamy, tangy, and deeply savory, it’s a recipe that brings warmth to any meal and always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
