Reuben Soup is a cozy twist on the classic sandwich, packed with flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and rich cheese. It’s creamy and hearty, making it a perfect comfort food!
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t help but smile. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat that’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is essential for sautéing the onions. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil work well too.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and flavor. For those who prefer milder flavors, you can use shallots or even green onions instead.
Sauerkraut: This tangy fermented cabbage is key to the soup’s flavor. If you don’t have sauerkraut, try using shredded cabbage with a splash of vinegar for a similar taste.
Corned Beef: Cooked corned beef gives the dish its traditional Reuben flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use tempeh or mushrooms, though it won’t be the same.
Swiss Cheese: Shredded Swiss cheese is great for creaminess. If Swiss is hard to find, you can use Gruyère or even mozzarella for a different twist.
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy and Cheesy?
To achieve that luscious creaminess in your Reuben Soup, there are some key steps to follow. First, you want to melt the Swiss cheese gently into the soup, which helps in creating a smooth texture.
- After adding the corned beef and letting it heat through, downshift the heat to low before adding the cheese.
- Add the heavy cream gradually while stirring continuously to combine all the flavors.
- Take your time here, as this prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures a nice, creamy consistency.
Trust me, this extra step makes a big difference in texture and flavor. Your soup will be a comforting, creamy delight that everyone will love!
How to Make Delicious Reuben Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, diced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish
- Rye bread or toasted bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Reuben Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook, making it ready to enjoy in about 35 minutes total. It’s a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Sauerkraut:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped sauerkraut and optional caraway seeds. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle.
3. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it gently simmer for about 10 minutes; this really helps to develop the taste.
4. Add Corned Beef:
Add the diced corned beef to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, just to heat it through. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing by now!
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Next, stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Keep stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is deliciously creamy.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Then, ladle it into bowls and top with additional Swiss cheese and chopped green onions or chives for a little pop of color.
7. Enjoy:
Serve the soup immediately with some toasted rye or crusty bread on the side. Dig in and enjoy all the comforting, tangy, and cheesy flavors that remind you of a classic Reuben sandwich!
Can I Use Store-Bought Sauerkraut for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought sauerkraut works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and chop it before adding it to the soup for the best texture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Corned Beef?
If you’re looking for a substitute, shredded turkey or cooked brisket can work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using diced mushrooms or tempeh, though it will change the flavor profile a bit.
How Can I Make This Soup Lower in Calories?
To lighten up the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt. Reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat cheese is another way to cut calories without sacrificing taste.
Can I Freeze Leftover Reuben Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.
