Easy Reuben Soup Recipe: Comforting Flavors in a Bowl
There’s nothing quite like a warm and creamy bowl of Reuben soup to satisfy your comfort food cravings. If you love the classic Reuben sandwich, you’ll adore this easy-to-make soup that brings all those bold, tangy, and cheesy flavors into one hearty dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you’re short on time but not on appetite. Serve it with rye bread on the side for the ultimate dipping experience.
The creamy half and half, savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese create a flavor-packed bowl that you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re a soup enthusiast or just someone who appreciates the nostalgic taste of a deli favorite, this recipe is sure to become one of your new staples.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A delicious combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Texture: Velvety soup with chewy bites of corned beef and crunchy sauerkraut.
- Aroma: The unmistakable scent of melted Swiss cheese, Worcestershire, and caraway seeds.
- Visual Appeal: A rich, golden broth with pops of shredded Swiss cheese and vibrant greens from garnishes.
- Skill Level Needed: Perfect for beginners; no advanced culinary techniques required.
- Special Equipment: Just a large pot and basic kitchen tools make this soup easy to prepare.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This soup is straightforward, with minimal prep work and simple cooking steps.
- Category: This dish falls under comfort foods and soups, making it perfect for cozy meals.
- Cuisine: While inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, the soup has a modern American twist.
- Cost: Affordable ingredients like sauerkraut and corned beef keep this recipe budget-friendly.
- Season: Best enjoyed during the winter and fall, but equally delightful any time of year.
- Occasion: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Reuben soup brings the iconic flavors of the beloved deli sandwich to a spoon-worthy format that’s comforting and easy to prepare. The creamy base pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut, while the corned beef adds satisfying texture and protein. With its quick cook time, this is the ideal dinner for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and fulfilling. Plus, the use of affordable ingredients makes it a wallet-friendly option without sacrificing quality or flavor. With each bite, you’ll relish the nostalgic taste of your favorite classic, now in soup form.
The Recipe
Easy Reuben Soup Recipe
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese shredder
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- 12 ounces corned beef, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Rye bread slices, for serving
Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add the half and half, corned beef, sauerkraut, Worcestershire sauce, caraway seeds, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup should thicken slightly as it heats.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring gently until it’s completely melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional pepper if necessary.
- Serve the soup hot with rye bread slices on the side for dipping.
Recipe Notes
- For extra tang, feel free to add a dollop of Dijon mustard or some pickle juice.
- If you don’t have corned beef on hand, deli-style pastrami works as a great substitute.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and serving with gluten-free bread.
Troubleshooting Guide
- If your soup is too thick, thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth.
- Sauerkraut too tangy? Rinse it well before adding to balance the acidity.
- Cheese not melting? Ensure the heat is low to prevent curdling.
- Soup tasting bland? Adjust with salt and Worcestershire sauce to enhance flavor.
Additional Resources
- Explore Other Comfort Soup Recipes
- How to Make Restaurant-Quality Soup at Home
- All About Sauerkraut: Tips and Tricks
Join the Conversation
We’d love to see how your Reuben soup turned out! Share your photos on social media using #ReubenSoup and tag us. Whether you stuck to the recipe or added your own flair, we can’t wait to hear about your experience. Leave a comment below with your favorite tips, tweaks, or pairing suggestions!