Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches, you’re going to fall in love with this creamy Reuben soup. Picture this: all the rich, savory flavors of a classic Reuben—tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey melted Swiss cheese, and that perfectly balanced touch of thousand island dressing—but in soup form. Trust me, it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds, and it’s ridiculously easy to make!
This soup is so warm and comforting, it’ll make your heart do a happy dance with every spoonful. Whether it’s chilly outside, you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, or you just want to treat yourself to something hearty and satisfying, this creamy Reuben soup is the one.
You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to pull this off. In fact, if you’re someone who loves the idea of throwing together a super tasty meal with minimal effort—this one’s for you. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Easy Creamy Reuben Soup
This soup isn’t just about the flavors—it’s about the experience. Here’s why it’s so special:
Versatile
This soup is the perfect go-to for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends, it’ll definitely hit the spot. Plus, you can make it as an easy dinner or a fun, unique appetizer for your next gathering. Guests will be raving, and you’ll be the hero of the kitchen.
Budget-Friendly
Let’s be real—life can be expensive, and some recipes require a ton of fancy ingredients. But not this one! You likely already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen. This dish is proof that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy something delicious and comforting.
Quick and Easy
Seriously, this recipe is so simple. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s beginner-friendly. You won’t find any complicated steps here—just some chopping, stirring, and simmering. It’s the kind of recipe that allows you to unwind while you cook, not stress out.
Customizable
Feel free to get creative! You can add extra spices, switch up the cheese, or even go all-in on the toppings. Want a little heat? A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will give you just the right kick. Make it your own, and trust me, it’ll be perfect.
Crowd-Pleasing
Reuben lovers, unite! Whether you’re serving this soup to kids, adults, or anyone in between, it’s a guaranteed hit. The balance of flavors is just right, and the creamy texture will make everyone come back for more.

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Ingredients
Here’s the magic behind this creamy Reuben soup. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a bowl of comfort in no time. Let’s break it down:
Corned Beef:
This is the star of the show! It’s tender, savory, and full of flavor. Whether you use leftovers or fresh corned beef, you’re in for a treat.
Sauerkraut:
This tangy ingredient adds that classic Reuben punch. The acidity and crunch bring a perfect contrast to the creamy base.
Swiss Cheese:
Melty, gooey, and rich, Swiss cheese will make this soup feel indulgent while staying light and flavorful.
Thousand Island Dressing:
The creamy, slightly sweet sauce brings it all together. You’ll want to stir in a generous amount to balance the tangy flavors.
Heavy Cream:
This is where the magic happens. The heavy cream makes the soup ultra-smooth, rich, and comforting. It’s what turns this into the creamy delight that everyone will love.
Broth:
Chicken or beef broth will help create a smooth, flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together. It’s the canvas for all the magic to happen.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Prepare Your Cooking Equipment
Start by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. It’s important to get your pot ready for the ingredients so they’ll cook evenly.
2. Cook the Corned Beef
Add your corned beef to the pot and cook it for a few minutes until it’s heated through and slightly crispy. This will intensify the flavor and give it that extra bit of texture.
3. Add the Broth and Sauerkraut
Pour in your broth and stir in the sauerkraut. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together. You’ll smell that wonderful Reuben aroma filling your kitchen!
4. Stir in the Cream and Thousand Island Dressing
Now, pour in the heavy cream and add the thousand island dressing. Stir until everything is beautifully blended together. This is when it gets extra creamy—you can already taste it, right?
5. Melt in the Swiss Cheese
Toss in the Swiss cheese and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated. Watch it become wonderfully cheesy and rich!
6. Let It Simmer
Let the soup simmer on low for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to blend and deepen.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once your soup is thick, creamy, and oh-so-delicious, serve it warm. I love topping it with a few extra shreds of Swiss cheese or even some croutons for a little crunch.
How to Serve Easy Creamy Reuben Soup
Pair this creamy soup with a few tasty sides, and you’ve got a complete meal. Here are some ideas:
Fresh Salads
A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the soup and offer a refreshing balance.
Crusty Bread
Serve with some crusty, buttery bread for dipping. I recommend garlic bread or a simple baguette. It’s a perfect match!
Creamy Accompaniments
For an extra layer of creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or even some extra thousand island dressing on top. Pure comfort.
Roasted Veggies
Roasted carrots, zucchini, or even some roasted potatoes would be the perfect veggie side to pair with this indulgent soup.
As a Standalone
If you’re craving something hearty, enjoy this soup all on its own! Just top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead
Chop your corned beef and sauerkraut the night before to save time. You can even store the soup in the fridge for an easy meal the next day.
Spice It Up
Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat. This soup can take on a nice spicy twist if you’re into that!
Dietary Adjustments
You can swap the heavy cream with a dairy-free version if you prefer. Or, for a lower-calorie option, try using half-and-half.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Double the Batch
Make a double batch! This soup freezes really well, so you can have a comforting meal ready to go when you need it.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute corned beef with something else?
A1: Yes! You could use pastrami or even cooked chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the soup, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth to bring it back to the right consistency.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! Just make sure you have a larger pot to accommodate the extra volume.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
A7: You can easily make this gluten-free by using gluten-free bread or skipping it altogether!
Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: A simple green salad, roasted veggies, or crispy fries all make great companions for this rich soup.
Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use low-fat cream or skip the cheese for a lighter version. You can also add more veggies to boost the nutritional value.
Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A large, heavy-bottomed pot works best to ensure even cooking. It’ll help prevent any burning and keep things nice and smooth.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new favorite creamy Reuben soup that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying. This one’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun dish to serve to friends. Enjoy, and don’t forget to tell me how it turned out—trust me, you’re going to love this one!
PrintEasy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
This Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is a comforting twist on the classic Reuben sandwich! With savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a creamy broth, it’s a hearty soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. Top it off with crispy rye bread croutons for that signature Reuben flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for an authentic Reuben flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rye bread croutons (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. -
Make the Base:
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. -
Add the Creamy Elements:
Lower the heat and stir in the half-and-half, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds (if using). Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. -
Incorporate the Reuben Essentials:
Add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, and shredded Swiss cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy rye bread croutons for that classic Reuben touch. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use store-bought rye bread or homemade rye bread for the croutons.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the rye bread before cutting it into croutons.
- Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard according to your taste preferences for tanginess.
- If you don’t have caraway seeds, you can skip them or use a small amount of fennel seeds for a similar flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg