A comforting bowl of Reuben Soup is perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. This creamy dish combines the rich flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, making it a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Easy to prepare, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends, whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Base
- For the Main Filling
- For Flavoring
- For Creaminess
- For Garnish
- How to Make Reuben Soup
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Step 2: Simmer the Base
- Step 3: Incorporate Creaminess
- Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
- Step 5: Serve with Garnish
- How to Serve Reuben Soup
- Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Add a Side Salad
- Offer Pickles on the Side
- Serve in Bread Bowls
- How to Perfect Reuben Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Reuben Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Reuben Soup
- Reheating Reuben Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Reuben Soup?
- Can I make Reuben Soup vegetarian?
- How spicy is Reuben Soup?
- What should I serve with my Reuben Soup?
- Can I customize my Reuben Soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Delight: The heavy cream and Swiss cheese create a velvety texture that enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Flavorful Fusion: Combining robust ingredients like corned beef and sauerkraut delivers a unique taste that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes of total time, you can enjoy this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread, this soup fits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The warm and inviting flavors make it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to combine all ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring hot liquids without scratching your cookware, helping to blend flavors seamlessly.

Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
For the Main Filling
- 1 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
- 1 cup diced potatoes
For Flavoring
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Reuben Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Simmer the Base
Add the beef broth to the pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the diced potatoes, sauerkraut, corned beef, caraway seeds, and thyme. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Incorporate Creaminess
Lower the heat to a gentle setting. Stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is rich and creamy.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve with Garnish
Serve the soup in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Reuben Soup
Serving Reuben Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Here are some creative ways to serve this creamy delight.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Serve with a slice of crusty sourdough or rye bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple touch brightens the dish.
Add a Side Salad
- A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with Reuben Soup, balancing its richness and enhancing your meal.
Offer Pickles on the Side
- Include dill pickles or pickled vegetables alongside the soup. Their tanginess complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- For a fun twist, serve Reuben Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It adds an exciting presentation and keeps the soup warm longer.
How to Perfect Reuben Soup
Creating the perfect Reuben Soup involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh onions, garlic, and herbs. This enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
Adjust Cream Levels: If you prefer a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a similar creaminess with fewer calories.
Mind Your Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper before serving. This ensures balanced flavors throughout.
Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding the cream and cheese. This helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Reuben Soup
Complementing your Reuben Soup with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing that balances the richness of the soup.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while providing a delicious contrast in texture.
Potato Chips: Serve crispy potato chips for added crunch. They’re perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is an excellent choice; its buttery flavor complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a hearty side that can round out your meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Reuben Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
Bold ingredient preparation: Not chopping your vegetables evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent texture and flavor.
Bold not using enough seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup can result in a bland taste. Always taste the soup before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Bold overheating cream: Adding cream at too high a temperature can cause it to curdle. Lower the heat before incorporating cream and cheese for a smooth finish.
Bold skipping the simmering step: Rushing through the simmering process may leave your potatoes undercooked. Allow the soup to gently simmer until all ingredients are tender.
Bold ignoring garnishes: Neglecting to add fresh parsley or other garnishes takes away from both flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds brightness and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Reuben Soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Reuben Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave space for expansion.
Reheating Reuben Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Reuben Soup:
What is Reuben Soup?
Reuben Soup is a creamy dish inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring ingredients like corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
Can I make Reuben Soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute corned beef with mushrooms or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How spicy is Reuben Soup?
Reuben Soup is typically mild but can be adjusted with spices like cayenne or pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
What should I serve with my Reuben Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Can I customize my Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies or adjust the cheese based on your preference. Experimenting will make it uniquely yours!
Final Thoughts
Reuben Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting the cheese types. Give it a try, and enjoy this deliciously creamy dish!
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Reuben Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Reuben Soup, a creamy twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. This delightful dish features tender chunks of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and velvety Swiss cheese simmered in a rich beef broth. Perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings, this soup is quick to prepare and will impress your family and friends alike. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, this Reuben Soup is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 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 for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until soft (3-4 minutes).
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the diced potatoes, sauerkraut, corned beef, caraway seeds, and thyme. Cook until the potatoes are tender (15-20 minutes).
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg





