Cozy Winter Comfort: Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
A rich, velvety soup that transforms the iconic Reuben sandwich into a comforting, creamy, and tangy bowl. Made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a Thousand Island-inspired base — perfect for cozy winter nights or indulgent weeknight dinners.
Servings: 6 bowls
Calories: 420kcal
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- whisk
- wooden spoon
- ladle
- grater for cheese
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, cubed small
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups Swiss cheese or Gruyère, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and lightly rinsed
- 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard or Thousand Island-style dressing
- 1/4 tsp paprika or hot sauce (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Stir in the cubed corned beef and cook for 2–3 minutes to warm through and infuse flavor.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring a smooth consistency with no lumps. Bring to a simmer and allow to thicken slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add shredded Swiss cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Do not let the soup boil at this stage.
- Remove from heat. Gently fold in the sauerkraut, sour cream (or cream cheese), and optional hot sauce or paprika. Stir until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with rye bread croutons or a sprinkle of extra Swiss cheese on top.
Notes
Use quality corned beef: Deli or leftover corned beef gives the best flavor.
Cheese melting tip: Add cheese off the heat and in small portions to avoid clumping.
Sauerkraut balance: Lightly rinse before adding to keep its tang without overpowering the soup.
Serving idea: Top with rye bread croutons or a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing for the full Reuben experience.
Cheese melting tip: Add cheese off the heat and in small portions to avoid clumping.
Sauerkraut balance: Lightly rinse before adding to keep its tang without overpowering the soup.
Serving idea: Top with rye bread croutons or a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing for the full Reuben experience.