Name: Creamy Reuben Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 pound corned beef, chopped; 1 cup sauerkraut, drained; 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese; 1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing; Salt and pepper to taste; Rye bread croutons for garnish; Chopped parsley for garnish

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There’s something comforting about a warm soup that wraps you in a cozy embrace, and this Creamy Reuben Soup does just that. As a twist on the beloved Reuben sandwich, this soup takes all the flavors you love and packs them into a bowl of creamy goodness. Imagining a brisk evening spent sharing hearty bowls with family makes this recipe even more special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, you’re bound to find joy in the delightful combination of flavors.

Reasons to Try It

You’ll adore this Creamy Reuben Soup for many reasons. First and foremost, it strikes a balance between indulgence and comfort—it’s rich and hearty yet easy and quick to prepare. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your usual dinner routine, this dish is perfect for you; it’s kid-approved, too! Moreover, it uses simple ingredients that are often staples in your pantry—making it budget-friendly. Just imagine cozying up to a bowl of this creamy soup while the air turns crisp outside; it’s like a hug in a mug!

"I never knew I needed Reuben soup in my life until I tried this recipe! It’s easy to make, and the flavors are just incredible!" – Happy Home Cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Crafting this Creamy Reuben Soup is straightforward and satisfying, even for novice chefs! We’ll start off by sautéing some aromatic ingredients—onion and garlic—then create a roux for thickening the soup. After that, you’ll gradually add the liquids and meats, letting everything simmer and meld together beautifully. The pièce de résistance? A generous helping of Swiss cheese that makes the soup irresistibly creamy! In just a few simple steps, you can serve a bowl of pure delight.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious pot of Creamy Reuben Soup:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 pound corned beef, chopped
1 cup sauerkraut, drained
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 cup Russian or Thousand Island dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
Rye bread croutons for garnish
Chopped parsley for garnish

Feel free to customize this recipe! For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream or substitute the corned beef with pastrami.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the Butter

In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.

3. Create the Roux

Stir in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Keep stirring and cook for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Whisk in the Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Add the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well until combined.

6. Integrate the Meats and Sauerkraut

Add the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut, stirring until everything is well combined.

7. Incorporate the Cheese and Dressing

Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, mixing until the cheese melts, and the soup becomes creamy.

8. Season and Simmer

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

9. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with rye bread croutons and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This Creamy Reuben Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serve it in quaint bowls, topped with crunchy rye bread croutons that add texture, and complemented by a side salad. For a truly indulgent experience, pair it with a half-sandwich made with fresh rye bread. Sipping on a chilled pickle brine or a light beer can further enhance your meal, bringing out the flavors beautifully.

How to Store & Freeze

If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm over low heat on the stove, stirring gently until heated through.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Give It Time: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you can. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully over time.
Cheese Matters: Use high-quality Swiss cheese for the best melting consistency and flavor.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning at each stage, particularly salt and pepper, to create a balanced soup tailored to your taste.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a hint of caraway seeds for that traditional rye flavor or sprinkle in some horseradish for an added kick. You can swap in different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist, or even make it vegetarian by using smoked tempeh instead of corned beef. The options are endless!

Common Questions

What is the prep time for Creamy Reuben Soup?

The prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, while cooking will take about 30 minutes depending on your stove settings.

Can I use leftover corned beef?

Absolutely! This is a great way to utilize leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or any other meal.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to cool it completely first, then store in airtight containers.

This delectable Creamy Reuben Soup recipe is not only satisfying but also an innovative way to enjoy classic flavors in a new form. Try it today, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen!