Creamy Reuben Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy Reuben Soup, a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich! This rich, creamy soup brings together all the flavors of the traditional sandwich — corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard — in a cozy, hearty bowl. Topped with toasted rye bread, it’s a perfect dish for a cold day or any time you’re craving a unique, indulgent meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Comforting and Hearty: Packed with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, this soup is the ultimate comfort food.
2. Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes of total time, this recipe is fast and simple to prepare.
3. Classic Flavor with a Twist: If you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches, this soup will quickly become one of your favorites!
4. Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy the warmth of this soup on a chilly day, or serve it as a unique dish for any occasion.
5. Kid-friendly: The creamy base and mild flavors make it an easy sell for younger diners as well.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
• 1 cup corned beef, chopped
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Rye bread, toasted and chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and lightly golden.
2. Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring that the mixture stays smooth and combined.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the sauerkraut, corned beef, Swiss cheese, half-and-half, and Dijon mustard. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
4. Season the Soup: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preferences.
5. Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is creamy and heated through.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with toasted rye bread pieces, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this creamy Reuben soup!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Tips for Success:

• Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days, and the flavors can even improve overnight!
• For extra creaminess: If you’d like a thicker soup, you can add more half-and-half or even a splash of heavy cream.
• Customize the toppings: For added flavor, you can sprinkle additional Swiss cheese on top, or serve with extra Dijon mustard or pickles on the side.
• Use leftover corned beef: If you have leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day, this soup is a fantastic way to repurpose it.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the corned beef with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this creamy Reuben soup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a little extra heat.
• Rye Croutons: Instead of simply toasting rye bread, cube it and make croutons to add a crunchy topping.

How to Serve:

• With a Side Salad: Serve this soup with a simple green salad or a side of pickles to balance the richness.
• As a Main Dish: The creamy, hearty nature of this soup makes it filling enough to be a main course on its own.
• Perfect Pairings: This soup pairs wonderfully with a light beer or a glass of white wine like a crisp Chardonnay.

Make Ahead and Storage:

• Storing Leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a little extra half-and-half if needed.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes! You can use non-dairy substitutes such as almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version, or beef broth for a richer flavor that complements the corned beef.
3. Can I use pre-packaged corned beef?
   Yes! Pre-packaged, deli-sliced corned beef is a great shortcut to save time.
4. Can I add more veggies?
   Absolutely! You could add some carrots, celery, or even potatoes for more texture and flavor.

Conclusion:

Creamy Reuben Soup is the perfect comfort food for any time of year, bringing the flavors of the beloved Reuben sandwich into a warm, creamy bowl. It’s easy to make, deliciously hearty, and perfect for cozy nights at home or impressing guests at a dinner party. Whether you’re a fan of the classic sandwich or just looking for a unique soup to try, this recipe is a must-try for your culinary repertoire.

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