Get ready for a deli-inspired hug in a bowl with this Creamy Reuben Soup! Imagine everything you love about a classic Reuben sandwich—rich corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and plenty of rye flavor—all cozied up together in a luscious, creamy broth. It’s hearty, packed with crave-worthy flavor, and totally transforms those iconic Reuben ingredients into comfort food magic you can serve with a spoon. If you’re searching for an irresistible twist on a lunchtime legend, this is it!

Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every spoonful of this soup is a celebration of simple ingredients, each playing a starring role. From the beefy broth to the creamy blend of milk and cheese, every element brings the flavors, textures, and colors of an authentic Reuben straight to your table—no sandwich press required!

Unsalted butter: Gives depth and a silky base for sautéing the onion and garlic.
Onion: Sweet and savory notes to round out the soup’s flavor.
Garlic: Adds just the right touch of aromatic warmth.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the broth for that dreamy, creamy texture.
Beef broth: Delivers rich, meaty undertones that are essential for an authentic deli vibe.
Whole milk: Balances creaminess without being too heavy.
Heavy cream: Makes every bite extra luscious and indulgent.
Dijon mustard: Brightens the soup with subtle tang and depth.
Caraway seeds (optional): That classic rye bread flavor in every bowl—totally transportive!
Chopped corned beef: The hearty, salty backbone of Creamy Reuben Soup.
Sauerkraut, drained and chopped: Brings zesty brightness and a little crunch.
Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts into the soup for that irresistible gooey finish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the rich flavors.
Rye croutons or rye bread for serving: The finishing touch for maximum Reuben satisfaction.

How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Start by melting your butter in a large pot over medium heat, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Let the onion cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s wonderfully fragrant and softened, stirring now and then to keep things golden, not burnt. Add the garlic and let it sizzle for just a minute—this quick step blooms a mouthwatering aroma that’s the foundation of our Creamy Reuben Soup.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your softened veggies and whisk, whisk, whisk! Keep the mixture moving for one or two minutes until the flour blends into a smooth paste. This simple roux is what gives the soup its satiny thickness—no watery broths here!

Step 3: Add Liquids

With your roux ready, gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Next, add the milk followed by the heavy cream, all while stirring gently. Let the mixture come to a simmer over medium heat, and in about 5 to 7 minutes, you’ll see it thicken into a gorgeously creamy soup base.

Step 4: Season and Add Flavor

Stir in your spoonful of Dijon mustard and sprinkle those caraway seeds if you’re a fan of that classic Reuben flavor (totally optional, but highly recommended!). The mustard adds an irresistible tang that brings the whole soup together, and the caraway seeds will remind you of the best deli rye, bite after bite.

Step 5: Add Corned Beef and Sauerkraut

Now comes the star power! Add the chopped corned beef and the drained, chopped sauerkraut right into the pot. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes, so all those fantastic flavors can mingle and get cozy together.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Finish

Turn the heat down to low and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it completely melts into a rich, velvety finish. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—remember, corned beef and cheese add saltiness, so sample before adding extra!

How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup

Garnishes

The best part about serving Creamy Reuben Soup is piling on the toppers! Scatter crunchy rye croutons or a handful of extra shredded Swiss over each steaming bowl. A dusting of chopped fresh parsley or a swirl of mustard gives an extra pop of color and zing; feel free to make it your own.

Side Dishes

While this soup is hearty enough to satisfy on its own, try pairing it with dill pickles, a crisp green salad, or extra slices of toasted rye bread slathered with a bit of butter. These classic deli sides round out the meal and make every slurp taste like a visit to your favorite sandwich shop.

Creative Ways to Present

Level up your presentation by serving Creamy Reuben Soup in mini bread bowls made from hollowed-out rye rolls, or offer shooter-sized portions at your next party for a fun appetizer twist. Swirl in a touch of Thousand Island dressing or serve with a side of pickled veggies for a modern, playful touch on a timeless classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Reuben Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to store any rye croutons or bread separately to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, this soup can be frozen—simply ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture!

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low, stirring often for a smooth, creamy finish. If it seems a bit too thick after chilling, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving big portions, as dairy-based soups tend to separate or scorch quickly.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Reuben Soup with leftover corned beef?

Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic way to use up corned beef from holidays like St. Patrick’s Day. Just chop it up and add it as directed for a speedy and delicious leftover transformation.

How can I make Creamy Reuben Soup lighter?

Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, or use entirely whole milk for a less rich but still delicious soup. You can also cut back slightly on the cheese, but don’t skip it entirely—that’s where the signature Reuben flavor shines!

Is Creamy Reuben Soup gluten-free?

As written, the soup uses all-purpose flour and rye bread, both of which contain gluten. However, you can replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and serve with gluten-free bread or skip the croutons for a gluten-friendly version.

Can I blend the soup for a creamier texture?

Definitely! If you love a super smooth soup, blend everything except the corned beef and sauerkraut until velvety, then add them in at the end for a mix of creamy and chunky.

Does this soup taste like a Reuben sandwich?

Yes, in the best way! All the signature flavors are here—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and even a hint of rye—coming together in a spoonable, soul-warming version of the sandwich we all adore.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving classic deli flavors and comfort food all in one, Creamy Reuben Soup is your new go-to. There’s nothing like that first spoonful of cheesy, tangy, savory goodness—so grab your ingredients and bring the magic of a Reuben right to your kitchen table!