Name: Cozy Up with Creamy Reuben Soup That Warms the Soul
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer taste); 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (diced); 1 cup sauerkraut (rinsed if milder taste desired); 1 cup corned beef (chopped; pastrami can be used); 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional but recommended); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or three times the amount of fresh thyme); 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version); 1 cup Swiss cheese (shredded; Gruyère or cheddar can be alternatives); to taste salt; to taste pepper; for garnish fresh parsley (or chives)

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A waft of roasted garlic and sizzling onions filled the air as I stirred the pot. It was one of those days where nothing felt more comforting than a bowl of homemade soup. Enter this Creamy Gluten-Free Reuben Soup—a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, brought to life in a rich, velvety broth. With the perfect balance of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, this recipe promises a hearty meal in just 40 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; whether you want to customize the flavors or make a vegetarian version, this soup has you covered. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Reuben Soup So Beloved?

Comforting Warmth: This recipe brings the cozy essence of comfort food right to your table, perfect for chilly evenings.

Family-Friendly & Quick: With just 40 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy way to satisfy hungry bellies after a long day.

Rich & Flavorful: Each spoonful bursts with rich corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, combining to create a taste sensation!

Customization Options: Not in the mood for beef? Swap in pastrami or go vegetarian with our Street Corn Soup for a lighter yet equally delightful meal.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve this Reuben Soup at gatherings, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

This olive oil-infused dish is not just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll leave you and your guests craving more!

Reuben Soup Ingredients

• Get ready to satisfy your cravings!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; substitute with butter for a richer taste.
Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion works best, but shallots can be a pleasant alternative.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities; fresh garlic is preferred, though garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
Beef Broth – Acts as the hearty base for the soup; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian take.
Potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture; any waxy potato (like Yukon Gold) is suitable or you can skip for a lighter soup.

Key Flavor Components

Sauerkraut – Provides the tanginess pivotal to the Reuben character; rinse if you prefer a milder taste.
Corned Beef – The soul of the soup, enriching its flavor; pastrami can be used for a delightful twist.
Caraway Seeds – Offers a distinctive taste synonymous with Reuben; though optional, they’re recommended for authenticity.
Dried Thyme – Adds a lovely herbal note; fresh thyme is a great substitute (use three times the amount).

Creaminess Elements

Heavy Cream – Brings a decadent creaminess to the soup; can be replaced with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version.
Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding richness; Gruyère or cheddar can be delightful alternatives.

Final Touches

Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Fresh Parsley – For garnishing, adding a pop of color and freshness; chives are a lovely substitute.

Now you’re all set to whip up this comforting bowl of Reuben Soup that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Soup

Step 1: Warm the Base
In a large pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer for about 1 minute, then add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, stirring to combine with the sautéed onions and garlic. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats up, be sure to scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot, allowing the foundation for your Reuben Soup to develop rich flavors.

Step 3: Add Key Ingredients
Once simmering, add 2 diced Yukon Gold potatoes, 1 cup of rinsed sauerkraut, 1 cup of chopped corned beef, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, enhancing the comforting essence of the Reuben Soup.

Step 4: Create Creaminess
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become velvety and creamy, giving your Reuben Soup its rich and inviting texture.

Step 5: Final Adjustments
Taste the Reuben Soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Allow the soup to heat through for a couple more minutes, ensuring that it’s warm and comforting, ready to be ladled into bowls and served.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added freshness. Pair your cozy bowl of Reuben Soup with crusty bread or a light salad to complete the meal, ensuring a heartwarming dining experience for you and your loved ones.

How to Store and Freeze Reuben Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without cream and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Avoid separation by adding cream and cheese only when reheating.

Defrosting: To defrost, transfer the frozen soup to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a pot, adding the omitted cream and cheese once warmed through.

Portioning: Consider freezing in individual portions for quick, easy meals on busy days. Perfect for a comforting treat whenever you need it!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Reuben Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can chop your onions, mince garlic, and even dice the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (without the cream or cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring all those rich flavors meld beautifully. To finish, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove until warm, then stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese just before serving, allowing for that dreamy, creamy texture to shine. This method not only enhances the flavors but also keeps your Reuben Soup just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Creamy Gluten-Free Reuben Soup

Embrace the warmth of homemade dining as you pair this comforting bowl of goodness with delightful accompaniments.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it complements the creamy texture of the soup while adding a satisfying crunch.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad introduces bright flavors and textures, balancing the richness of the soup and enhancing your dining experience.
Garlic Breadsticks: Their buttery garlic aroma pairs beautifully, echoing the garlic notes in the soup while providing a satisfying chew.
Pickles or Dill Chips: The tanginess cuts through the richness, delivering that classic Reuben flavor profile in a delightful, crunchy form.
Potato Chips: For a playful crunch, serve with seasoned chips that echo the potato elements in the soup, adding dimension to each bite.
Apple Crisp: A sweet ending to your meal, the warm fruitiness complements the savory soup, turning your dinner into a cozy affair.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This effervescent drink offers a refreshing contrast to the creaminess, making it a delightful touch to your meal.

Reuben Soup Variations & Substitutions

Explore the delightful ways to customize your Reuben Soup for an even more personalized experience! The options are as comforting as the soup itself, inviting you to play with flavors and textures.

Pastrami Swap: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a smoky twist on your classic flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and omit the meat for a wholesome, meat-free version that’s just as satisfying.
Cheese Alternatives: Switch Swiss cheese for Gruyère or cheddar to explore new creamy dimensions in each spoonful.
Thickening Technique: To ramp up the creaminess, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that complements the tanginess of the sauerkraut beautifully.
Savory Herbs: Enhance the flavor profile by tossing in a bay leaf during simmering, just be sure to remove it before serving.
Creamy Light Option: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version that still maintains rich flavor.
Capitalize on Leftovers: Use leftover brisket or turkey instead of corned beef for a deliciously unique take, putting all those cozy holiday flavors to good use!

With these twists, your Reuben Soup will not only warm your soul but also bring joy to those lucky enough to share it with you! Don’t forget to check out our Street Corn Soup for another comforting option to liven up your weeknight dinner rotation.

Expert Tips for Reuben Soup

Simmering Time Matters: Allow the soup to simmer long enough to fully develop its flavors. Rushing this process can leave the flavors muted.
Custom Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of corned beef, pastrami makes for a flavorful alternative, or go vegetarian with a veggie broth base.
Cheese Melting Technique: Stir in Swiss cheese slowly to ensure a smooth, velvety finish. Adding it too quickly can lead to a clumpy texture in your Reuben Soup.
Creamy Consistency: For the best creaminess, consider adding heavy cream at the end of cooking. If you want a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half.
Taste Test Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Fresh garnishes like parsley can uplift your dish significantly!

Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for Reuben Soup?
I recommend using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for Reuben Soup. They hold their shape well and add a creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become mushy.

How should I store leftover Reuben Soup?
Store leftover Reuben Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, omit the heavy cream and cheese before freezing to prevent separation. Place the cooled soup in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently, stirring in the cream and cheese at the end.

What can I use if I’m allergic to dairy?
If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version of Reuben Soup, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use dairy-free cheese or simply forgo the cheese entirely—it will still be delicious and comforting without it!

How do I know if my sauerkraut is still good to use?
Check for dark spots or an off smell in your sauerkraut. If it looks and smells okay, it’s likely fine to use. If it’s been refrigerated properly and within its expiration date, it should still be safe. Give it a quick rinse if you prefer to reduce some of the tanginess!

What if the Reuben Soup turns out too thick?
If your Reuben Soup is too thick for your liking, slowly stir in a bit of additional beef or vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. I recommend adding just a quarter cup at a time and mixing well to make sure everything blends smoothly. Enjoy your cozy soup!