Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this soup. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Reuben-Inspired Flavors : All the classic elements—corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss, and Thousand Island—in one bowl.
- Creamy and Comforting : A rich, velvety base that’s perfect for chilly nights.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable : Adjust toppings, spice, or ingredients to suit your taste.
- Great for Leftovers : Transform leftover corned beef into a brand-new meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this soup lies in its savory, tangy balance . Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion , diced
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 cups cooked corned beef , shredded or diced
- 1 ½ cups sauerkraut , rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for rye bread flavor)
- Salt and pepper , to taste
For Topping:
- Thousand Island dressing
- Rye croutons (or crushed rye chips)
- Additional sauerkraut
- Chopped dill or parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this creamy, nostalgic soup? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft (3–4 minutes).
Step 2: Make the Roux
- Stir in flour and caraway seeds. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Liquids
- Gradually pour in broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate Key Ingredients
- Add corned beef and sauerkraut. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to meld flavors.
- Stir in Swiss cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle into bowls. Top with Thousand Island dressing, rye croutons, extra sauerkraut, and herbs.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this soup lies in its homage to the Reuben sandwich . The creamy broth mimics the dressing’s richness, while the corned beef and sauerkraut deliver that signature salty-tangy punch. Caraway seeds add a nod to rye bread, and the Swiss cheese ensures a melty, indulgent finish. It’s comfort food reimagined—warm, hearty, and ready in minutes.
