On a chilly evening, the smell of something warm bubbling on the stove can bring a comforting kind of serenity. This Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic is here to bring that cozy feeling right to your kitchen! With its savory flavors that evoke the classic Reuben sandwich, this dish is not only a delightful comfort food, but it’s also quick and adaptable, making it perfect for any home chef craving something satisfying. Whether you prefer chicken, turkey, or need a vegan option, I promise this soup will cater to all your taste buds. Plus, it’s an effortless way to elevate your dinner game on a busy weeknight. Curious how it all comes together? Let’s dive in and whip up a bowl of warmth!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Creamy Comfort: This soup combines all the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a velvety soup form, providing ultimate warmth.
Versatile Ingredients: With the flexibility of various proteins or vegan ingredients, it easily accommodates everyone at the table.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish saves you time while still delivering an impressive meal experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, serve it with crusty bread rolls or a simple side salad for a complete dining experience.
Leftover Delight: The flavors deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks, just like my Carrot Ginger Soup. Enjoy a cozy day with this comforting bowl!
Creamy Reuben Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the comforting flavors of this Creamy Reuben Soup with these simple yet essential ingredients.
For the Soup
- Chicken – Provides a savory base for the soup. Substitution: Swap for lean ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
- Onion – Adds depth of flavor. Note: Yellow or white onions work well.
- Carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture. Prep: Diced or chopped.
- Celery – Enhances the soup’s aroma and flavor. Prep: Chopped.
- Tomato Paste – Richens the broth. Note: Can substitute with equal parts tomato sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and tang. Note: Use vegan Worcestershire for a plant-based option.
- Dijon Mustard – Provides tanginess. Substitution: Yellow mustard can be used.
- Sauerkraut – For that signature Reuben flavor. Note: Rinse and drain if it’s too tangy for your taste.
- Beef Broth – The soup’s base. Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Agar-Agar Powder – Thickens the soup. Substitution: Cornstarch can work as an alternative thickener.
- Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess. Substitution: Use plant-based cream for a vegan version.
- Swiss Cheese – For a rich, melty topping. Substitution: Gruyere or provolone can be used for flavor variation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Reuben Soup: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate, leaving any drippings behind for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to soak up those delicious chicken drippings, building a savory base for your Creamy Reuben Soup.
Step 3: Build Flavor Base
Now, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Allow the mixture to cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step will deepen the flavors, creating a fragrant foundation for your soup that brings those classic Reuben tastes to life.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add in 1 cup of rinsed sauerkraut and 4 cups of beef broth. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the soup even more sumptuous.
Step 5: Thicken and Finish
After simmering, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder while stirring, and let the soup simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove the pot from heat, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese until smooth and creamy. Your Creamy Reuben Soup is becoming rich and luxurious!
Step 6: Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the warm Creamy Reuben Soup in bowls, garnishing with extra Swiss cheese on top, if desired, and accompany it with crusty bread rolls for a delightful meal experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Reuben Soup make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious! You can prepare the base of the soup—browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, bring the mixture back to a simmer before adding sauerkraut, broth, and thickening ingredients. To maintain quality, reheat gently to prevent separation of the cream. Once heated, stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese just before serving for that rich, creamy finish. Enjoy the convenience of a meal that’s delicious with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Reuben Soup
• Sauté Wisely: Make sure to sauté onions and vegetables until they’re softened to enhance the flavor depth of the Creamy Reuben Soup.
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for the full 15 minutes melds the flavors beautifully. Resist the urge to skip this crucial step!
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. This will make for a more enjoyable experience.
• Leftover Savory: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and know they’ll taste even better the next day!
• Vegan Options: Keep this soup accessible by swapping out meat and dairy for plant-based substitutes; it will retain that creamy richness everyone loves!
Creamy Reuben Soup: Tasty Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures in this delightful recipe to truly make it your own!
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for a different twist. Each option brings its own flavor, enhancing the classic vibes of this comfort soup.
- Vegan Delight: Use plant-based chicken and cream substitutes for a completely vegan version. You’ll still enjoy a rich and hearty dish that everyone can savor together.
- Cheesy Alternatives: Try Gruyere or provolone instead of Swiss cheese for a unique taste experience. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a delightful depth of flavor to your soup.
- Extra Flavor: Sprinkle in some caraway seeds for an authentic Reuben touch. This addition elevates the scrummy flavors, making each spoonful a little more special.
- Herbal Freshness: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley before serving. This brightens the dish, adding a burst of freshness that balances the creamy texture.
- Zesty Finish: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top just before serving can add a tangy contrast. It’s a luxurious way to elevate the soup’s comforting essence.
- Heat it Up: For spice lovers, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will give your soup a cozy kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Texture Twist: Blend a portion of the soup for a smooth, creamy feel, then mix in chunks of cooked potatoes or carrots for delightful texture and heartiness. Perfect for those who love a bit more substance in their meal!
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in with a steaming bowl or sharing a hearty meal with loved ones, these variations will surely keep excitement alive around the dinner table. Check out how adaptable my Burrata Beet Pasta or French Onion Pasta can be as well!
What to Serve with Creamy Reuben Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to set the stage for a cozy meal, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience beautifully.
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Crusty Bread Rolls: These are perfect for dunking into the creamy goodness of your soup, offering a satisfying texture contrast. The fluffy interior and crunchy crust will complement every spoonful.
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Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the meal, balancing the richness of the soup’s flavors. Toss in some nuts or cheese for added crunch and depth.
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Potato Chips: Crunchy, salty potato chips add a fun twist that echoes the flavors of a classic Reuben, making a delightful snack alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
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Pickles or Pickled Veggies: The tanginess of pickles pairs beautifully with the creamy soup, reinforcing that delightful Reuben taste and adding a refreshing zing to each bite.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness brings a wonderful balance to the savory flavors of the soup, while their crispy exterior provides a satisfying texture. They can be seasoned simply or dipped in your favorite sauce.
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Apple Cinnamon Dessert: End on a sweet note with baked apples or a warm apple crisp. The fruity warmth will leave everyone feeling cozy, making it a lovely conclusion after a hearty soup meal.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Reuben Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Reuben Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a bit more broth or cream for a creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare a larger batch and store it in portions—perfect for quick meals on busy days!
Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best ingredients for my Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, pick chicken that’s fresh, with no dark spots or odors. When choosing sauerkraut, opt for brands with natural ingredients and look for crisp texture. For the cream, heavy cream offers richness, but if you’re going vegan, look for high-quality plant-based alternatives that are thick and creamy.
How should I store leftover Creamy Reuben Soup?
Very simply! Let your leftover soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When storing, it’s best to keep it away from light sources and at a stable, cool temperature to maintain its delicious flavors.
Can I freeze Creamy Reuben Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your Creamy Reuben Soup, allow it to cool completely, then pour into a freezer-safe container—remember to leave a little space for expansion! It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your Creamy Reuben Soup too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of beef or vegetable broth while stirring over low heat to reach your desired consistency. It’s a simple fix that will help you enjoy every spoonful!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, it’s wise to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure your broth is free of animal products for a vegan option. Always check labels for potential allergens, especially with store-bought ingredients to maintain safe cooking.
What if I want to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
It’s super easy! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken for cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative. The flavors remain delicious without sacrificing richness!
Creamy Reuben Soup: A Cozy Twist on a Beloved Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate, leaving any drippings behind for flavor.
- In the same pot, toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and onions become translucent.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Allow the mixture to cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot and add in 1 cup of rinsed sauerkraut and 4 cups of beef broth. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder while stirring, and let the soup simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes. Remove the pot from heat, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the warm Creamy Reuben Soup in bowls, garnishing with extra Swiss cheese on top, if desired.
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