Step 5: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Cook:

Low setting: 6–7 hours
or
High setting: 3–4 hours

The soup is ready when:

• The potatoes are tender.
• The corned beef is soft.
• The flavors have blended together.

Cooking slowly allows the salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and seasonings to flavor the entire broth.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the creamy base.

In a bowl, combine:

• Softened cream cheese
• Heavy cream
• Flour

Whisk until smooth.

The flour helps slightly thicken the soup, while the cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture.

Step 7: Add the Cream Mixture

Slowly stir the cream mixture into the slow cooker.

Mix gently until fully combined.

Allow the soup to cook for another 20–30 minutes with the lid on.

During this time, the soup will become thicker and creamier.

Step 8: Add the Swiss Cheese

Add the shredded Swiss cheese during the final few minutes of cooking.

Stir until the cheese melts completely into the soup.

The cheese adds a smooth, nutty flavor that connects the soup back to the original Reuben sandwich.

Avoid boiling after adding cheese because high heat can cause dairy products to separate.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup before serving.

Adjust according to your preference:

• Add more pepper for extra spice.
• Add more mustard for stronger Reuben flavor.
• Add more cheese for extra creaminess.
• Add a splash of broth if the soup is too thick.

Remember that corned beef and sauerkraut already contain salt, so add extra salt carefully.

Step 10: Serve the Creamy Reuben Soup

Ladle the hot soup into bowls.

Top with:

• Shredded Swiss cheese
• Chopped parsley
• Extra corned beef
• Crispy rye bread pieces

For the full Reuben experience, serve it with toasted rye bread on the side.

The combination of creamy soup and crunchy rye bread creates the same satisfying contrast as the original sandwich.

Helpful Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Reuben Soup

Use quality corned beef

Corned beef is the main flavor of the soup, so using good-quality meat makes a noticeable difference.

Drain the sauerkraut

This keeps the soup balanced and prevents too much sourness.

Add cheese at the end

Adding cheese too early can make the texture less smooth.

Cut potatoes evenly

Small, even pieces cook more consistently.

Do not rush the slow cooking

The long cooking time allows the flavors to develop properly.

Delicious Variations

Low-Carb Reuben Soup

Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carbohydrate version.

Extra Cheesy Version

Add cheddar cheese along with Swiss cheese for a stronger cheese flavor.

Spicy Reuben Soup

Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Bacon Reuben Soup

Add crispy bacon pieces for extra smoky flavor.

Vegetable Version

Add celery, carrots, or mushrooms for more texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

When reheating:

• Warm slowly on the stovetop over low heat.
• Stir frequently.
• Add a little broth or milk if the soup becomes too thick.

Avoid boiling because the creamy base may separate.

This soup can also be frozen, although the texture may change slightly because of the dairy ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Reuben Soup is a delicious way to enjoy the famous Reuben sandwich in a warm and comforting bowl. The combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy cheese, and flavorful broth creates a unique soup that feels both familiar and new.

With simple preparation and slow cooking, this recipe turns classic deli flavors into a hearty homemade meal that is perfect for cozy evenings, gatherings, or whenever you crave something rich and satisfying.