Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp grainy mustard (optional)
- 1 ½ cups chopped corned beef (preferably deli-sliced or leftover)
- 1 cup well-drained sauerkraut
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup shredded potatoes (optional)
- ½ tsp caraway seeds (optional, crushed)
- 1 tsp pickle juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices rye bread, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for croutons)
- Garlic powder and caraway seed for seasoning croutons (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth roux and smells slightly nutty—about 2–3 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth a little at a time, stirring until smooth between each addition.
- Add the heavy cream and grainy mustard (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, and shredded Swiss cheese. Keep heat low to prevent the cheese from separating.
- Add shredded potatoes and caraway seeds if using. Stir until well combined. Add pickle juice at the end for brightness.
- Simmer the soup on low for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- While soup simmers, prepare rye croutons: toss cubed rye bread with olive oil or butter and seasonings. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Serve hot soup topped with crunchy rye croutons, chopped dill pickles, or an extra swirl of mustard if desired.
Notes
Drain sauerkraut well to avoid overly sour soup. For a keto version, skip the flour and croutons. Reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of milk or cream. Avoid microwaving without stirring—it can separate the cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg