Spicy Jalapeño Grilled Cheese Soup with a Reuben Twist is a deliciously creative take on classic comfort food. This recipe combines the comforting, creamy goodness of tomato soup with the kick of jalapeños and the hearty flavors of a Reuben sandwich. Loaded with cheese and served with crispy grilled cheese croutons, this soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Get ready for a bowl of hearty goodness that will please any palate!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Reuben Twist:
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup diced corned beef
- 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread (your choice)
- 4 slices of cheddar or Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Preparation
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only partially. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Reuben Twist**
In a small bowl, combine the sauerkraut, diced corned beef, Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.
Step 5: Make the Grilled Cheese Croutons
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Assemble the grilled cheese sandwiches by placing a slice of cheese between two slices of bread. Cook each sandwich in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat, slice into cubes, and set aside.
Step 6: Serve the Soup**
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous scoop of the Reuben mixture and scatter the grilled cheese croutons on top. Serve immediately.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the corned beef with mushrooms or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spicier Kick: Add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love extra heat.
- Herbed Flavor: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
Cooking Notes
- Blending: If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Thickening the Soup: If the soup is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce and thicken, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Jalapeño Grilled Cheese Soup with a Reuben Twist pairs perfectly with a side salad or more grilled cheese sandwiches. It makes for a hearty lunch or dinner that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food.
Tips
- Bread Choice: Use hearty bread like sourdough or rye for the grilled cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare the soup base ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve, adding the cream and cheese just before serving for optimal creaminess.
- Garnish: Top with additional jalapeños, cheese, or fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, the soup can be made a day ahead. Just reheat before serving and add the cream and cheese at the end.
2. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.
3. Is this soup spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of jalapeños used or by adding hot sauce. It has a nice kick without being overwhelming.
Conclusion
Spicy Jalapeño Grilled Cheese Soup with a Reuben Twist is a delightful and hearty meal that combines two beloved dishes into one comforting bowl. With the creamy soup base, spicy jalapeños, and savory Reuben flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this warm, satisfying soup as a perfect meal for any occasion!