Easy Creamy Reuben Soup

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
1. **Heat Butter**: In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. **Cook the Onion and Garlic**: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

#### Step 2: Add the Corned Beef and Broth
1. **Add Corned Beef**: Stir in the chopped corned beef and cook for another 2 minutes until the meat begins to brown slightly.
2. **Add the Broth**: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

#### Step 3: Make It Creamy
1. **Stir in Half-and-Half**: Reduce the heat to low, and add the half-and-half to the soup. Stir to combine and heat the soup through, but avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent the cream from curdling.
2. **Add the Cheese**: Slowly stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
3. **Incorporate Sauerkraut**: Add the drained and rinsed sauerkraut (if using) and stir well. This will add a tangy flavor that’s characteristic of the Reuben sandwich.
4. **Add the Dressing**: Stir in the Russian or Thousand Island dressing. This will enhance the soup’s flavor with a little sweetness and tanginess.

#### Step 4: Season and Garnish
1. **Season**: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a pinch of caraway seeds if you want to give the soup an even more authentic Reuben flavor.
2. **Garnish**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color.

#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a small Reuben sandwich for dipping. The combination of the creamy soup and a bit of crunch from the bread makes this a perfectly comforting meal.

### Tips for Success:
– **Use Leftover Corned Beef**: This is a great way to use up leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or other meals. Simply chop it into small pieces and add it to the soup.
– **For Extra Tang**: If you love the tangy flavor, don’t skip the sauerkraut. It adds a delicious contrast to the creamy base.
– **Cheese Variations**: While Swiss cheese is traditional in a Reuben, you could try Gruyère or even a mild cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
– **Make It a Meal**: Serve this soup alongside a small Reuben sandwich, or pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

### Why This Recipe Works:
– **Quick and Easy**: The soup comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
– **Rich and Flavorful**: The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing creates a complex and flavorful broth that’s both hearty and satisfying.
– **Perfect for Fall and Winter**: As the weather cools, this warm, creamy soup makes a perfect addition to your fall and winter meal rotation.

### Conclusion:
**Easy Creamy Reuben Soup** is a delicious twist on a classic sandwich that’s perfect for cozy nights at home. With all the comforting flavors of a Reuben sandwich — corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing — this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a warm and hearty meal.

Whether you make it for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this creamy soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and indulgent. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of a Reuben in a whole new way!