Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling corned beef filled the air, instantly transporting me to the comfort of my favorite deli. These Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are my go-to when I crave that classic sandwich flavor in a fun, bite-sized form. Not only do they satisfy my love for hearty appetizers, but they’re also incredibly quick to whip up, making them the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a melty interior packed with Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut, these delightful morsels are sure to steal the show. Who wouldn’t want to dive into a plate of these flavorful bites paired with a zesty dipping sauce? Ready to indulge in this comforting twist on a classic? Let’s get cooking! Why Are Reuben Balls a Must-Try? Crispy, Crunchy Delight: Each bite of these Reuben Balls offers a wonderful texture, with a golden crispy coating encasing melty cheese and savory corned beef. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress friends and family with this simple yet satisfying appetizer. Versatile Flavor Profile: Enjoy the classic Reuben flavors with the option to adapt ingredients to your preference—try turkey for a lighter twist or add extra spices for a kick! Perfect Party Snack: Ideal for any gathering, these bite-sized treats appeal to guests of all ages, making them a hit at game days or cozy dinners. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Pair with the zesty Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to keep everyone coming back for more! Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Ingredients For the Balls • Corned Beef – Provides savory richness; you can substitute with pastrami for a different flavor. • Sauerkraut – Adds tang and crunch; fresh cabbage seasoned with vinegar can be used for a lighter option. • Shredded Swiss Cheese – Offers a creamy texture that melts beautifully; Gruyère makes for a more robust flavor. • Cream Cheese – Binds the ingredients and adds creaminess; consider using Neufchâtel for a lighter version. • Dijon Mustard – Adds a zesty kick; yellow mustard is a suitable substitute if preferred. • Flour – Used for dredging before the egg wash; gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free option. • Eggs – Serves as a binder in the breading process; replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative. • Breadcrumbs – Provides the crispy coating; opt for panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or gluten-free options. • Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; canola or peanut oil are great substitutes that impart different flavors. For the Dipping Sauce • Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base; Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative. • Ketchup – Adds sweetness; use sugar-free versions if you’re watching your sugar intake. • Pickle Relish – Contributes tang; chopped pickles can work if you’re out of relish. • Hot Sauce – Offers a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat preference. • Smoked Paprika – Enhances flavor with a hint of smokiness; regular paprika can be used if unavailable. Dive into these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce for a satisfying way to enjoy a beloved classic in a fun, bite-sized format! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Step 1: Prep Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine diced corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Use a fork to mix until well-combined and the ingredients are cohesive. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, making it easier to form the Reuben Balls later. Step 2: Form Balls After chilling the filling, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions using a cookie scoop or your hands. Roll each portion into a compact 1-inch ball, ensuring they’re uniform in size for even cooking. Place the formed Reuben Balls on a lined baking sheet and return them to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to firm up, which helps them hold their shape while frying. Step 3: Breading Station Prepare your breading station by setting out three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add flour for dredging; in the second bowl, beat a couple of eggs until smooth, and in the third bowl, pour in breadcrumbs. This assembly line will help you coat each Reuben Ball consistently, making them crispy on the outside when fried. Step 4: Coat Balls Take each chilled Reuben Ball and roll it first in flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, followed by rolling it in breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat this process until all the balls are coated, ensuring they have an even and thick layer for a delightful crunch. Step 5: Fry Balls In a large skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few coated Reuben Balls to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per batch, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Step 6: Prepare Sauce While the Reuben Balls are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. Adjust the level of hot sauce based on your heat preference for the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Mix until smooth and well-combined, setting it aside to let the flavors develop. Step 7: Serve Arrange the crispy Reuben Balls on a serving platter, allowing them to cool slightly, and serve them warm alongside the spicy dipping sauce. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Your guests will love diving into this delightful appetizer that brings the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a fun, bite-sized form! Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative with these Reuben Balls and tailor the flavors to your liking! Corned Beef Substitute: Swap corned beef for shredded chicken or turkey to lighten up the dish. It’s a delicious twist that still delivers great flavor. Cheese Variations: Try using bold cheeses like Pepper Jack for a spicier kick, or opt for Gouda for a smoky flavor. Each cheese offers its unique twist on the classic taste. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if you’re avoiding gluten. It’s an easy swap that keeps these delicious bites accessible for everyone. Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a savory veggie-packed version. This variation is just as satisfying and full of flavor! Heat Level Boost: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in your dipping sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. Elevating the heat brings an exciting zing to every bite! Herb Infusion: Mix fresh or dried herbs such as dill or thyme into the filling. This addition brings a vibrant, aromatic quality that complements the Reuben flavors beautifully. Sauerkraut Swap: Experiment with kimchi instead of sauerkraut for a tangy, spicy kick. It’s a fun twist that adds an unexpected depth of flavor. Baking Instead of Frying: For a healthier version, bake the coated Reuben Balls at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown, flipping halfway through. You’ll achieve a delightful texture without the extra oil. Explore these variations to find your favorite way to enjoy these irresistible Reuben Balls! And if you’re interested in more delicious options, check out our Classic Reuben Sandwich or try a Spicy Fried Cheese Ball recipe for different yet equally mouthwatering flavors. How to Store and Freeze Reuben Balls Fridge: Store cooled Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated or cooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warm, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy. Serving Suggestions: These Reuben Balls make for a fantastic appetizer, just remember to pair them with that spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce for the full flavor experience! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—combining the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix, cover, and refrigerate for optimal flavor development. Additionally, form the balls and refrigerate them for another 15-30 minutes before frying to ensure they hold their shape during cooking. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the balls until golden and crispy, and whip up the dipping sauce right before serving for just as delicious results. Enjoy the convenience of make-ahead planning, and savor these delightful bites without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for Reuben Balls Oil Temperature: Monitor the oil closely; too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Aim for 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; frying in smaller batches ensures even cooking and maintains a crispy texture for your Reuben Balls. Chill Before Frying: Allow the formed balls to chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape during cooking. Reheating: For leftover Reuben Balls, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain their delightful crunch. Customize Flavor: Feel free to adjust the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce according to your taste. Add extra spices or reduce hot sauce for a milder option. What to Serve with Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Elevate your amazing Reuben Balls feast with delicious sides that will tantalize your taste buds and create a memorable dining experience. Crispy Potato Wedges: The soft inside and crispy exterior of these wedges balance the crunch of the Reuben Balls perfectly, adding heartiness to your meal. Classic Coleslaw: Cool and tangy, this coleslaw brings a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the Reuben Balls, creating a satisfying contrast. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and chewy, these breadsticks take on the bold flavors of the dipping sauce while providing a delightful texture to your appetizer spread. Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles can offer a contrast in taste and texture, enhancing the meal with zesty flavors that pair wonderfully with the Reuben-inspired dish. Beer Selection: Serve a chilled lager or a light ale to cleanse your palate between bites, amplifying the indulgent flavors of the Reuben Balls. Homemade Potato Salad: Creamy and flavorful, this can be a hearty side that balances the spice of the dipping sauce while maintaining a comforting vibe. Fresh Vegetable Crudités: Crisp, fresh veggies like carrots and bell peppers dipped in the zesty sauce provide a light, refreshing addition to the dish. Chocolate Mint Brownies: For dessert, these fudgy treats with a hint of mint can round off your meal nicely, harmonizing flavors that linger on your palate. Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs What kind of corned beef should I use for Reuben Balls? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a high-quality corned beef. Look for cuts that are tender and juicy without dark spots all over, indicating freshness. You can also substitute it with pastrami for a unique twist on the flavor. How long can I store Reuben Balls in the fridge? You can store cooled Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can enjoy delicious leftovers without worrying about spoilage! Can I freeze Reuben Balls, and how should I do it? Certainly! To freeze Reuben Balls, first, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen by placing them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to keep that crispy texture intact. What should I do if my Reuben Balls aren’t cooking evenly? Very often, uneven cooking comes from overcrowding the pan. Be sure to fry the balls in smaller batches to ensure they cook properly. If they still don’t seem to be cooking evenly, check the oil temperature with a thermometer—350°F (175°C) is ideal for even frying without burning. Are Reuben Balls suitable for people with gluten intolerance? Yes! You can easily make gluten-free Reuben Balls. Use gluten-free flour for dredging, gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating, and ensure the corned beef is gluten-free. This allows anyone to enjoy these delightful snacks without worry! Can I customize the Thousand Island dipping sauce for different tastes? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels in the dipping sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce. You can also experiment by adding additional spices like garlic powder or onion powder to create a unique twist that caters to your taste buds! Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce Bliss Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce is a delightful bite-sized appetizer that brings classic sandwich flavors to your table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 ballsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Balls2 cups Corned Beef Substitute with pastrami for a different flavor1 cup Sauerkraut Fresh cabbage seasoned with vinegar can be used1 cup Shredded Swiss Cheese Gruyère makes for a more robust flavor4 oz Cream Cheese Consider using Neufchâtel for a lighter version2 tbsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard is a suitable substitute1 cup Flour Gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free option2 large Eggs Replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative1 cup Breadcrumbs Opt for panko for extra crunch2 cups Vegetable Oil Canola or peanut oil are great substitutesFor the Dipping Sauce1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative1 tbsp Ketchup Use sugar-free versions if preferred1 tbsp Pickle Relish Chopped pickles can work in a pinch1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust according to your heat preference1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if unavailable Equipment Large mixing bowlcookie scoopShallow bowlsLarge skilletSlotted spoonPaper towels Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine diced corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well-combined and cohesive. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll each into a compact 1-inch ball. Place them on a lined baking sheet and chill for 15 minutes.Prepare three shallow bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs for the breading station.Coat each Reuben Ball first in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally roll in breadcrumbs.Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet at 350°F (175°C) and fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.While frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Set aside.Serve the crispy Reuben Balls warm alongside the dipping sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesMonitor oil temperature and fry in small batches for even cooking. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
