Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I bit into one of those golden crispy spheres, memories of cozy deli afternoons flooded back to me—Reuben sandwiches shared over laughter and stories. Now, I’m excited to transform that classic comfort into a finger-food delight with my Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. These tantalizing bites pack all the rich flavors of a traditional Reuben, featuring a melty combination of Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and corned beef. Perfect for gatherings or game nights, they require minimal prep yet deliver maximum satisfaction. Plus, they make the ideal appetizer to impress your guests or simply treat yourself during a cozy night in. What’s not to love about a snack that offers both crunch and comfort? Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Why You’ll Crave Reuben Balls? Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with the iconic taste of a Reuben sandwich, with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese. Quick & Easy: These delectable bites come together in no time, making them the perfect last-minute party snack or game-day treat. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family or friends, everyone will love these nostalgic, crispy snacks. Pair them with a Spicy Shrimp Sushi for an impressive, themed platter. Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to experiment! Swap corned beef for turkey or use different cheeses to cater to your guests’ preferences. Ultimate Comfort Food: Experience the perfect marriage of crispy and chewy indulgence—who wouldn’t want that on their plate? These Reuben Balls are not just a treat; they bring back sweet memories. Reuben Balls Ingredients For the Filling • Corned Beef – Provides the savory, meaty flavor; can be replaced with turkey or vegetarian corned beef for a lighter option. • Sauerkraut – Adds a tangy crunch; be sure to use well-drained sauerkraut to prevent sogginess. • Swiss Cheese – Delivers creaminess in every bite; consider Gruyère or provolone for a different flavor twist. • Cream Cheese – Binds the filling together while enhancing the creaminess. • Dijon Mustard – Adds a vibrant tang; yellow mustard can substitute for a milder taste. For the Coating • Flour – A crucial component for coating the balls and ensuring a crispy texture. • Eggs – Acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly. • Breadcrumbs – Creates that delectable crunchy exterior; panko breadcrumbs offer extra crunch. For Frying • Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; ensure it reaches the right temperature for perfectly crispy Reuben Balls. For the Dipping Sauce • Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce that complements the balls beautifully. • Ketchup – Adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. • Pickle Relish – Contributes a delightful sweetness and texture to the sauce. • Hot Sauce – Introduces a spicy kick; adjust to your preferred heat level. • Smoked Paprika – Enhances flavor complexity and gives the sauce a lovely aroma. This ingredient lineup will have you well on your way to crafting those unforgettable Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Step 1: Prepare the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until all ingredients are evenly blended, creating a cohesive filling. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up. Step 2: Shape the Balls After chilling, scoop out 1-inch portions of the filling and roll them into balls using your hands. Make sure to compact them well so they hold their shape during frying. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. To ensure they remain firm, refrigerate the balls again for about 15 minutes while you prepare the coating setup. Step 3: Set Up the Coating Station Prepare your coating station by arranging three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Make sure the bowls are large enough to easily roll the Reuben Balls in. This setup will help you achieve a perfectly crispy exterior for your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Step 4: Coat the Balls Take each chilled ball and roll it in the flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the ball in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. This process should create a nice layer that will crisp up beautifully when fried. Step 5: Heat the Oil In a deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 2 inches of the bottom. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. To check for readiness, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Once the oil is hot, you’re ready to start frying the Reuben Balls. Step 6: Fry the Reuben Balls Carefully place a few balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry them for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. The crispy exterior should have a beautiful, crunchy texture that contrasts with the gooey filling inside, making these Reuben Balls a delight to enjoy. Step 7: Drain and Cool Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the fried Reuben Balls from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This step will help absorb any excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the dipping sauce, but serve them warm for the best flavor experience. Step 8: Make the Dipping Sauce In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level with more hot sauce if desired. This zesty sauce will perfectly complement the flavors of your Crispy Reuben Balls. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Arrange the warm Reuben Balls on a serving platter, placing the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce in the center for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. These bites make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or cozy nights at home, bringing the classic Reuben flavors to life in a fun and shareable way. Reuben Balls with Spicy Sauce Twists Feel free to unleash your inner chef and customize these delightful bites in a myriad of ways! Turkey Substitute: Replace corned beef with turkey for a lighter, yet equally satisfying option. The tangy notes from the sauerkraut still shine through deliciously. Cheese Variations: Swap Swiss cheese for aged cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. Experimenting with cheese elevates flavor profiles and makes each bite a new experience. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in freshly chopped green onions or dill into the filling for a burst of freshness. It’s amazing how herbs can brighten up the richness of the filling. Sautéed Veggies: Incorporate some finely diced bell peppers or sautéed onions into the mixture for added texture and flavor depth. They offer a lovely sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding extra hot sauce to the dipping sauce. It’s perfect for heat seekers who crave a spicy touch with their snacks. Sweet & Spicy Sauce: Mix in a splash of honey to the dipping sauce for an irresistible sweet-spicy combo. The caramelized flavor will make each dip a little adventure. Panko Crunch: Try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for an extra crispy exterior. You’ll love the delightful crunch that complements the tender filling. Try Alternative Sauces: Instead of the traditional sauce, consider using Korean BBQ Sauce for an unexpected twist. The flavors will surprise and delight your taste buds! Feel free to try any combination of these ideas for your next Reuben Balls feast, and savor the joy of creating a dish that’s uniquely yours! Storage Tips for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Fridge: Keep any leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat refrigerated or frozen Reuben Balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Serving Cold: If you have extra Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for snacking with other appetizers! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling (corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard) up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. Once the filling is ready, scoop and roll the balls and refrigerate them again for up to 3 days before frying to maintain their shape. To finish, simply heat vegetable oil and fry the balls straight from the fridge for crispy results. This not only saves time but ensures your flavorful appetizer is just as delicious when it’s time to serve! Expert Tips for Reuben Balls • Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying. Too low, and the balls become greasy; too high, and they can burn. • Chill Before Frying: Refrigerate the shaped Reuben Balls again for 15 minutes after coating. This helps them hold their shape during frying, yielding a better texture. • Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the Reuben Balls in small batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature and results in uneven cooking. • Breadcrumb Options: For an extra-crunchy exterior, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They provide more texture that complements the soft filling. • Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore crispiness before serving. • Custom Flavors: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap corned beef with turkey or add different cheeses to personalize your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. What to Serve with Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce? Creating a memorable meal goes beyond just a delicious bite; it’s about what you pair it with. Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the Reuben Balls, adding freshness and texture. Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges are a delightful side, complimenting the savory flavors while enhancing the overall crunchiness. Pickles and Olives: A platter of pickles and olives introduces a briny contrast that highlights the flavors of the Reuben without overwhelming them. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an excellent pairing, offering a different texture while retaining the comfort food vibe. Beer or Cider: A cold lager or hard cider effectively cuts through the richness, making every bite more enjoyable. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can elevate your appetizer spread, complementing the cheesiness of the Reuben Balls while providing varied tastes. Each of these pairings not only enhances your crispy Reuben balls experience but transforms it into a full-on feast that’s perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners alike. Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting corned beef? Absolutely! When selecting corned beef, look for cuts that are well-marbled and bright pink. Avoid any pieces that appear dull or gray, as they may be past their prime. For a lighter option, you can also consider using turkey or vegetarian corned beef. How can I store leftover Reuben Balls? Very! Store any leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crispy texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying them again. Can I freeze Reuben Balls and how should I do it? Yes! To freeze, lay the uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. What should I do if my filling is too wet? If your filling is too wet, it may cause the balls to not hold their shape during frying. To fix this, you can try adding more flour or breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, you can let the mixture sit in the refrigerator longer to firm up, which helps with binding. Are Reuben Balls safe for my pets or those with allergies? Absolutely not! Be cautious, as Reuben Balls contain ingredients like onions and garlic in the sauerkraut, which can be toxic to pets. If serving to guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to notify them of the contents, especially for those with allergies to dairy or gluten. Can I prepare Reuben Balls ahead of time? Yes! To save time, you can shape the Reuben Balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Just remember to coat them just before you’re ready to cook. This will ensure that they maintain their shape and crispy texture when fried. Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce Delight Delightful Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the ultimate comfort food infused with classic flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 12 ballsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 cup Corned Beef can be replaced with turkey1 cup Sauerkraut well-drained1 cup Swiss Cheese or Gruyère/provolone8 ounces Cream Cheese softened2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard or yellow mustardFor the Coating1 cup Flour2 large Eggs beaten1 cup Breadcrumbs panko recommendedFor Frying2 cups Vegetable Oil for fryingFor the Dipping Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise1/4 cup Ketchup2 tablespoons Pickle Relish1 teaspoon Hot Sauce adjust to taste1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Equipment Mixing bowlSkilletParchment paperSlotted SpoonShallow Bowls Method PreparationIn a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until evenly blended.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.Scoop 1-inch portions and roll into balls. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.Coating and FryingSet up a coating station with shallow bowls of flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.Roll each ball in flour, dip in eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs.Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).Fry the balls for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, turning occasionally.Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.Dipping SauceWhisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth.ServingArrange the Reuben Balls on a platter and serve with dipping sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesFor extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
