If you love a classic Reuben sandwich, get ready for a crispy, bite-sized twist that takes the flavors to the next level! These Reuben Balls are packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all rolled into crunchy, golden-brown bites. And to make them even better, they’re served with a zesty, Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce that adds the perfect kick!
Ideal for game day, parties, or snacking, these cheesy, crispy, and savory delights will quickly become a favorite appetizer. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Reuben Balls
✅ Crispy & Cheesy: A golden, crunchy coating with a gooey, cheesy center.
✅ Bold Flavors: All the classic Reuben sandwich flavors in a fun, bite-sized form.
✅ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep—perfect for any occasion!
✅ Perfect Party Appetizer: Great for sharing and dipping into that spicy sauce!
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Reuben Filling
- In a large bowl, combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper, then mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for 20-30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 2: Bread the Reuben Balls
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Flour in the first bowl.
- Beaten eggs in the second bowl.
- Panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
- Roll each Reuben Ball in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Repeat for all the balls and set them aside.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Reuben Balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the hot, crispy Reuben Balls and serve with the spicy dipping sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Swiss cheese for a final touch!
Tips for the Best Reuben Balls
- Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent soggy filling.
- Use finely chopped corned beef for a smoother mixture.
- Chill before frying to help the balls hold their shape.
- For extra crunch, double-coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Want a baked version? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Variations to Try
🔹 Air-Fried Reuben Balls: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
🔹 Reuben Sliders: Use the filling between mini slider buns for a sandwich twist!
🔹 Extra Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Reuben Balls
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce are the perfect party snack. Try them today! 🔥🧀
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Reuben Filling
- In a large bowl, combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper, then mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for 20-30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 2: Bread the Reuben Balls
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Flour in the first bowl.
- Beaten eggs in the second bowl.
- Panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
- Roll each Reuben Ball in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Repeat for all the balls and set them aside.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Reuben Balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the hot, crispy Reuben Balls and serve with the spicy dipping sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Swiss cheese for a final touch!
Notes
- Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent soggy filling.
- Use finely chopped corned beef for a smoother mixture.
- Chill before frying to help the balls hold their shape.
- For extra crunch, double-coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Want a baked version? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Keywords: Reuben Balls, crispy appetizer, cheesy snack, corned beef bites, Reuben-inspired dish, party food, deep-fried Reuben, Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and freeze the uncooked Reuben Balls for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Try Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone for a unique flavor twist.
What can I serve with Reuben Balls?
Besides the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce, try them with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fryer for 5-6 minutes to keep them crispy.
