If you’re craving a snack that’s crunchy on the outside and creamy, cheesy, and tangy on the inside, Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are about to be your new favorite indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a creative way to use leftover corned beef, or simply wanting to enjoy a bite-sized version of the classic Reuben sandwich, these crispy delights will hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love These Reuben Balls
- Crispy and Golden: A crunchy breadcrumb coating seals in the gooey, cheesy filling.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut gives a punch of tangy, savory goodness.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this an accessible dish for home cooks.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at parties, potlucks, or even as a snack for a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Reuben Balls and Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Reuben Balls and their irresistible dipping sauce. The recipe scales easily, so you can adjust based on how many servings you need.
For the Reuben Balls:
| Ingredient | 1x | 2x | 3x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chopped or shredded corned beef | 1 ½ cups | 3 cups | 4 ½ cups |
| Sauerkraut (drained & squeezed dry) | 1 cup | 2 cups | 3 cups |
| Shredded Swiss cheese | 1 cup | 2 cups | 3 cups |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 oz | 8 oz | 12 oz |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | 3 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | 1 cup | 1 ½ cups |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 | 4 | 6 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 ½ cups | 3 cups | 4 ½ cups |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed | As needed | As needed |
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
| Ingredient | 1x | 2x | 3x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | 1 cup | 1 ½ cups |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp | 4 tbsp | 6 tbsp |
| Pickle relish | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | 3 tbsp |
| Hot sauce (adjust to taste) | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | 3 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | 1 ½ tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Reuben Balls
1. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything well until you get a uniform consistency.
2. Form the Balls
- Scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used, then place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Coat the Balls
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Flour: Place all-purpose flour in the first bowl.
- Eggs: Beat the eggs in the second bowl.
- Breadcrumbs: Add panko breadcrumbs to the third bowl.
- Roll each Reuben ball in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs lightly to ensure they stick.
4. Fry Until Crispy
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Reuben balls in batches, ensuring they are golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
How to Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Making this dipping sauce takes just a minute and adds a bold, tangy kick to the crispy Reuben Balls.
1. Mix the Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika.
2. Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more hot sauce if desired.
3. Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Reuben Balls
✔ Use Leftover Corned Beef: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers from a corned beef dinner.
✔ Drain the Sauerkraut Well: Too much moisture can make the filling soggy, so be sure to squeeze it dry before mixing.
✔ Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy exterior, dip the coated balls in egg and breadcrumbs again before frying.
✔ Use an Air Fryer: If you want a healthier version, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these crispy Reuben Balls with:
- Cold Beer: The malty flavors of a lager or stout balance the richness.
- Pickles & Slaw: A side of tangy pickles or coleslaw complements the flavors.
- Other Dips: Try honey mustard or horseradish aioli for variety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 3 Reuben Balls)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sodium | 460mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Reuben Balls
1. Can I bake Reuben Balls instead of frying?
Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes until crispy, turning halfway through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the frying time.
4. What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
6. What if I don’t like Swiss cheese?
You can swap it for cheddar, provolone, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts: Try This Crowd-Pleasing Snack Today!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the perfect fusion of crispy, cheesy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or a fun dinner, they’re sure to impress.
So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the ultimate crispy appetizer with a spicy kick! 🍽️🔥