Description
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with tangy flavors. Made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, they are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for parties or game nights. Serve them with a bold and zesty dipping sauce for an irresistible snack!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Roll about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Coat the Balls: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Fry Until Crispy: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning as needed and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pair the crispy Reuben Balls with the spicy dipping sauce and enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze the balls before frying for an easy, ready-to-cook snack.
- Baking Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Alternative: Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for a healthier version.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American