Name: Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 breadcrumbs (panko recommended); Vegetable oil, for frying; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon pickle relish; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

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Introduction

Reuben Balls are a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, combining savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese in a crispy fried ball. Served with a zesty spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, they make a perfect appetizer or party snack that’s sure to impress.

The image shows seven golden-brown baked muffins arranged in a circle on a white plate, each muffin having a crispy, slightly textured top with a few green herb sprinkles. In the center of the plate is a small white bowl filled with creamy, light brown dipping sauce that has small green herb bits on top. The muffins have a slightly rough surface and appear fluffy inside. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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 breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until evenly blended. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill and firm up the mixture.
Step 2: Scoop the chilled mixture into 1-inch portions and gently roll each portion into a ball. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again to set.
Step 3: Prepare for breading by setting out three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Coat each ball first in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the Reuben Balls in small batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: To make the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Step 6: Serve the warm Reuben Balls on a platter alongside the dipping sauce and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, mix finely crushed rye crackers into the breadcrumbs before coating the balls.
Adjust the heat level in the dipping sauce by adding more hot sauce or smoked paprika if you prefer a spicier kick.
Try baking the balls instead of frying for a lighter version—bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until crispy.

Storage

Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by baking in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to retain their crispiness. You can also freeze cooked Reuben Balls for up to one month; reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12-15 minutes.

How to Serve

Seven golden brown, crispy muffin-shaped snacks arranged in a circle on a white plate, each topped with small green herb pieces. In the center of the plate is a small white bowl filled with a creamy orange-brown dip garnished with finely chopped herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is about to pick one snack. The overall look is warm and inviting, with texture showing on the muffins’ slightly uneven crusts and the dip's smooth, thick consistency. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Reuben Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bread the balls ahead, then refrigerate them until ready to fry. You can also freeze them after cooking for future meals.

What can I substitute for sauerkraut?

If you prefer a milder tang, try using finely chopped pickles or coleslaw mix as a substitute for sauerkraut in the filling.