Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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If you’re a fan of classic Reuben sandwiches, you’re going to love these Reuben Balls! Crispy on the outside and filled with melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef, they’re the ultimate bite-sized treat. Paired with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, this appetizer packs all the flavors of a deli-favorite sandwich into a crunchy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible package.

Bite-Sized Reuben Perfection

These Reuben Balls are a fun twist on the beloved sandwich, ideal for parties, game-day snacking, or just as a creative comfort food treat. The crunchy coating gives way to a creamy, gooey filling, bursting with bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these Reuben Balls are sure to become a crowd favorite.

And let’s not forget the dipping sauce! The spicy Thousand Island dip adds just the right kick to complement the savory filling. It’s creamy, tangy, and just a little zesty—perfect for dunking.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and make these delicious bites? Let’s dive into the ingredients and the easy steps to create this flavor-packed recipe!

Ingredients for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

To craft these crispy and flavorful Reuben Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to gather high-quality components to achieve the best results:

For the Reuben Balls:

• Corned Beef – About 1 ½ cups of chopped or shredded corned beef. Use leftover corned beef for maximum flavor or purchase from your deli.
• Sauerkraut – 1 cup, drained and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture. This adds the signature tangy kick to the filling.
• Swiss Cheese – 1 cup, shredded. Its creamy, nutty flavor melts beautifully inside the Reuben Balls.
• Cream Cheese – 4 ounces, softened, to bind the ingredients together and create a luscious filling.
• Dijon Mustard – 1 tablespoon, for a hint of sharpness that complements the corned beef and cheese.
• All-Purpose Flour – ½ cup, for coating before frying.
• Eggs – 2, beaten, to help the breadcrumbs stick to the balls.
• Breadcrumbs – 1 ½ cups, for a crispy golden crust. Use panko for extra crunch.
• Vegetable Oil – For frying. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or sunflower oil.

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

• Mayonnaise – ½ cup, for the creamy base.
• Ketchup – 2 tablespoons, to give it that classic Thousand Island flavor.
• Pickle Relish – 1 tablespoon, for a hint of sweetness and crunch.
• Hot Sauce – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) to bring the heat.
• Smoked Paprika – ½ teaspoon, for a touch of smoky warmth.

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How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Making these Reuben Balls is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect appetizer every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed and form a cohesive mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture for easier rolling.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Once the mixture has chilled, use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion out the filling. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and return them to the refrigerator while you prepare the coating.

Step 3: Bread the Balls

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Take each Reuben Ball and roll it in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Repeat until all the balls are coated.

Step 4: Fry the Reuben Balls

In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

While the Reuben Balls are frying, prepare the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crispy Reuben Balls on a serving platter with a bowl of the spicy Thousand Island sauce in the center. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve warm.

These deliciously golden bites won’t last long—get ready for rave reviews!

How Long to Fry Reuben Balls

The frying process is quick, but timing is key to achieving perfectly crispy and golden Reuben Balls. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Oil Temperature – Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature ensures the balls fry evenly and don’t absorb excess oil.
• Frying Time – Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning. The balls should be golden and crisp on the outside while the cheese inside melts to perfection.

Tips for Perfect Frying:

• Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy Reuben Balls.
• Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to gently lower the balls into the hot oil and remove them safely once fried.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, don’t worry—Reuben Balls store well for reheating later. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator – Place leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezer – For longer storage, freeze the fully cooked and cooled Reuben Balls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12-15 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Reuben Balls

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Reuben Balls turn out flawless every time:

• Firm Filling – Chill the filling before rolling it into balls. This helps the mixture hold its shape during breading and frying.
• Even Coating – Make sure each ball is thoroughly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs to achieve a uniform crispy exterior.
• Oil Temperature – Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, keeping it steady at 350°F (175°C). This ensures the Reuben Balls fry perfectly without becoming greasy.
• Customize the Dipping Sauce – Adjust the level of heat in the Thousand Island sauce by adding more hot sauce or smoked paprika to your taste.
• Additional Toppings – For added crunch, try mixing finely chopped nuts or crushed rye crackers into the breadcrumbs.

These tips will guarantee that your Reuben Balls are crispy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible every time you make them!

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