Description
Looking for a bold, crispy, and irresistible appetizer that brings the flavor of a classic deli sandwich into party-perfect form? These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a total game-changer. Packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, these crunchy bites are a quick crowd-pleaser for game nights, holiday gatherings, or just easy dinner ideas. Paired with a spicy, creamy dipping sauce, they’re the ultimate comfort food and a standout among your favorite snack recipes. Whether you’re planning an indulgent weekend treat or looking for easy food ideas that deliver flavor fast, this easy recipe is guaranteed to win hearts.
Ingredients
1 cup finely chopped cooked corned beef
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
3/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup rye breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and cream cheese until fully incorporated.
2. Refrigerate the filling for 20–30 minutes to firm it up.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into uniform balls.
4. Set up three shallow bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of rye breadcrumbs and panko.
5. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to help them stick.
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy pan. Fry balls in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning to brown all sides evenly.
7. Drain fried balls on a paper towel-lined tray.
8. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, and garlic powder to make the spicy Thousand Island sauce.
9. Chill sauce until serving. Garnish balls with parsley if desired.
10. Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
Be sure to squeeze all excess moisture from the sauerkraut to prevent sogginess.
For a crispier exterior, double dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
You can make and freeze these ahead of time—just fry or bake from frozen when ready.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball with sauce
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 25
Keywords: reuben balls, crispy appetizer, spicy thousand island, easy recipe, party snack, food ideas, quick appetizer, dinner ideas