As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling corned beef filled the air, immediately transporting me to cozy pub nights spent sharing delicious bites. That’s how these Easy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip came to life! Enveloping all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a crispy coating, these irresistible appetizers are quick to whip up and perfect for any gathering. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also offer a unique twist on traditional fare, making snacking an adventure. Whether served at a game day celebration or as a fun family dinner, these savory delights are guaranteed to bring smiles. Are you ready to elevate your next get-together with these mouthwatering Reuben Balls? Why are Reuben Balls the Ultimate Snack? Crispy, these Reuben Balls boast a delightful crunch that perfectly contrasts the gooey, cheesy interior, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Flavor-packed, the mix of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and zesty sauce creates a savory explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. Quick to make, you can whip up these treats in no time, making them ideal for spontaneous gatherings or family dinners. Versatile, they pair splendidly with drinks like beer or root beer, while also offering a gluten-free option to accommodate various dietary needs. Give these your spin by experimenting with different cheeses or meats, and watch them disappear from the table! Reuben Balls Ingredients For the Filling • Corned Beef – Provides savory depth; ensure it’s finely chopped for even blending. • Sauerkraut – Offers tanginess; drain and squeeze it dry to prevent sogginess. • Swiss Cheese – Adds cheesiness and creaminess; can substitute with Gruyère or provolone. • Cream Cheese – Enhances richness and binds the mixture; must be softened for easy mixing. • Dijon Mustard – Brings acidity and slight heat; yellow mustard can be used as an alternative. • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Provide aromatic depth; fresh alternatives may be used if desired. • Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste. For Coating and Frying • All-Purpose Flour – Used for dredging; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free version. • Eggs – Binds the mixture and helps create a crispy coating. • Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds crunch; can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed rye chips. • Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; ensure it reaches the correct temperature for crispiness. For the Dipping Sauce • Mayonnaise – A creamy base for the dip. • Ketchup – Adds sweetness and acidity to the dip. • Sweet Pickle Relish – Gives texture and sweetness. • Hot Sauce – Adds heat; adjust for preference. • Smoked Paprika – Contributes smokiness and color to the dip. • Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor. • Minced Onion or Onion Powder – For additional flavor in the dip. Gather these ingredients and get ready to create your delicious Reuben Balls that will steal the show at any gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Reuben Balls Step 1: Prepare the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped corned beef, drained and squeezed sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until you have a uniform, creamy mixture that embodies the flavors of Reuben Balls. Step 2: Chill the Mixture Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 30–45 minutes. This chilling period allows the ingredients to firm up and blend together, making it easier to handle when shaping the balls later. Remove it from the fridge when ready to proceed for a perfect texture. Step 3: Shape the Balls Using your hands, take small portions of the chilled mixture and gently roll them into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. Aim for a smooth shape to ensure even frying later on. Place the formed Reuben Balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to prevent sticking, and get ready to dredge for that crunchy outside. Step 4: Set Up Dredging Station Prepare your dredging station by placing all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. This organized setup will make coating your Reuben Balls quick and efficient. Make sure that each component is ready to go, ensuring a crispy outcome when frying. Step 5: Coat the Balls First, roll each ball in flour, coating it evenly and shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the liquid to cover the surface before letting any extra drip off. Finally, roll the ball in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated for an irresistible crunch. Repeat with each ball until finished. Step 6: Heat the Oil In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To check the temperature, you can drop a piece of bread into the oil—if it bubbles and turns golden, it’s ready. Ensure you have enough oil to cover the Reuben Balls while frying for an even crispiness. Step 7: Fry the Balls Carefully add the coated Reuben Balls to the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 2–3 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color and are crisp on all sides. Avoid overcrowding to maintain the oil temperature, which ensures they cook evenly and don’t become greasy. Step 8: Drain and Cool Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the Reuben Balls from the oil and immediately place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them light and crispy. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the spicy dipping sauce. Step 9: Prepare the Dipping Sauce In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Stir until everything is combined and taste, adjusting seasoning to your preference. This zesty dip will perfectly complement your crispy Reuben Balls, adding a delightful kick. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy Arrange the hot Reuben Balls on a serving platter with the spicy dipping sauce on the side. These delightful morsels are best enjoyed warm, allowing the creamy, flavorful filling to shine through the crispy coating. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, they’re bound to be a hit! How to Store and Freeze Reuben Balls Room Temperature: Keep leftover Reuben Balls at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking to ensure safety. Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness. Freezer: Freeze uncoated or cooked Reuben Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the insides are warm and the outside stays crunchy. Reuben Balls Variations & Substitutions Feel free to add your personal touch to these delicious Reuben Balls and make them your own! Pastrami Swap: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a smoky twist that changes the whole flavor profile. Cheese Alternatives: Try Gruyère, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a different cheesy kick that surprises your taste buds. The creaminess adds a welcoming richness! Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs, allowing everyone to enjoy these crispy delights. Veggie Twist: For a vegetarian option, consider swapping in sautéed mushrooms or lentils with the traditional mix to create a hearty version that’s equally satisfying. Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes to enjoy a lighter, yet still flavorful, alternative that keeps the texture crispy. Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra kick that will have your taste buds dancing! Creative Dips: Consider serving with a garlic aioli or a tangy ranch dressing for a different dipping experience that complements the flavors beautifully. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives into the filling to brighten up the flavors, adding a fresh note that elevates the dish. These variations are just the beginning! To expand your culinary adventure, explore serving these Reuben Balls alongside a refreshing coleslaw or a zesty potato wedge dish to round out the meal perfectly. Enjoy your cooking journey! What to Serve with Easy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Elevate your gathering’s snacking scene with complementary dishes that harmonize with the irresistible flavors of these crispy delights! Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich Reuben Balls, balancing flavors beautifully. The tangy dressing harmonizes with the savory filling, making each bite satisfying. Dill Pickles: A classic pairing, the sharp acidity of dill pickles cuts through the richness, enhancing the savory notes of the corned beef. Their crunch adds a delightful texture that contrasts nicely with soft, cheesy bites. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty counterpart to the Reuben Balls. Seasoned with herbs and spices, they create a rustic, comforting vibe that everyone will love. Beer or Root Beer: A chilled beer or a refreshing root beer pairs perfectly with the Reuben Balls. The carbonation cleanses the palate while complementing the savory flavor profile of the dish impressively. Spicy Garlic Fries: The flavor-packed garlic fries provide an added crunch and zest, creating an exciting combination with the creamy Thousand Island dip. They’ll keep your guests coming back for more! Pickled peppers: Add a zesty kick with pickled peppers that offer both bite and brightness, perfectly balancing the heavy flavors of the Reuben Balls. Their tanginess is sure to spark your taste buds! Mini Pretzel Bites: Soft pretzel bites with a hint of salt are another great avenue. Their chewy texture and subtle flavor make an unexpected but delightful pairing with the rich, cheesy appetizer. Serving up these accompaniments will take your Reuben Balls experience to the next level, ensuring a hit at every gathering! Make Ahead Options These Easy Reuben Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance by mixing together the corned beef, sauerkraut, cheeses, cream cheese, and spices, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll the mixture into balls, coat them, and fry them on the day you want to enjoy them, ensuring they’re just as delicious and crispy. For added convenience, you can also freeze the formed, un-fried balls for up to 3 months, frying them straight from the freezer without thawing for an easy, last-minute appetizer! Expert Tips for Perfect Reuben Balls Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the filling for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the Reuben Balls hold their shape during frying. Squeeze Sauerkraut: Ensure to drain and squeeze the sauerkraut well to avoid sogginess, which helps maintain the integrity of each ball. Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to ensure the frying oil is at 350°F (175°C) for the crispiest Reuben Balls; too low and they absorb excess oil, becoming greasy. Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot; this keeps the oil temperature steady for even cooking and crisping. Double Coating: For an extra crunch, consider double-coating your Reuben Balls by dipping them again in egg and breadcrumbs before frying. Reuben Balls Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting corned beef for my Reuben Balls? Absolutely! When choosing corned beef, look for a piece that is well-marbled and not overly lean, as the fat contributes to the flavor and moisture of your Reuben Balls. If you can’t find fresh, deli-sliced corned beef works perfectly fine—just ensure it’s finely chopped to blend evenly with the other ingredients. How can I store leftover Reuben Balls? Very simple! After cooking, you can store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled Reuben Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Is it possible to make these Reuben Balls gluten-free? Definitely! For a gluten-free version of Reuben Balls, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the coating. Always check your other ingredients, like mustard and sauces, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. What can I do if my Reuben Balls are falling apart while frying? Oh no! If your Reuben Balls are crumbling, it might be due to either the mixture being too wet or the frying temperature being too low. To fix this, make sure you’ve thoroughly drained and squeezed the sauerkraut before mixing. Additionally, ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before you start frying—this helps them form a crust and stay together. Can I prepare the filling in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the Reuben Balls filling up to 2 days in advance. Just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply form the balls, coat them, and fry as directed. This makes entertaining so much easier! What kind of dipping sauces pair well with Reuben Balls? The more the merrier! While a spicy Thousand Island dip is a classic choice, you can also try a creamy ranch dressing, a tangy mustard sauce, or even homemade garlic aioli. Each offers a delightful twist that complements the savory flavors of your Reuben Balls beautifully. Crispy Reuben Balls for Heavenly Party Appetizers These Crispy Reuben Balls packed with corned beef and Swiss cheese are the ultimate party appetizers that will delight any crowd! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 45 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 ballsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 cup Corned Beef finely chopped1 cup Sauerkraut drained and squeezed dry1 cup Swiss Cheese diced4 oz Cream Cheese softened1 tbsp Dijon Mustard1 tsp Garlic Powder1 tsp Onion Powder1 tsp Salt to taste1 tsp Black Pepper to tasteFor Coating and Frying1 cup All-Purpose Flour can substitute with gluten-free flour2 large Eggs beaten1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs2 cups Vegetable Oil for fryingFor the Dipping Sauce1 cup Mayonnaise1 tbsp Ketchup2 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish1 tsp Hot Sauce adjust for preference1 tsp Smoked Paprika1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce1 tsp Minced Onion or onion powder Equipment large mixing bowlShallow BowlsDeep potSlotted spoonBaking sheet Method Preparation StepsIn a large mixing bowl, combine finely chopped corned beef, drained and squeezed sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until creamy.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for 30-45 minutes.Shape small portions of the chilled mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.Set up dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.Roll each ball in flour then coat with beaten eggs and finally roll in panko breadcrumbs.Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).Fry the coated Reuben Balls in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder for the dipping sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.Serve the hot Reuben Balls with the spicy dipping sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesChill the mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping. For extra crunch, consider double-coating your Reuben Balls before frying. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
