Name: Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 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 (preferably panko); Vegetable oil, for frying (canola or sunflower oil recommended); 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 crispy, flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese. Paired with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, they make an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for parties or snack time.

The image shows a white round bowl in the center filled with creamy beige sauce with small brown and black specks on its surface, garnished with tiny green herbs. Surrounding the bowl are eight golden brown, crispy round baked balls with a textured surface, each topped with a small sprinkle of finely chopped green herbs. The balls are arranged closely around the bowl on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. 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 large bowl, mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm the mixture.
Step 2: Using a tablespoon or small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a lined baking sheet and chill again while preparing the coating.
Step 3: Set up three shallow bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning to brown evenly. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve the crispy Reuben Balls warm with the spicy Thousand Island sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
Leftover corned beef works perfectly and enhances flavor.
Adjust the hot sauce in the dipping sauce to match your preferred spice level.
For a vegetarian twist, substitute corned beef with sautéed mushrooms and smoked paprika for a similar savory flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness. The dipping sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve

The image shows seven golden-brown round fritters with a crispy texture, arranged in a circle on a white plate with a bowl of creamy, light beige dipping sauce in the center, sprinkled with small green herb pieces. The fritters are sprinkled lightly with chopped green herbs, giving a fresh look, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, but frying gives the best crispiness.

Can I prepare the Reuben Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can form and bread the balls in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to fry. This makes them convenient for parties or gatherings.