If you’re looking for a delicious and unique appetizer, Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce is the perfect recipe to try. These tasty bites are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, making them an excellent choice for parties or family gatherings. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that everyone will love.
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Why You’ll Love This Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Reuben Balls combine the savory flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese, all coated in a crispy breadcrumb exterior. They’re irresistibly crunchy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside.
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Shape mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Reuben Balls hot with the spicy dipping sauce. Garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Paired with a zesty Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, these bites offer a whimsical take on a traditional favorite that is bound to delight your taste buds. Whether you serve them at a game day gathering or as a fun family dinner, you’ll be met with enthusiastic approval from your guests!
Ingredients for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 pound corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes (substitutions, healthy swaps)
If you’re looking to modify this recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some substitution options:
- Instead of corned beef, you can use smoked turkey or shredded chicken for a lighter alternative.
- For a vegetarian option, swap in lentils or chopped mushrooms for the corned beef.
- If you want to replace the Swiss cheese, consider using a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly twist.
- To make the dipping sauce healthier, opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or use a light mayo to reduce calories.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This is the heart of the Reuben Balls, and ensuring everything is well combined will give you the best flavor.
Step 2 – Form the Balls
Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This recipe should yield approximately 20-24 Reuben Balls, depending on the size you choose. As you roll the balls, you can coat them with breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior. This adds not only texture but also flavor!
Step 3 – Fry the Reuben Balls
In a deep frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of breadcrumbs dropped in sizzles immediately. Carefully place a few Reuben Balls into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the Mixture: For easier handling, chill the corned beef mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming the balls.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure proper frying temperature, use a kitchen thermometer. Ideally, the temperature should be around 350°F for frying.
- Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier version, you can bake the balls at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Test the Dipping Sauce: Adjust the spiciness of your Thousand Island sauce by adding more or less hot sauce according to your taste.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, like chopped bell peppers or onions, for additional flavor.
- Keep Them Warm: Use an oven set to low heat to keep the Reuben Balls warm while you fry the rest in batches.
Flavor Variations
- Sriracha Reuben Balls: Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha to the filling for an added kick.
- Classic Reuben Flavor: Mix in some dill pickle relish to the filling for a taste similarity to the original sandwich.
- Cheesy Spinach Option: Swap in spinach for the sauerkraut and use mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Buffalo Style: Mix crumbled blue cheese into the filling and serve with a spicy buffalo sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Reuben Balls are perfect served hot and fresh from the fryer! You can present them on a platter with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce in the center for a beautiful display. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added touch. They pair wonderfully with pickles or potato chips for a tangy, crunchy contrast.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Leftover Reuben Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to save them for later, they can be frozen. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through, or fry them directly from frozen.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
FAQ About Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Can I make Reuben Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This makes for a quick and stress-free cooking experience when guests arrive.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative to frying, you can cook the Reuben Balls in an air fryer. Preheat to 375°F and air fry for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
What can I serve with Reuben Balls?
In addition to the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, consider serving them alongside coleslaw, potato salad, or a light salad of mixed greens. They also pair well with beer or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage option.
How do I know when the Reuben Balls are done cooking?
You’ll know they’re ready when the exterior is a beautiful golden brown and crispy. A meat thermometer can also be used; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety.
Can I bake Reuben Balls instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is an excellent method for making these bites a bit healthier. Just make sure to spray them lightly with cooking spray before baking to achieve a similar crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce offer a flavorful, fun, and versatile appetizer that your family and friends will rave about. With a handful of ingredients and a simple step-by-step process, you’ll be able to whip up these tasty snacks in no time.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with substitutions and variations, they are sure to become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bites at your next gathering!