Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce – 7 Crispy Savory Bites


Introduction

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce take all the bold, layered flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich and transform them into crisp, bite-sized appetizers. Packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, these golden-fried bites deliver a creamy, tangy, and savory center wrapped in a crunchy coating.

Each bite balances richness and acidity. The salty corned beef and melted Swiss cheese are brightened by sauerkraut’s tang, while the crispy breadcrumb exterior adds satisfying texture. Paired with a Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, the flavors come together in a way that feels familiar yet playful.

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for gatherings, game days, holiday spreads, or anytime you want a shareable appetizer that feels hearty and satisfying.


Ingredients Overview

Corned beef is the heart of these Reuben balls. Finely chopped deli-style corned beef works best because it blends evenly into the filling. It provides savory depth and a distinctive cured flavor.

Sauerkraut adds essential tanginess. Drain it thoroughly and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a soggy mixture. The acidity balances the richness of the beef and cheese.

Swiss cheese brings creaminess and mild nuttiness. Shredded Swiss melts smoothly, helping bind the filling together while adding signature Reuben flavor.

Cream cheese acts as a binder. It creates a cohesive mixture that holds its shape during frying and contributes a smooth texture inside each ball.

Dijon mustard enhances the savory notes and adds subtle sharpness.

For the coating, all-purpose flour helps the egg adhere, beaten eggs provide structure, and seasoned breadcrumbs create a crisp exterior. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.

Vegetable oil with a high smoke point is ideal for frying, ensuring even browning.

The Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce combines mayonnaise, ketchup, a small amount of prepared horseradish, sweet pickle relish, and a dash of hot sauce. This mixture adds creamy heat and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory filling.


Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the filling. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups finely chopped corned beef, 1 cup well-drained sauerkraut, 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm the mixture, making it easier to shape.

Once chilled, scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into compact balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs.

Roll each ball in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat in breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure even coverage. For extra crispness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F. Fry the balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and heated through.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

To prepare the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish, and a few drops of hot sauce. Stir until smooth.

Serve the Reuben balls warm with the dipping sauce on the side.


Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Make sure the sauerkraut is thoroughly drained to prevent the filling from becoming too wet.

For a baked version, place breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the horseradish and hot sauce in the dipping sauce.

Pastrami can be substituted for corned beef for a slightly different flavor profile.

For a lighter option, air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.


Serving Ideas & Occasions

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are ideal for game day spreads, holiday appetizer platters, and casual gatherings. Their bite-sized format makes them easy to serve and enjoy.

Pair them with other finger foods like sliders, stuffed mushrooms, or cheese boards for a balanced appetizer table.

They also make a fun addition to a St. Patrick’s Day menu, offering classic deli flavors in a creative presentation.


Nutritional & Health Notes

These appetizer bites provide protein from corned beef and cheese, along with fats that contribute to their rich flavor. Frying adds additional fat, though baking or air frying can reduce overall oil content.

Sauerkraut offers beneficial probiotics and acidity that help balance richness.

As with most fried appetizers, enjoying them in moderate portions helps maintain balance within a varied diet.


FAQ

1. Can I make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce ahead of time?
Yes. You can shape and bread the balls in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

2. Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze breaded, uncooked balls on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Fry or bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.

3. Why are my balls falling apart during frying?
The mixture may not have been chilled long enough, or the sauerkraut may have contained excess moisture. Ensure both steps are handled carefully.

4. What oil works best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.

5. Can I make them without cream cheese?
Cream cheese helps bind the mixture. Without it, the filling may not hold together as well.

6. How spicy is the dipping sauce?
The heat level is mild and adjustable. Add more or less horseradish and hot sauce to suit your preference.

7. How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooked balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.

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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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Crispy fried bites filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, served with a creamy spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.

  • Author: Maya Lawson
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 balls 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups finely chopped corned beef
1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
Hot sauce to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard.
  2. Chill mixture 30 minutes.
  3. Roll into small balls.
  4. Coat in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat oil to 350°F.
  6. Fry balls 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Mix dipping sauce ingredients.
  9. Serve warm with sauce.

Notes

Drain sauerkraut thoroughly. Chill mixture before shaping. Bake or air fry for a lighter option.

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