As the aroma of frying goodies fills the kitchen, I find myself reminiscing about the comforting charm of classic comfort food. If you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches, then get ready for a mouthwatering twist with these Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce! Each bite is packed with melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef, delivering the same beloved flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for gatherings or a casual movie night, these tasty treats are not only a crowd-pleaser but are also a great way to use up leftover corned beef. And trust me, the addition of a spicy dipping sauce elevates this dish to a delightful experience you won’t forget! Curious about how to make these irresistible bites? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Reuben Balls a Must-Try?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These Crispy Reuben Balls are sure to impress guests at any gathering or game day. Fun to Eat: Bite-sized and easy to handle, they make for a perfect party snack. Flavor Explosion: The combination of Swiss cheese and zesty sauerkraut creates a unique taste sensation. Quick to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this appetizer ready in no time! For even more exciting flavor experiences, consider trying them with a side of Grilled Chicken Sauce or incorporate them into a delicious platter paired with Roll Salad Spicy. Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap corned beef for pastrami or experiment with different cheeses.
Reuben Balls Ingredients
For the Filling
• Corned Beef – Provides savory flavor and protein; use leftover corned beef or deli slices for convenience.
• Sauerkraut – Adds tanginess and moisture; rinse and drain before use to reduce excess acidity.
• Shredded Swiss Cheese – Contributes creaminess and classic Reuben flavor; substitute with Gruyère for a different melting quality.
• Cream Cheese – Offers a smooth texture and richness; can replace with ricotta for a lighter option.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds depth and zing to the filling; substitute with yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
For the Breading
• Flour – Acts as a binding agent in the breading process.
• Eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs to the balls during breading.
• Breadcrumbs – Creates the crispy outer layer; use panko for extra crunch.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – For frying until golden brown; can substitute with canola or peanut oil.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Base for the dipping sauce that provides creaminess.
• Ketchup – Adds sweetness and tanginess to the sauce.
• Pickle Relish – Contributes sweetness and texture; choose dill for a sharper taste.
• Hot Sauce – Provides heat to the dipping sauce; adjust to taste.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor; can be substituted with regular paprika for less heat.
• Chopped Parsley – For garnish, providing a fresh finishing touch.
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delightful way to enjoy classic flavors in a fun new format!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Use a fork to mix until everything is well combined and cohesive. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up for easier handling.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Once chilled, remove the filling mixture from the fridge. Use your hands to scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are tight and well-formed. Place each ball on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for another 15-20 minutes to help the balls hold their shape while you prepare the breading.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Prepare a breading station by placing three shallow bowls in a row. In the first bowl, add some all-purpose flour; in the second, whisk together a couple of eggs until fully blended; and in the third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs for that delightful crispy texture. Having everything ready at hand will make breading the Reuben Balls quick and easy.
Step 4: Bread the Balls
Take each chilled ball and roll it in the flour, coating it evenly. Next, dip the floured ball into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before transferring it to the panko breadcrumbs. Coat the ball thoroughly in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick. Repeat this process for all the formed balls until they are all well coated.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded Reuben Balls in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy all over, turning occasionally for even cooking. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Spicy Dipping Sauce
While the Reuben Balls are draining, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick. This creamy and tangy sauce is the perfect complement to your warm Reuben Balls, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the crispy Reuben Balls on a serving platter, placing the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce in the center for easy access. Optionally, garnish the platter with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. These delightful Reuben Balls are best served warm, offering a pop of flavor with every bite and making them a perfect party appetizer or game-day snack!
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Balls
Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked Reuben Balls for up to a month. Shape them, place on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat cooked Reuben Balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re heated through and crispy again.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and form the balls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry for a quick and easy appetizer.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy days! You can form the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying, just make sure they’re covered or placed in an airtight container to maintain their shape and prevent drying out. If you’re feeling extra prepared, you can freeze the uncooked balls for up to a month; simply fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. When ready to serve, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown. You’ll enjoy delicious, freshly made Reuben Balls with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
The delightful warmth and crispy texture of these Reuben Balls invite a variety of delicious accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.
Crunchy Pickles: The briny crunch of dill pickles provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Reuben Balls. They also enhance the overall flavor profile by adding tanginess.
Golden French Fries: Crispy fries offer a satisfying, hearty side that complements the flavors of the Reuben Balls. Pair with various dipping sauces for a fun twist!
Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch and creamy texture, balancing the heaviness of the fried balls while bringing brightness with its tangy dressing.
Savory Potato Chips: Serve crunchy potato chips alongside for a fun, casual snack vibe. Their salty crunch pairs well with the rich taste of the Reuben Balls.
Zesty Garden Salad: A mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette provides a nourishing counterpoint to the heaviness of the fried appetizer. Fresh veggies add a delightful crunch!
Pint of Beer: For an adult beverage, a crisp lager or light ale enhances the comfort food experience. The carbonation cuts through the richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Smooth Creamy Dip: Incorporate a cold dip, like a simple yogurt garlic dip, to contrast with the warm Reuben Balls. This will add a refreshing element that keeps the palate lively.
Decadent Brownies: For dessert, serve fudgy brownies that bring a touch of sweetness to this savory meal. Their rich texture satisfies the craving for something sweet after indulging in crispy Reuben Balls.
Expert Tips for Reuben Balls
• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality corned beef for the best flavor. Avoid overly fatty cuts, as they can make the filling greasy.
• Chill the Filling: Don’t skip refrigerating the filling mixture; it helps the flavors meld and makes forming the balls much easier.
• Don’t Rush the Frying: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for even frying. Too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside cold.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the Reuben Balls in batches to prevent temperature drop in the oil, giving you that perfect crispy texture.
• Taste the Dipping Sauce: Be sure to adjust the heat of your spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce to your liking; it’s key to complementing the rich Reuben Balls flavor.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers promptly and reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness, ensuring you enjoy every bite!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Variations
Make these flavorful bites your own by exploring fun twists and substitutions that enhance the classic Reuben experience!
Pastrami Swap: Substitute corned beef for pastrami for a smoky twist on the traditional flavor profile. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a new favorite in your kitchen!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use non-dairy cream cheese and mayonnaise to whip up a dairy-free version. Enjoy comforting flavors without sacrificing your dietary needs.
Cheese Experimentation: Try different shredded cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, to create unique flavor combinations. Each cheese offers a distinct taste that can surprise your taste buds!
Crunchy Panko: For an extra crispy finish, swap standard breadcrumbs for panko. They’ll give your Reuben Balls a delightful crunch that will have everyone coming back for more.
Heat Levels: Add more hot sauce to the dipping sauce if you want a spicier kick. Adjust it according to your preferred heat level for a personalized touch.
Pickle Choice: Choose sweet or dill pickle relish based on your flavor preference. Each type will bring a different zing to your dipping sauce that complements the filling.
Air-Fried Option: For a lighter version, try air-frying instead of deep-frying. It’s a heart-healthy alternative that still delivers deliciously crispy bites.
Make-ahead Magic: Prepare and assemble the Reuben Balls ahead of time, refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry. This makes party prep a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with family and friends!
Get inspired by these variations, and don’t forget to check out how to incorporate these flavors into dishes like Jalapeno Popper Chicken for an exciting meal!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of corned beef should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality corned beef. You can use leftovers from a previous meal or grab some deli slices. Just avoid overly fatty cuts, as they can make the filling greasy.
How should I store leftover Reuben Balls?
Very easy! Store any leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze uncooked Reuben Balls?
Of course! You can freeze uncooked Reuben Balls for up to a month. Just shape them and place on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.
What if my mixture is too wet for forming balls?
If your mixture feels too wet, don’t worry! You can add a little more shredded cheese or a spoonful of breadcrumbs to help bind it together. Just mix in small amounts until it reaches a consistency that holds together well when formed into balls.
Can I use other kinds of cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! For varied flavor experiences, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère is a great substitute for a different melting quality, or you could use cheddar or pepper jack for added depth and spice.
Is the dipping sauce adjustable for spice?
Yes, indeed! I love to customize the heat in the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Start with a small amount of hot sauce and gradually add more to reach your desired spice level. Don’t forget to taste as you go to ensure it suits your palate perfectly!
Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three shallow bowls.
- Roll each chilled ball in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs. Ensure they are thoroughly coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika to make the dipping sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the crispy Reuben Balls warm with the spicy dipping sauce in the center. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley.