Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzling sound of corned beef crisping in hot oil fills the kitchen as I gear up to create a dish that’s not only delicious but playful, too. Meet my Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce—your new go-to appetizer for gatherings and cozy nights alike. Imagine taking those beloved Reuben sandwich flavors and transforming them into bite-sized, crispy delights that will keep everyone reaching for more. Not only are these Reuben Balls the ultimate comfort food, but they also come together in a flash, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute parties. Plus, whether you fry or bake them, each ball remains packed with savory goodness and is sure to impress. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together! Why Are Reuben Balls a Must-Try? Crispy Delight: These Reuben Balls boast a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts with the melty, flavorful filling inside. Savory Combination: Filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, every bite delivers a taste of the iconic sandwich you love, all wrapped up in an unexpected format. Versatile Serving: Whether served as appetizers at game day or a cozy family night, they’re sure to wow your guests and spark conversations about their deliciousness! Quick and Easy: With simple prep and cooking methods, like frying or baking, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for those busy evenings. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These crispy bites are a fantastic way to gather everyone around, ensuring that everyone leaves happy and satisfied! For a different take on classic flavors, try these Glazed Chicken with Vegetables or indulge in our Decadent Carrot Cake Bars. Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Ingredients For the Reuben Balls Corned Beef – Use cooked corned beef, either homemade or from the deli, for that savory flavor. Sauerkraut – Make sure it’s drained and chopped to add tang and moisture without excess liquid. Swiss Cheese – Alternately, use Provolone or Gruyère for a creamy texture that melts beautifully. Cream Cheese – This adds richness and binds all the flavors together nicely. Rye Breadcrumbs – Essential for that classic Reuben taste; if you’re in a pinch, grind toasted rye bread into crumbs. Egg – Helps to hold everything together and creates a crispy coating when frying. Flour – Ensures the coating sticks well; you can mix in some spices for extra flavor. Oil For Frying – Choose vegetable or canola oil, ideal for getting that crisp exterior. For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce Mayonnaise – This creamy base gives the sauce its rich texture and flavor. Ketchup – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang that balances the heat. Dijon Mustard – Brings depth and an understated level of spice to the sauce. Hot Sauce – Adjust the amount to your liking for the perfect kick. Sweet Pickle Relish – Offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that rounds out the sauce. Now that you’ve got everything you need, get ready to mix, roll, and indulge in these delicious Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Magic Step 1: Prepare the Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained and chopped sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, and softened cream cheese using a spatula. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and sticky, ensuring an even distribution. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, allowing the mixture to firm up for easier handling during rolling. Step 2: Shape the Balls After chilling, remove the mixture from the fridge and scoop about a tablespoon of it into your hands. Roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and ensure they hold their shape well. You should aim to create 18 to 22 balls that are uniform in size. Place these Reuben Balls on a parchment-lined baking tray as you work through the mixture for an organized assembly line. Step 3: Freeze for Firmness Once all the balls are shaped, transfer them to the freezer and allow them to set for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring that the Reuben Balls maintain their shape while frying, preventing them from becoming misshapen or falling apart in hot oil. Use this time to get your frying station prepared by gathering necessary equipment and ingredients. Step 4: Dredge the Balls Set up a dredging station with three separate shallow bowls: one filled with flour, another containing beaten eggs, and a third with rye breadcrumbs. Take each cold Reuben Ball from the freezer and first roll it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, fully coating it, followed by a roll in the rye breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even, crispy coating. (For extra crunch, consider double-dipping in the egg and breadcrumbs.) Step 5: Fry the Balls In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add small batches of the prepared Reuben Balls to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become a beautiful golden brown on all sides. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the balls and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce While the Reuben Balls are frying, prepare the Spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and sweet pickle relish. Taste the mixture and adjust the hot sauce based on your desired spice level. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 7: Serve the Appetizers Once the Reuben Balls are golden and crispy, plate them warm alongside the Spicy Thousand Island sauce for dipping. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This fun, bite-sized dish is now ready to delight your guests, bringing the classic flavors of the Reuben sandwich into every crispy, savory bite! Storage Tips for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Fridge: Keep cooled Reuben Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this ensures they remain fresh and flavorful. Freezer: Uncooked, breaded balls can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Reheating: To reheat leftover fried Reuben Balls, place them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy, making them as delightful as when freshly made. Make Ahead Options These Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! You can prepare the filling and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese, then roll them into balls, and refrigerate until ready to fry. It’s best to freeze the formed balls for about 15 minutes before frying to help them keep their shape and stay crispy. When you’re ready to serve, just dredge them in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then fry until golden brown for that delightful crunch and rich flavor that everyone loves! Expert Tips for Reuben Balls Chill for Shape: Make sure to chill the mixture before rolling into balls and freeze them for 15 minutes to keep their shape during frying. Double Dipping: For an extra crispy coating, double dip each ball in the egg and breadcrumbs. It adds a delightful crunch to your Reuben Balls! Baking Option: If you prefer baking, cook the Reuben Balls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through; they’ll be less crispy but just as tasty. Hot Sauce Control: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the dipping sauce according to your spice preference; a little goes a long way! Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corned beef and homemade sauerkraut enhances flavor; consider making these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island from scratch for a personal touch. What to Serve with Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Magic? Elevate your appetizer experience with delightful pairings that balance the zesty flavors of these crispy bites. Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory Reuben Balls, enhancing your palate with every bite. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness provides a rich, flavorful companion, perfect for soaking up the spicy dipping sauce. Potato Chips: Crispy potato chips add a fun, salty crunch, making for a simple yet delectable snack alongside your Reuben Balls. Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries complements the bold flavors of the Reuben Balls, giving a delightful textural variety. Pickle Platter: A colorful assortment of pickles adds a tangy crunch, enhancing the overall party vibes and echoing the flavors of the dish. Beer or Cider: A crisp lager or a lightly fruity cider can balance the richness, creating a harmonious pairing that guests will truly enjoy. Pepper Jack Queso Dip: For a creamy, spicy twist, serve up some warm queso. Its gooey texture and flavor will keep everyone coming back for more! Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Variations Feel free to get creative with your Reuben Balls and make them truly your own with these delightful twists! Pastrami Swap: Substitute corned beef with pastrami for a unique, smoky flavor profile that still captures the essence of a Reuben. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or spicy Pepper Jack to add new depth and excitement. Pickle Punch: Chop up some dill pickles and mix them into the filling for an extra burst of tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Baking Variation: Prefer a lighter option? Bake your Reuben Balls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes. They won’t have the same crunch, but they are still deliciously satisfying. Herb Infusion: Toss in a handful of freshly chopped herbs like dill or chives to the mixture for a vibrant, fresh taste that elevates these tasty bites. Heat It Up: Add a couple of teaspoons of diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that your adventurous eaters will love. Caprese Style: For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella instead of traditional ingredients for an Italian-inspired flavor explosion. Vegetarian Option: Swap in shredded jackfruit or finely chopped mushrooms in place of meat for a lighter, plant-based alternative that still delivers on flavor. These tempting variations take your Reuben Balls on a culinary adventure—pair them with the Sweet Spicy Hot Honey Salmon Bites for a perfect spread at your next gathering! Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Recipe FAQs What type of corned beef should I use? Absolutely! You can use either homemade corned beef or pre-cooked corned beef from your local deli. For the best flavor, I recommend using freshly cooked corned beef that’s been allowed to cool for easier handling in the mixture. How do I store the Reuben Balls after cooking? Very good question! Once cooled, store the Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy—just like they were fresh out of the fryer! Can I freeze the uncooked Reuben Balls? Of course! Uncooked and breaded Reuben Balls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time for that perfectly crispy finish. What if my Reuben Balls fall apart while frying? Oh no! If your Reuben Balls are falling apart, it’s often due to them being too warm or not firm enough. Ensure you chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes and freeze the balls for 15 minutes before frying. This helps them maintain their shape. You can also double dip them in the egg wash and breadcrumbs for extra adhesion. Are these Reuben Balls suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, they can be made gluten-free! Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the rye breadcrumbs and ensure your corned beef, kraut, and sauces are gluten-free. You can enjoy the delicious flavors of the Reuben without compromising your dietary needs. Can pets safely eat Reuben Balls? I wouldn’t recommend it. While some ingredients, like the corned beef, may be safe in small amounts, the seasonings, sauerkraut, and sauces could upset their stomachs. It’s best to stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends! Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Magic Enjoy these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island sauce—delicious appetizers that bring classic flavors in a fun, crispy bite! Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 20 ballsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Reuben Balls2 cups chopped cooked corned beef homemade or from the deli1 cup drained and chopped sauerkraut1 cup diced Swiss cheese or Provolone or Gruyère4 oz cream cheese softened1 cup rye breadcrumbs or ground toasted rye bread1 large egg1/2 cup flour for dredgingOil for frying vegetable or canola oil for frying the ballsFor the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce1/2 cup mayonnaise2 tbsp ketchup1 tbsp Dijon mustardto taste hot sauce2 tbsp sweet pickle relish Equipment mixing bowlParchment-lined baking trayDeep panslotted spoonSmall mixing bowl Method Prep InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained and chopped sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well blended and sticky, then cover and chill for 30 minutes.Remove the mixture from the fridge, scoop about a tablespoon into your hands, and roll into small balls. Aim for 18 to 22 uniform balls.Transfer the rolled balls to the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and rye breadcrumbs. Roll each cold ball in flour, coat in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan and fry the balls in small batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients, adjusting hot sauce to taste. Chill until ready to serve.Serve the warm Reuben Balls with the Spicy Thousand Island sauce for dipping, garnished with parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesChill the mixture before rolling, and consider double-dipping each ball for extra crispiness. Baked option available at 400°F for 15-18 minutes. 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