Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce – A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Delight
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are an exciting twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. These crispy, golden bites are packed with flavorful corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Each bite delivers the rich, savory flavors of a Reuben with a spectacular contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy, cheesy interior.
Paired with a zingy and spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, these Reuben Balls become the perfect appetizer or party snack. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for the ultimate comfort food, or simply craving a bite-sized version of your favorite deli sandwich, this recipe is a must-try. The slightly spicy sauce enhances every bite, adding just the right amount of heat and tanginess to the mix.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory, tangy, and slightly spicy with a smoky depth from the corned beef.
- Texture: Crisp and golden outside, soft and cheesy inside.
- Aroma: A combination of toasted breadcrumbs, melty cheese, and warm spices.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown, bite-sized balls with a creamy, colorful dipping sauce.
- Skill Level Needed: Intermediate – basic frying and mixing skills required.
- Special Equipment: Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet, food processor (optional).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Reuben Balls are an excellent way to enjoy all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a bite-sized snack. They offer a wonderful mix of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth cheesiness, making them an irresistible addition to any event. The homemade spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce adds an extra layer of creaminess and kick, enhancing the bold flavors inside each crispy orb.
This recipe is perfect for parties, game-day gatherings, or even an indulgent snack. The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. Plus, they can be made ahead and reheated, ensuring that you can serve them fresh and crispy when needed.
The blend of textures and flavors makes these Reuben Balls stand out. From the salty richness of the corned beef to the mild nuttiness of Swiss cheese and slight tang from sauerkraut, each component enhances the other. The breadcrumbs provide the essential crunchy contrast, and the sauce ties everything together with a punch of spice and creaminess.
Budget-conscious food lovers will appreciate that this dish transforms everyday deli ingredients into something gourmet-level. It’s also a great way to use leftover corned beef in a creative and delicious way.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Reuben sandwiches or just love crispy, cheesy appetizers, this dish delivers the ideal balance of crunch, flavor, and satisfaction. Pair it with a cold beer or a crisp glass of white wine, and you have the ultimate game-night snack.
The Recipe
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped corned beef
- 1 cup drained sauerkraut
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard.
- Mix well until evenly incorporated. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and smoked paprika.
- Coat each Reuben ball in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the balls in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded, for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
Recipe Notes
- For extra crispiness, double dip the balls in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
