“`jsx
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce: Crispy, Flavor-Packed Bites
Difficulty
Intermediate
Prep Time
25 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
40 mins
Servings
6
If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, you’re going to love these crispy, bite-sized Reuben Balls. These delicious deep-fried morsels capture all the flavors of a traditional Reuben—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese—wrapped into a golden crust.
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as an afternoon treat, Reuben Balls bring together that rich, satisfying combination of flavors with a delightfully crunchy texture. They pair beautifully with a bold and spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, adding a tangy kick to every bite.
Best of all, these balls are easy to prep ahead of time, making them a convenient option for stress-free entertaining. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or a fun twist on lunch, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A savory mix of corned beef and Swiss cheese, balanced with the tang of sauerkraut and the boldness of spicy Thousand Island dressing.
- Texture: Crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Aroma: The scent of toasted rye bread, warm Swiss cheese, and seasoned beef filling your kitchen.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown, perfectly crispy spheres that are both rustic and elegant.
- Skill Level: Intermediate—requires basic frying technique and forming small balls for even cooking.
- Equipment: Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan, slotted spoon, mixing bowls, and paper towels for draining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Reuben Balls is how they take a beloved sandwich and transform it into a snackable, crispy delight. Instead of sitting down with a traditional sandwich, you get to enjoy the same flavors in a fun, shareable format.
Another reason to love these is their perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy coating adds an irresistible contrast to the creamy, cheesy center infused with savory corned beef. And when dipped in the spicy Thousand Island sauce? Pure bliss.
These are also great for meal prep—you can make them in advance, freeze them, and fry them up whenever you’re ready. That means effortless entertaining and snacking with minimal last-minute effort.
Pro Tips
- Ensure the mixture is cold before forming the balls—this helps them hold their shape.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier coating.
- Double-coat your breading for added crunch.
- Adjust spice levels in the Thousand Island dipping sauce to your preference.
- If you don’t have corned beef, pastrami is a great substitute.
- Use a thermometer to ensure your frying oil stays at the right temperature.
- Drain fried balls on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
The Recipe
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Ingredients
-
□ 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
□ 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
□ 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
□ 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
□ 1 cup rye breadcrumbs
□ 1 large egg
□ 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
□ 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
□ 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
□ 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
□ 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and caraway seeds.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Set up a breading station with flour, whisked egg, and combined rye and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil to 350°F and fry the balls in batches until golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with the prepared spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.
Recipe Notes
-
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze pre-formed balls and fry from frozen for effortless snacks.
• Add diced pickles for an extra tangy twist.
“`
