Reuben Balls are bite-sized, golden delights inspired by the beloved flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich. Paired with a Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, they bring crispy, creamy, and tangy perfection to your appetizer table.
The Perfect Appetizer: A Creative Twist on a Classic
The Reuben sandwich, a deli staple loved for its balance of savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and rye bread, is a masterpiece on its own. But what if we took that timeless flavor profile and turned it into a sharable, crispy snack? Enter Reuben Balls—a unique way to enjoy the essence of the sandwich in a convenient and portable format.
These golden-fried or baked bites pack all the elements of a classic Reuben into one irresistible morsel. Add a zingy, spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, and you’ve got a recipe that will elevate any gathering, whether it’s game night, a holiday celebration, or a casual family get-together.
Table of Contents
Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need
Reuben Balls:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corned beef (chopped) | 1 cup | Deli-sliced or leftovers work well. |
| Swiss cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | Creamy and essential for the Reuben flavor. |
| Sauerkraut (drained) | 1 cup | Press out moisture for best results. |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 oz | Acts as a binder for the filling. |
| Rye breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Adds an authentic Reuben flavor. |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup | For dredging the balls. |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 large | Helps breadcrumbs adhere. |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Ensures a crunchy texture. |
| Vegetable oil | For frying | Neutral oils like canola or peanut are ideal. |
Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | The creamy base of the sauce. |
| Ketchup | 3 tbsp | Adds sweetness and tang. |
| Hot sauce | 1-2 tsp | Adjust to taste for desired spice. |
| Pickle relish | 2 tbsp | Brings texture and tanginess. |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | Adds depth and umami. |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | A touch of smoky warmth. |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Complements the savory flavors |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, and softened cream cheese.
- Tip: Thoroughly drain and pat dry the sauerkraut to prevent soggy filling.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined and shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should have approximately 18-20 balls.
- Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 20-30 minutes. This step helps them hold their shape during the coating process.
Step 2: Coat the Reuben Balls
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:\n – Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.\n – Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.\n – Bowl 3: A mixture of rye breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs.\n2. Take each chilled ball, roll it in the flour, dip it in the egg, and coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres.
Step 3: Fry the Reuben Balls
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).\n – Safety Tip: Maintain the oil temperature with a thermometer to avoid uneven cooking.\n2. Fry the coated balls in small batches to prevent crowding, cooking for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.\n3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and garlic powder.\n2. Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level by adding more hot sauce if desired.\n3. Cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve. Chilling enhances the flavors and creates a cohesive dipping experience.
Tips for Perfect Reuben Balls
- Chill Before Frying: Freezing the balls for at least 20 minutes ensures they stay intact during frying.\n2. Control Moisture: Properly draining the sauerkraut is essential to avoid a soggy filling.\n3. Consistent Coating: Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the balls for a crunchy, golden crust.\n4. Experiment with Seasoning: Add spices like caraway seeds to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra rye flavor punch.\n5. Healthier Options: Bake or air fry instead of deep frying for a lighter version.
Variations to Try
- Pastrami Balls: Swap corned beef for pastrami for a smoky twist.\n- Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gruyère or sharp cheddar for added depth.\n- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to cater to dietary needs.\n- Vegetarian Version: Substitute corned beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange the Reuben Balls on a large platter with the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce in a decorative bowl for dipping.\n- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant presentation.\n- Pair with complementary appetizers like mini sandwiches, dill pickles, or a charcuterie board for a full spread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |\n|—————-|——————|\n| Calories | 220 |\n| Total Fat | 14g |\n| Saturated Fat | 6g |\n| Carbohydrates | 15g |\n| Protein | 9g |\n| Sodium | 480mg |\n\n—
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Reuben Balls in advance?\nYes, you can freeze the uncooked balls in an airtight container for up to a month. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
What if I don’t have rye breadcrumbs?\nYou can add a teaspoon of caraway seeds to plain breadcrumbs to replicate the rye flavor.
Can I reheat leftovers?\nReheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the coating soggy.
Can I use store-bought Thousand Island dressing?\nAbsolutely! Enhance it with a bit of hot sauce and paprika for an extra kick.
What oil is best for frying?\nNeutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are best for frying due to their high smoke points.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Appetizer Experience
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce offer a delightful way to enjoy the classic Reuben sandwich flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form. Whether fried or baked, these savory, tangy, and crispy balls are a guaranteed hit for any occasion.
Perfect as a party appetizer or a creative addition to your dinner table, they combine nostalgia with a modern twist. Pair them with the spicy dipping sauce to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Ready to get cooking? Dive into this recipe, and let your taste buds thank you!
Happy cooking and sharing!