Name: Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef; 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry; 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended); Vegetable oil, for frying; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon pickle relish; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

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These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a must-try snack that perfectly captures the essence of a classic Reuben sandwich in a fun and bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, planning a party, or simply looking for a tasty treat, these crispy delights are sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures, along with the zesty dipping sauce, makes them irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with the savory taste of corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious snacks in no time.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these Reuben Balls fit right in.
Crowd-pleaser: Their unique flavor profile will satisfy both Reuben lovers and newcomers alike.
Versatile serving options: Serve them as an appetizer or pair them with a salad for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Reuben Balls, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Frying pan or deep fryer
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures even cooking and crispiness of your Reuben balls.
Whisk: Ideal for achieving a smooth consistency when preparing the dipping sauce.

Ingredients

These ingredients will help you create delicious Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Corned beef
Sauerkraut
Swiss cheese
Cream cheese
Dijon mustard

Mix until well combined. Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm it up.

Step 2: Form the Balls

After chilling:
1. Scoop out portions of the mixture using a spoon.
2. Roll each portion into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the formed balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Prepare three bowls:
1. One with flour,
2. One with beaten eggs,
3. One with breadcrumbs.

Coat each ball in flour first, then dip it into beaten eggs, followed by rolling it in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Balls

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in small batches for 2–3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels after frying.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Pickle relish
Hot sauce
Smoked paprika

Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Arrange your freshly made Reuben Balls on a platter alongside the spicy dipping sauce. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben Balls are not just a snack; they are a delightful addition to any gathering. Serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate their flavor and presentation.

Pair with Beer

Craft beers like pale ales or stouts complement the rich flavors of the Reuben Balls perfectly.

Include Fresh Veggies

A platter of fresh veggies such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the fried goodness.

Offer a Variety of Dips

Besides the Spicy Thousand Island sauce, offering other dips like ranch or garlic aioli provides guests with options that cater to different tastes.

Serve on a Charcuterie Board

Incorporate Reuben Balls into a larger charcuterie board filled with cured meats, cheeses, and pickles for a visually stunning display.

Use Mini Skewers

Presenting the Reuben Balls on mini skewers makes them easy to grab and eat while mingling at parties.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds color and a hint of freshness to your serving platter.

How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Perfecting your Reuben Balls can make all the difference when it comes to flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Chill Your Mixture: Allowing the mixture to chill for 30 minutes helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs, enhancing the crunchiness of your balls.
Control Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying; this helps achieve that perfect golden color without absorbing too much oil.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches; overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy balls instead of crispy ones.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust spices in both the filling and dipping sauce according to your taste preference for added flavor.
Serve Immediately: These balls are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the fryer for maximum crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

To create a well-rounded meal or party spread, consider serving these delicious Reuben Balls alongside complementary side dishes.

Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of the Reuben Balls.
Potato Chips: Crispy potato chips provide an easy-to-prepare side that brings extra crunch and saltiness to your plate.
Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles offers a sour contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience of your appetizers.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad serves as a hearty companion that balances out the savory bites.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs complement the flavors of Reuben Balls beautifully.
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness from sweet potato fries contrasts nicely with savory flavors while adding an appealing color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Not chilling the mixture: Failing to refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes can lead to mushy balls. Chilling helps them hold their shape while frying.
Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many balls at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.
Skipping the draining step: Not letting the fried balls drain on paper towels can result in greasy Reuben Balls. Always drain them after frying for a better bite.
Inaccurate oil temperature: If your oil is too hot or too cold, the balls may burn or not cook through. Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (175°C).
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The spicy dipping sauce should be tailored to your taste. Adjust hot sauce and paprika based on your spice preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Freeze uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Quickly re-fry in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce.

Can I make these Reuben Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to fry.

What can I serve with Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?

These delicious bites pair well with pickles, potato chips, or even a side salad for a complete snack experience.

How do I customize the dipping sauce?

Feel free to add ingredients like garlic powder or herbs to the spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Are there any vegetarian options?

You could substitute corned beef with shredded jackfruit or mushrooms mixed with cheese and sauerkraut for a vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are not only tasty but also versatile. Perfect for any gathering or as game-day snacks, they offer a delightful twist on classic flavors. Don’t hesitate to customize them by adding your favorite spices or ingredients!

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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, offering all the savory flavors in a fun, bite-sized format. These crispy snack bites feature a delectable mix of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all perfectly fried to golden perfection. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce, they make for an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or casual gatherings. Quick and easy to prepare, these Reuben Balls are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix well and chill for 30 minutes.
Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and refrigerate again.
Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour first, then dip in eggs, followed by breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
For the dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American