Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Looking for a bold, crispy, and irresistible appetizer that brings the flavor of a classic deli sandwich into party-perfect form? These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a total game-changer. Packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, these crunchy bites are a quick crowd-pleaser for game nights, holiday gatherings, or just easy dinner ideas. Paired with a spicy, creamy dipping sauce, they’re the ultimate comfort food and a standout among your favorite snack recipes. Whether you’re planning an indulgent weekend treat or looking for easy food ideas that deliver flavor fast, this easy recipe is guaranteed to win hearts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it simple for anyone to whip up.
• Packed with Flavor: Each bite bursts with savory goodness from the corned beef and Swiss cheese.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, game nights, or even casual family dinners.
• Crispy Texture: The frying process gives these balls a delightful crunch that complements their creamy inside.
• Great for Dipping: The spicy Thousand Island sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Reuben Balls requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Shallow bowls (3)
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Paper towels
• Fork or whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures even cooking and browning of the Reuben Balls.
• Fork or whisk: Helps in beating eggs smoothly for the coating process.

Ingredients

For the Reuben Balls

• 1 cup finely chopped cooked corned beef
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup rye breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, and softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

Refrigerate the filling for 20–30 minutes to firm it up. This step makes rolling easier.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture. Roll each portion into uniform balls using your hands. Aim for consistency in size.

Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls:
1. Fill one with all-purpose flour.
2. In the second bowl, add beaten eggs.
3. Combine rye breadcrumbs and panko in the third bowl.

Step 5: Coat the Balls

Roll each ball in flour first. Next, dip it in egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure breadcrumbs stick well.

Step 6: Frying Time!

Heat oil in your frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for about 3–4 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they’re golden brown on all sides.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

Once fried, transfer the balls to a paper towel-lined tray to drain any excess oil.

Step 8: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and garlic powder until smooth. This will be your spicy Thousand Island sauce.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

Chill the dipping sauce until you’re ready to serve it alongside your Reuben Balls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 10: Serve Hot!

Put those deliciously crispy Reuben Balls on a platter and serve them hot with your spicy dipping sauce on the side!

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

On a Platter

• Create a vibrant platter by arranging the Reuben Balls in a circle. Add small bowls of the spicy dipping sauce and sprinkle fresh parsley for a touch of color.

With Fresh Veggies

• Serve alongside crunchy vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. This adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the Reuben Balls.

In Mini Buns

• For a fun twist, place each ball in mini slider buns. Drizzle with extra sauce and add pickles for a delightful bite-sized sandwich.

As Party Skewers

• Thread each Reuben Ball onto skewers with cherry tomatoes or pickles for easy serving. This makes them portable and perfect for guests to grab while mingling.

With Potato Chips

• Pair these savory bites with crispy potato chips on the side. The combination of textures will provide an enjoyable snacking experience.

How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Perfecting your Reuben Balls is easy with a few handy tips that ensure great flavor and texture.

• Chill the Mixture: Allowing the filling to chill before forming balls helps them hold their shape during frying.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Opting for panko instead of regular breadcrumbs adds an extra crunch to the exterior.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at the right temperature (350°F / 175°C) ensures even cooking and prevents greasy balls.
• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, consider double-dipping your balls in egg and breadcrumbs.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix things up! Try adding different cheeses or spices to create unique flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Reuben Balls can elevate your meal further. Below are some excellent choices that complement their rich flavors.

1. Crispy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the fried balls.
2. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges bring heartiness and pair perfectly with the spicy dipping sauce.
3. Garden Salad: A light garden salad provides freshness and contrasts nicely against the savory flavors of the appetizer.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet twist, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile while keeping it comforting.
5. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, cheesy garlic breadsticks add a touch of indulgence and are great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms can elevate your appetizer spread while maintaining a similar comfort food vibe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to overlook some details when making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the refrigeration step: Not chilling the filling can make it hard to form the balls. Always refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
• Using wet sauerkraut: Excess moisture can make the mixture too loose. Make sure to drain and squeeze the sauerkraut dry before mixing.
• Neglecting breadcrumb coating: Failing to coat the balls properly can lead to uneven frying. Ensure each ball is well-coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
• Frying at incorrect temperatures: Frying at a temperature that’s too low will result in greasy balls. Maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) for crispy results.
• Forgetting the dipping sauce: Not preparing the spicy Thousand Island sauce can make the dish feel incomplete. Whip up this sauce while the balls chill.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the Reuben Balls to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

• Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• For cooked balls, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of corned beef?

You can easily substitute turkey for corned beef. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious!

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

These balls pair well with pickles, coleslaw, or even potato chips for a crunchy side.

How do I make these Reuben Balls vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, replace corned beef with finely chopped mushrooms and add extra cheese or plant-based alternatives.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and shape the balls in advance; just refrigerate or freeze them before frying.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any gathering. You can customize them by adding your favorite spices or using different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your guests!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Looking for a bold and crispy appetizer that transforms the classic deli flavor into an irresistible party treat? These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are here to delight your taste buds! Each crunchy bite is loaded with savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser for game nights, holiday celebrations, or casual family dinners. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce, these bites combine comfort food charm with an exciting twist. Easy to make and hard to resist, they will surely become your go-to snack for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 3/4 cup drained sauerkraut
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup rye breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix chicken, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and cream cheese until well combined.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
3. Form tablespoon-sized balls from the mixture.
4. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of rye and panko breadcrumbs.
5. Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
6. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the balls for about 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with the spicy Thousand Island sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 balls (135g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg