Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a savory twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. These crispy, golden-fried bites are packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and seasonings, making them perfect for parties, game days, or as an irresistible appetizer. Paired with a zesty and spicy Thousand Island sauce, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavors: All the delicious elements of a Reuben in bite-sized form.
• Perfect for Sharing: A great appetizer or snack for gatherings.
• Crispy and Golden: Fried to perfection for a crunchy exterior.
• Zesty Dipping Sauce: The spicy Thousand Island sauce takes the flavor to the next level.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Reuben Balls:

• Corned beef, finely chopped
• Swiss cheese, shredded
• Sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
• Cream cheese, softened
• Dijon mustard
• Rye breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs with caraway seeds)
• Eggs, beaten
• Flour
• Oil for frying

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Pickle relish
• Hot sauce
• Paprika
• Garlic powder

Directions

Reuben Balls:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Bread the Balls: Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, paprika, and garlic powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 20-24 Reuben balls
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the breaded balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
• Spicier Sauce: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dipping sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cheese Substitution: Replace Swiss cheese with Gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Reuben balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be fried directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
• Reheating: Reheat cooked balls in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the balls and freeze them until ready to fry or bake.

2. What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal for frying.

3. Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?

Yes, pastrami makes a delicious substitute.

4. How can I keep them warm for a party?

Keep them in a warm oven (200°F/90°C) until ready to serve.

5. Can I air-fry these?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

6. What if my mixture is too wet to roll?

Add a little more cream cheese or breadcrumbs to firm up the mixture.

7. Can I use a different dipping sauce?

Sure! Ranch dressing or honey mustard also pair well.

8. Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Simply omit or reduce the hot sauce for a milder version.

9. What kind of sauerkraut works best?

Use a high-quality, well-drained sauerkraut to prevent excess moisture.

10. How do I make them vegetarian?

Replace the corned beef with finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based deli slices.

Conclusion

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a flavor-packed appetizer that delivers all the goodness of a classic Reuben in a fun, portable form. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these delicious bites are sure to impress your guests. Pair with the zesty dipping sauce for a snack that’s simply irresistible! Try them today for your next gathering or game day celebration!

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