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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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Reuben Balls are a bite-sized twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and coated in crispy breadcrumbs, these fried treats are served with a zesty, spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun appetizer!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Reuben Balls:

  • 1 cup (150 g) cooked corned beef, finely chopped
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) sauerkraut, well-drained and chopped
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Make the Reuben Balls:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  2. Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Coat each ball in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then roll in breadcrumbs to coat completely.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve:

  • Arrange the Reuben Balls on a platter with the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce on the side. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a baked option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded balls on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
  • Leftover Reuben Balls can be reheated in an air fryer for a crisp texture.
  • Adjust the spice level of the sauce by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce and paprika.