Introduction
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. These crispy, golden bites are filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, paired perfectly with a zesty dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they’re guaranteed to impress your guests!
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 cup cooked and shredded corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Tips
- Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Chill the balls before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Reuben Balls
- In a large bowl, mix the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Bread the Reuben Balls
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each ball in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Fry the Reuben Balls
- 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 and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Reuben Balls warm with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce on the side.
Description
Reuben Balls are crispy on the outside with a creamy, savory filling that’s packed with classic Reuben flavors. Paired with a tangy and spicy Thousand Island sauce, they’re a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Nutritional Information (Per ball, based on 24 balls)
- Calories: 100
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness. - Can I freeze Reuben Balls?
Absolutely. Freeze them after breading and fry directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.
Recommendations
- Pair with a cold beer or soda for a perfect game-day snack.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dipping sauce for a tangy twist.
- Make them ahead of time and fry just before serving for maximum freshness.
Conclusion
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are an irresistible appetizer that’s full of flavor and fun to eat. Easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and delight your guests with these crispy, savory bites!