Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the iconic, savory flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a fun, bite-sized snack, you are in for a treat with these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. This recipe takes tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, rolls them into golden, crispy spheres, and pairs them with a creamy, spicy twist on the beloved Thousand Island dressing. The combination is nothing short of addictive, delivering a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy that will have you coming back for one more ball… or two!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these irresistible Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, you only need a handful of essential ingredients that brilliantly come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays its part, from adding creaminess and tang to providing crispiness and the perfect dip that ties it all together.

• Corned beef, chopped: Offers the classic, salty meatiness that’s the heart of any Reuben dish.
• Sauerkraut, drained and chopped: Brings that signature tang and slight crunch you expect from a Reuben.
• Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully inside, giving a creamy, nutty flavor.
• Cream cheese: Adds rich creaminess to bind the filling together effortlessly.
• Rye breadcrumbs: Give the outside a traditional, hearty texture with a touch of earthiness.
• Egg: Acts as a natural glue to keep the coating perfect when frying.
• Flour: Helps the dredging process for an even, crispy crust.
• Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to get that golden, crunchy finish.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.
• Ketchup: Adds subtle sweetness and tomato richness to the sauce.
• Dijon mustard: Brings a mild heat and depth of flavor to the dip.
• Hot sauce: Injects a spicy kick that elevates the dipping sauce beautifully.
• Sweet pickle relish: Adds bursts of tangy, sweet crunch that balances the sauce perfectly.

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Filling

Start by combining the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, and cream cheese in a bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until you have a creamy, well-incorporated mixture. This blend is crucial because it will give your Reuben Balls a perfect balance of tang, richness, and savory flavor. Pop this mixture into the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up—it makes handling so much easier later on!

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Once chilled, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. This size is perfect for snacking or appetizers—bite-sized and packed with flavor. Lay them out on a tray, and freeze for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during the next steps.

Step 3: Prepare for Dredging

Set up three bowls for coating: one with flour, another with a beaten egg, and the last with rye breadcrumbs. This classic dredging method ensures a perfectly crispy crust. Coat each ball first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs to cover all sides evenly.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large, heavy skillet. Fry the Reuben Balls in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil temperature and get that irresistible crunch. Once fried, drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

While frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and sweet pickle relish in a small bowl. This sauce is what really takes these Reuben Balls over the edge, adding a creamy, tangy, and spicy complement to the rich filling. Chill the sauce until you’re ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve the golden, crispy Reuben Balls with a generous side of the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. The contrast between the crunchy exterior, the tender, flavorful inside, and the zesty sauce will wow your taste buds.

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or finely chopped chives for a beautiful pop of green that brightens up the plate and adds just a hint of fresh flavor. A few dill pickle slices on the side also bring that extra nod to the classic Reuben experience.

Side Dishes

These Reuben Balls shine as a standalone appetizer but also pair wonderfully with crisp coleslaw, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette, or even some kettle-cooked potato chips to keep that salty, crunchy theme going. You can’t go wrong with a cold beer too, if you’re so inclined!

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your Reuben Balls on a wooden board with mini forks or toothpicks. You can even pop each ball into small slider buns with a bit of sauerkraut and sauce for a fun party snack. Another idea is to offer an array of dips alongside the spicy Thousand Island, like horseradish cream or a smoky aioli, to delight your guests with variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days without losing their flavor or texture, making them perfect for quick snacks or lunches the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked, breaded Reuben Balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. This method keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, just add a minute or two to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the leftover Reuben Balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different cheese in Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?

While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts perfectly, you can experiment with Gruyère or even Mozzarella for a milder twist. Just keep in mind the flavor balance might change slightly.

Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the coated balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for even browning. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious!

How spicy is the dipping sauce?

The Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce has just a gentle kick from the hot sauce, balanced by the sweetness of the ketchup and relish. You can adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less hot sauce.

Can I make the Reuben Balls vegetarian-friendly?

For a vegetarian option, substitute the corned beef with diced cooked mushrooms or a plant-based deli slice, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a similar texture and tangy flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

Serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks and bowls of the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Adding a variety of dipping sauces and garnishes can make your platter even more inviting and fun.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a total crowd-pleaser that turns a favorite sandwich into a fun, finger-friendly delight. Whether you’re feeding friends at a party, looking for a tasty appetizer, or just craving a comforting snack, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy those classic Reuben flavors!

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