Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Crispy, cheesy, snackable perfection — Reuben-style!

All the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich packed into irresistible bite-sized balls! These golden-fried snacks are crispy on the outside and savory inside, bursting with corned beef, Swiss, and tangy sauerkraut. Paired with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you want a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: About 20–24 Reuben Balls

Ingredients

For the Reuben Balls:

• 1½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

2. Shape into Balls

Scoop the chilled mixture into 1-inch portions and roll into balls.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and return to the refrigerator while you prep the breading.

3. Bread the Reuben Balls

Set up a dredging station with three bowls:

• Flour
• Beaten eggs
• Breadcrumbs

Roll each ball in flour, dip into the egg, and coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Set aside.

4. Fry Until Golden

In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.

5. Make the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level if desired.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Arrange warm Reuben Balls on a serving platter with a bowl of dipping sauce. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Crunch: Mix crushed rye crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs into the coating.
• Reheating: Bake leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to crisp up.
• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze fully cooked Reuben Balls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12–15 minutes.
• Add More Heat: Add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the dipping sauce for a spicier kick.

Make-Ahead Tip:

You can shape and bread the Reuben Balls a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Fry right before serving for best results.

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