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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce


  • Author: Emily Carter
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 balls

Description

Golden, crispy, and packed with melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and savory corned beef, these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce turn the classic deli sandwich into an irresistible snack. Perfect for quick appetizers, game-day bites, or party platters, they offer bold flavor in every bite. The creamy, zesty sauce with a touch of heat takes them to the next level. This easy recipe is ideal for those looking for quick snack ideas, fun dinner ideas, or a unique twist on comfort food classics.


Ingredients

2 cups cooked corned beef, finely chopped

1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained and patted dry

1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 tsp Dijon mustard

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs, beaten

2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil, for frying

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp ketchup

1 tbsp sweet pickle relish

1 tsp hot sauce

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until combined.

2. Shape into golf ball-sized rounds, place on a baking sheet, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

3. Prepare breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat balls in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb step for extra crunch.

4. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy pot.

5. Fry balls in small batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

6. For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill until serving.

7. Serve Reuben balls hot with dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Drain sauerkraut well to avoid sogginess.

Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese for the best melt.

Chill the balls before frying to help them hold their shape.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 balls + 1 tbsp sauce
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Reuben balls, appetizer, snack, party food, fried appetizer, spicy sauce, deli flavors