Hey y’all! If you’re on the hunt for a snack that’s as scrumptious as it is versatile, you’ve hit the jackpot with these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in, these little bites are packed with flavor and oh-so-easy to make. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- These Reuben Balls are bite-sized morsels of joy, offering a delightful twist on the classic sandwich.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute appetizer.
- The spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce adds a zesty kick that keeps you coming back for more.
- Great for gatherings, they’re a crowd-pleaser you can whip up in no time.
- Reheats beautifully, perfect for leftovers if there are any!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions
Prepare the Reuben Balls
- In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
Bread the Balls
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the remaining panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
Fry to Perfection
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and paprika until smooth. [Learn more about mayo here](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/what-is-mayonnaise).
Notes
- If your mixture is too wet, add more panko breadcrumbs until the consistency is right.
- You can bake the balls instead of frying for a healthier option. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- For a gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko. [Read about gluten-free swaps here](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gluten-free-diet).
Variations
- Cheesy Reuben Balls: Add extra cheese or even some mozzarella for a gooey center.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace corned beef with roasted mushrooms for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños into the mix for those who love some heat.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Three bowls for breading station
- Large skillet
- Paper towels
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through. The dipping sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these Reuben Balls with a side of crispy fries or a fresh green salad. They also pair wonderfully with a cold beer or a light white wine.
Pro Tips
- Chill the mixture before forming balls to make shaping easier.
- Fry a test ball first to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F for even cooking. [Learn about using kitchen thermometers](https://www.seriouseats.com/how-to-use-a-thermometer-for-perfect-cooking).
FAQ
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
- What if I don’t have corned beef? You can substitute with deli roast beef or pastrami for a similar taste.
- What’s the best way to reheat Reuben Balls? Reheating in the oven helps maintain their crispy texture.