Description
If you’re looking for a bold appetizer that turns heads and satisfies cravings, these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are for you. Packed with tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and a crispy golden coating, they transform the classic deli sandwich into an irresistible finger food. Pair that with a zesty homemade sauce, and you’ve got a game-day winner, a party staple, or a quick dinner idea that everyone will love. Whether you’re seeking easy appetizers, snack ideas, or a fun twist on traditional flavors, this easy recipe checks every box.
Ingredients
1 cup chopped cooked corned beef
1 cup drained sauerkraut
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
4 ounces cream cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
1 large egg, beaten
Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix until cohesive.
2. Shape the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Chill for 15–20 minutes if too soft.
3. Set up breading stations with one bowl of beaten egg and another with breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each ball in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat for a double layer.
5. Refrigerate breaded balls for 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or fryer. Fry balls in small batches for 3–4 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.
7. For the sauce: whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, and paprika until smooth. Adjust heat to taste.
8. Serve hot Reuben Balls with a side of spicy Thousand Island sauce for dipping.
Notes
Make sure your sauerkraut is squeezed completely dry to avoid soggy balls.
Chilling the balls before frying helps them hold their shape and cook evenly.
You can freeze the breaded balls and fry directly from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes to cook time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Reuben balls, fried appetizers, game day snacks, spicy dipping sauce, easy recipe