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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: About 20–24 balls

Description

These golden, crispy Reuben Balls capture all the bold, comforting flavors of the classic deli sandwich in a perfect handheld bite. Filled with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, then coated and fried (or baked) to perfection, they’re paired with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just snacking with style.


Ingredients

For the Reuben Balls:

  • 1 ½ cups corned beef, finely chopped
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, mustard, garlic powder, and pepper until well combined. Chill for 30 minutes.
  2. Scoop and roll mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
  3. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs. Optional: double coat for extra crunch.
  5. Freeze breaded balls for 20–30 minutes.
  6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  7. For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying with oil.
  8. Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
  9. Serve Reuben Balls hot with dipping sauce on the side.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes