Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the ultimate bite-sized snack, combining all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in a crispy, cheesy package. Perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion, these golden-fried delights are paired with a creamy, zesty dipping sauce that elevates every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of corned beef and Swiss cheese wrapped in crispy breadcrumbs.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, these Reuben balls come together quickly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a casual gathering, these bites will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a meal.
- Unique Dipping Sauce: The spicy Thousand Island sauce adds a zesty kick that complements each ball perfectly.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Skillet or saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before forming the balls.
- Skillet or saucepan: Required for frying the Reuben balls to crispy perfection.
- Whisk: Useful for blending the dipping sauce ingredients smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls
- 1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Chopped corned beef
2. Sauerkraut
3. Shredded Swiss cheese
4. Cream cheese
5. Dijon mustard
Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Once chilled:
1. Scoop out portions of the mixture using your hands or a small scoop.
2. Roll each portion into 1-inch balls.
3. Place them on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again while you prepare for frying.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
Prepare three bowls:
1. One with all-purpose flour.
2. One with beaten eggs.
3. One with breadcrumbs.
Coat each ball in flour first:
Tap off excess flour.
Then dip into beaten eggs:
Ensure it’s fully covered.
Finally, roll in breadcrumbs:
Press gently to adhere breadcrumbs well.
Step 4: Fry the Balls
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in small batches for about 2–3 minutes:
1. Turn occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Ketchup
3. Pickle relish
4. Hot sauce (to taste)
5. Smoked paprika
Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange your freshly fried Reuben Balls on a platter alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful twist on classic flavors!
How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging in a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
For Game Day Gatherings
- Serve on a Platter: Arrange the Reuben Balls neatly on a large platter for easy access. This presentation is perfect for game day.
- Mini Skewers: Use toothpicks or mini skewers for guests to grab their balls easily while mingling.
With Fresh Veggies
- Veggie Side: Pair with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. The crunch complements the soft texture of the Reuben Balls.
- Dip Variety: Offer additional dips such as ranch or blue cheese alongside the spicy sauce for variety.
As Party Bites
- Cocktail Style: Serve Reuben Balls in small cups as bite-sized appetizers. This makes them easy to eat while standing.
- Garnish Options: Top with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Pairing with Drinks
- Beer Pairing: These balls are fantastic with cold beers. Consider offering a selection of lagers or IPAs that complement the dish.
- Mocktails: For non-drinkers, serve refreshing mocktails made from fruit juices and soda water to cleanse the palate.
How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
To ensure your Reuben Balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Chilling: After mixing the filling, chill it for at least 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Frying Temperature: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) during frying for that perfect golden color and crispiness.
- Breadcrumb Choice: Using panko breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy texture that enhances each bite.
- Cooking in Batches: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and affect crispiness.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your spicy dipping sauce before serving. Adjust seasonings like hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- Serving Fresh: Enjoy these Reuben Balls immediately after frying for the best flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Complement your Reuben Balls with some delightful side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the bites.
- Pickles: Serve dill pickles or pickled veggies for a sharp contrast in flavors.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad provides comfort and pairs beautifully with the savory balls.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that complements the savory profile of the Reuben Balls.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce you may have!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, avoid common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using wet sauerkraut: Make sure to drain and squeeze the sauerkraut dry. Excess moisture can make the mixture too soggy.
- Skipping the refrigeration step: Don’t skip chilling the mixture before forming balls. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
- Overcrowding the frying pan: Fry in small batches to achieve even cooking and a crispy texture. Overcrowding can lead to uneven frying.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your spicy dipping sauce before serving. Adjusting flavors can elevate the overall dish.
- Using regular breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs won’t provide the same texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow them to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- Freeze uncooked or cooked Reuben balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are bite-sized snacks that combine corned beef, cheese, and sauerkraut, all fried until golden brown and served with a zesty dipping sauce.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry or freeze them for later use.
How do I customize the spicy dipping sauce?
You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce. Experimenting with ingredients like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce can also enhance its flavor.
Are there any substitutions for corned beef?
Absolutely! You can use pastrami or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version of these delicious balls.
What is served with Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?
They pair wonderfully with pickles, potato chips, or fresh veggies alongside your spicy dipping sauce for a complete snack platter.
Final Thoughts
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are not just tasty but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as party appetizers or game day snacks, you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 balls 1x
Description
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, transforming its beloved flavors into irresistible bite-sized snacks. These crunchy, golden-fried balls feature a savory filling of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Paired with a zesty Thousand Island dipping sauce that adds just the right kick, these Reuben Balls are perfect for game day gatherings, parties, or casual snacking. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they are sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix well and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll chilled mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- For the dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce (to taste), and smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (30g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
