These Reuben Balls are the perfect bite-sized appetizer—crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy, savory center packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Each bite tastes like a mini Reuben sandwich! Paired with a bold and spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, this appetizer is ideal for parties, game days, or any time you want a delicious snack that disappears fast.
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls
2 cups cooked and shredded corned beef (or chicken ham as a substitute)
1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions
- Make the Reuben Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Shape into Balls
Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch wide. Place them on a tray.
- Bread the Balls
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Roll each Reuben ball in the flour, dip it into the egg, and then coat it evenly with panko breadcrumbs. This ensures a crispy coating when fried.
- Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, fry the Reuben balls in batches for 3–4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Serve
Serve the crispy Reuben Balls warm alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.
Enjoy!