As I rummaged through my fridge one sunny afternoon, a lightbulb moment struck me—what if I could transform classic Reuben ingredients into bite-sized delights? That’s how these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip came to life! Not only do they pack all the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich, but they also make for an irresistible appetizer your guests will rave about. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for anyone who wants an impressive dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, frying them to golden perfection creates an unforgettable crunch that pairs beautifully with the tangy dip. Fancy giving this mouthwatering recipe a try? Let’s dive in!
Why are Reuben Balls a Must-Try?
Bold, Flavorful Bite: These Reuben Balls capture the essence of a classic sandwich in a delightful, snackable form.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you'll be whipping up these crispy treats in no time.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it's game day or a casual get-together, these crowd-pleasers are sure to impress.
Versatile Flavor Pairing: The spicy Thousand Island dip elevates the experience, balancing the richness of the balls.
Quick and Satisfying: Ready in just 35 minutes, they're an efficient and delicious solution to your appetizer needs.
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls
• Cooked corned beef – 1 ½ cups, finely chopped ensures the classic Reuben flavor shines through.
• Sauerkraut – 1 cup, well-drained and chopped adds a tangy crunch to each bite.
• Swiss cheese – 1 cup, shredded makes these balls ooze with cheesy goodness.
• Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened keeps the mixture creamy and cohesive.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon enhances the savory flavor without overpowering.
• Onion powder – ½ teaspoon brings depth and sweetness to the mix.
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon adds a subtle kick to the overall taste.
• Breadcrumbs – 1 cup, plus extra for coating gives a lovely crunch and crisp texture upon frying.
• Large egg – 1, beaten acts as a binder to help the balls hold their shape during frying.
• Oil for frying – Choose vegetable or canola, ensuring they reach a perfect 350°F for a golden finish.
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dip
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup serves as the creamy base of this zesty dip.
• Ketchup – 2 tablespoons adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.
• Sweet pickle relish – 1 tablespoon brings a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the salty Reuben Balls.
• Hot sauce – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) adds a spicy touch that balances the creaminess.
• Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon gives an earthy, smoky depth to the dip.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon enhances flavor and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon brightens the dip and adds a refreshing zing.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, ensuring perfect seasoning for that irresistible flavor.
Dive into these savory Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip and watch your guests fall in love with every vibrant bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of finely chopped corned beef, 1 cup of well-drained and chopped sauerkraut, 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese, and 4 oz of softened cream cheese. Add ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated. If the mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm it up.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Scoop small portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into 1 to 1.5 inch balls with your hands. This should yield around 16 balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined tray and ensure they are spaced apart. Refrigerate the tray for an additional 15 minutes to help the balls hold their shape during frying.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare a breading station by placing a bowl of beaten egg next to another bowl filled with breadcrumbs. Once the Reuben Balls are ready, dip each ball into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated. For extra crunch, you can repeat this process for a double coating, ensuring a satisfying crispy texture.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, pour in enough vegetable or canola oil to reach about 2 inches deep, then heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature, as this ensures your Reuben Balls will fry perfectly golden. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately and turn golden.
Step 5: Fry the Reuben Balls
Carefully place the breaded Reuben Balls in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 2–3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy all around. Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked balls and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Spicy Dip
While the Reuben Balls are frying, prepare the spicy Thousand Island dip. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish, and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce. Add in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, mixing until smooth and well combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then chill until serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the hot Reuben Balls to a serving platter. Pair them with the chilled spicy Thousand Island dip alongside. These flavorful Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip are now ready to delight your taste buds—perfect for appetizers at gatherings or just a fun snack at home!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Variations
Feel free to experiment with these variations and make this recipe uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute corned beef with finely chopped portobello mushrooms and add more sauerkraut for extra flavor.
This twist will delight veggie lovers who crave that Reuben taste without the meat. -
Cheese Lover: Replace Swiss cheese with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a melty, stringy texture.
The combination brings a new level of cheesy goodness that takes these balls to the next level. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick of heat in every bite.
If you love spice, you’ll appreciate how the jalapeños enhance the flavors and excitement of these tasty appetizers. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive folks.
This substitution ensures that no one has to miss out on these delightful Reuben Balls! -
Herbed Variations: Mix in fresh chopped dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.
It not only heightens the flavor but also adds a lovely touch of color to your dish. -
Baking Alternative: Bake the balls instead of frying for a healthier version; about 20-25 minutes at 375°F should do the trick.
This option provides a lighter alternative while keeping the delicious flavor intact. -
Sweet Relish Flair: Use spicy relish instead of sweet pickle relish in the dip for a flavorful twist.
This small change can invigorate the flavor profile and add more complexity to the dip. -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked Gouda in place of Swiss cheese for a richer, smoky taste.
This delicious twist brings comforting warmth and depth to the decadent bites you’ll adore!
What to Serve with Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip
Elevate your snacking experience with these savory bites that beckon for delightful accompaniments, creating a comforting and satisfying spread.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of sweet potato fries add an exciting contrast, enhancing your palate's adventure!
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Tangy Coleslaw: Fresh, crunchy coleslaw complements the rich flavors of the Reuben Balls, providing a refreshing bite to balance out the meal.
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and indulgent, these mashed potatoes provide a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with the salty bites.
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Beer-battered Onion Rings: Crispy, golden onion rings bring a smoky crunch that echoes the heartiness of the Reuben Balls, making for a nostalgic flavor duo.
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Pickled Veggies: A side of tangy pickled vegetables brightens up every bite, cutting through the richness and adding a zesty kick.
For a comforting twist, why not serve these alongside a rich bowl of creamy potato soup? The warmth of the soup harmonizes with the crispy Reuben Balls, creating a cozy meal that’s perfect for gathering and sharing.
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Craft Beer: Pair these delicious bites with a crisp craft beer, which enhances the flavors and livens up your gathering with friends!
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Chocolate Brownies: To cap off your meal with something sweet, fudgy brownies provide a decadent finish that balances the savory notes beautifully.
Expert Tips for Reuben Balls
• Chill the Mixture: Always refrigerate the corned beef mixture for at least 20-30 minutes prior to rolling. This helps the Reuben Balls hold their shape during frying.
• Double Coating: For an extra crispy texture, don’t hesitate to double coat your Reuben Balls. Simply dip again in egg and breadcrumbs before frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the balls will absorb excess oil; too hot, and they may burn.
• Check for Doneness: Fry in small batches, and make sure to cook until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes. This ensures they’re not just fried on the outside but cooked perfectly inside.
• Customize the Dip: Adjust the spice level in the spicy Thousand Island dip to your taste. Adding more hot sauce can really amp up the flavor!
• Leftovers Storage: Store any leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They can easily be reheated in the oven for a delicious snack later.
Make Ahead Options
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip are ideal for meal prep! You can make the mixture of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Form the balls and refrigerate them for 15-30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bread the chilled balls and fry them until golden brown, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. This way, you’ll have delicious appetizers ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Balls
Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in to avoid sogginess.
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled Reuben Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen Reuben Balls in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Pair with the spicy Thousand Island dip for an amazing snack!
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Recipe FAQs
How should I select the corned beef for the Reuben Balls?
When choosing corned beef, look for cuts that are well-marbled and have a nice pink color. The flavor will be richer if it’s freshly cooked, so I recommend using leftover corned beef from a meal if you have it!
What’s the best way to store leftover Reuben Balls?
Absolutely! Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they're completely cooled before sealing to prevent them from becoming soggy. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven for a quick reheat!
Can I freeze Reuben Balls? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Reuben Balls for up to 3 months! First, place the cooled balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes—just until hot and crispy!
What should I do if my Reuben Balls fall apart while frying?
Oh no! If your Reuben Balls are falling apart, it could be due to the mixture being too soft. Always ensure to chill the mixture for a bit before forming the balls. If they still seem to be falling apart, consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind them together.
Can I make these Reuben Balls in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and shape the balls, then cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to fry. This will make your cooking process super smooth when your guests arrive!
Are Reuben Balls safe for those with allergies, and how can I customize them?
If making these for someone with allergies, it's crucial to consider the ingredients. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your sauces don’t contain gluten. You can also swap the corned beef for turkey or use a vegan cream cheese for a plant-based alternative, tailoring the recipe as needed!
Irresistible Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Scoop portions of the mixture and roll into 1 to 1.5 inch balls. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Set up a breading station with a bowl of beaten egg and breadcrumbs. Dip each ball in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Fry the Reuben Balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- For the dip, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Chill until serving.
- Serve the hot Reuben Balls with the spicy Thousand Island dip.
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