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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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  • Author: ChefEmma
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 20 balls 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Kosher

Description

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a savory twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. These bite-sized appetizers are filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, then fried to crispy perfection and served with a zesty dipping sauce.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Form into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Freeze for 15–20 minutes to firm.
  3. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each chilled ball in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for all.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry Reuben balls in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  7. To make the sauce, mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl and adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Serve Reuben balls hot with the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Make ahead and freeze uncooked balls; fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to cook time.
  • Adjust hot sauce in the dipping sauce to your spice preference.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
  • Great for parties, game day, or as a hearty appetizer.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 balls with sauce
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg