Lorenzo Devereaux
Imagine the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich transformed into a crispy, golden bite-sized delight. Reuben Balls are packed with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a crunchy coating, served alongside a zesty homemade Thousand Island dipping sauce with a spicy kick. They’re the ultimate appetizer for game day, parties, or when you just want a snack that brings bold flavor to the table.
These little bites deliver the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and creamy. Each ball captures the essence of the classic deli sandwich in a fun, shareable form. Paired with the spicy Thousand Island dip, they’re not just addictive—they’re unforgettable.
What Makes Reuben Balls So Irresistible?
The magic lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The corned beef offers hearty savoriness, the sauerkraut adds tang and crunch, and the melted Swiss cheese ties everything together. Rolling them in breadcrumbs and frying or baking gives you a crisp shell that contrasts perfectly with the gooey interior. When dipped in a spicy Thousand Island sauce, each bite is elevated to a new level of indulgence.
Ingredients for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
- Corned Beef: The star of the recipe, providing rich and salty flavor.
- Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and complements the tang of the sauerkraut.
- Sauerkraut: Brings a bright, tangy kick and keeps the filling juicy.
- Cream Cheese: Helps bind the mixture and adds creaminess.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): Create the golden, crispy coating.
- Eggs: Used for binding the mixture and breading.
- Flour: Helps the breadcrumbs stick and keeps the coating secure.
- Mayonnaise, Ketchup & Hot Sauce: Form the base of the spicy Thousand Island dip.
- Pickle Relish & Paprika: Add zest and a mild heat to the dipping sauce.
How To Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Chop the corned beef into small pieces and mix it with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and softened cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is well-combined and can hold its shape when rolled.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Bread the Balls
Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third. Roll each ball in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Fry or Bake to Perfection
- To Fry: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the balls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, paprika, and a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat to taste. Chill until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the warm Reuben Balls on a platter with a bowl of the spicy Thousand Island dip. Serve immediately for the ultimate crispy, gooey bite.
Serving and Storing Reuben Balls
Reuben Balls are best served warm while the cheese is still melty and gooey. If you’re serving them at a party, keep them on a warming tray or in the oven on low heat to maintain that crispy exterior. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven to bring back their crunch—avoid the microwave if possible to prevent sogginess.
What to Serve With Reuben Balls
1. Classic Dill Pickles
Their bright crunch balances the rich, cheesy bites.
2. Crisp Coleslaw
A tangy and fresh side that lightens the meal.
3. Potato Wedges or Fries
Perfect for soaking up extra spicy Thousand Island sauce.
4. Pretzel Bites
Adds another fun, dippable snack to the party platter.
5. Beer-Cheese Dip
Another creamy option that pairs perfectly with crispy appetizers.
6. Mini Rye Bread Toasts
Highlight the traditional Reuben flavor by serving the balls with rye toasts.
7. Pickled Jalapeños
Bring a little extra heat to complement the dipping sauce.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, you’ll enjoy these other party-perfect bites:
- Taco Ranch Bites for a bold, zesty flavor in every bite.
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
- Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly to balance heat and creamy cheese.
- Warm Gooey Cheesy Pretzel Bites for a cozy, soft-baked option.
- Taco Ranch Bites – Party Edition to add variety to your appetizer platter.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can enjoy these crispy bites anytime!
And let me know in the comments how your Reuben Balls turned out. Did you bake or fry them? Did you make the sauce extra spicy?
Explore more creative party snacks and unique bites on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest.
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking sheet
- Deep skillet or fryer
- Tongs
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 0.5 cup flour
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp pickle relish
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp hot sauce (or to taste)
- oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese until combined.
- Roll into 1-inch balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm.
- Coat each ball in flour, dip in eggs, then breadcrumbs. Optional: double coat for extra crunch.
- Fry at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until golden or bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway.
- Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, paprika, and hot sauce. Chill before serving.
- Serve warm with spicy Thousand Island dip.