Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a game-changer for any gathering. Packed with the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich, these crispy, cheesy bites are perfect for parties and casual get-togethers. The accompanying spicy dipping sauce adds an exciting twist, making them irresistible to all snack lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Balls
• For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
• Step 2: Form the Balls
• Step 3: Coat the Balls
• Step 4: Fry the Balls
• Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• With a Side of Fresh Pickles
• Alongside Potato Wedges
• Served on a Bed of Coleslaw
• Accompanied by Beer
• With Mini Pretzel Bites
• Plated with Sweet Potato Fries
• How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• Reheating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How spicy is the dipping sauce?
• Can I make these in advance?
• What can I serve alongside these Reuben Balls?
• Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these tasty bites without stress.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese delivers a savory punch that everyone will love.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for game days, parties, or even as a fun weeknight treat, these Reuben Balls fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Bite-sized and packed with flavor, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Perfectly Paired: The spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce enhances the overall taste and adds a zesty kick.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet or saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly.
• Skillet or saucepan: Needed for frying the Reuben balls to achieve that golden crispiness.

Ingredients

For the 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 Spicy Thousand Island 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 Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Scoop the chilled mixture into 1-inch portions. Roll each portion into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Coat each ball in flour first. Then dip it into beaten eggs before rolling in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Balls

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in small batches for 2–3 minutes. Turn occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste based on your preference.

Step 6: Serve

Arrange your Reuben Balls on a platter alongside the spicy dipping sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce make a fantastic appetizer for any gathering. Their crispy exterior and savory filling pair perfectly with the zesty dipping sauce, making them a hit at parties and game days.

With a Side of Fresh Pickles

• Pickles add a crunchy and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of Reuben Balls, balancing the dish nicely.

Alongside Potato Wedges

• Crispy potato wedges are an excellent side that complements the savory taste of the Reuben Balls while adding a hearty touch.

Served on a Bed of Coleslaw

• A refreshing coleslaw can provide a cool crunch that pairs beautifully with the warm, fried Reuben Balls.

Accompanied by Beer

• Pairing these bites with a cold beer enhances the pub-style experience, making them even more enjoyable.

With Mini Pretzel Bites

• Mini pretzel bites can serve as another finger food option, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors.

Plated with Sweet Potato Fries

• Sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness and color to your spread, offering another delicious option for dipping.

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How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Perfecting your Reuben Balls involves paying attention to details in preparation and frying. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Mixture Well: Refrigerating the filling helps it firm up, making it easier to shape into balls without falling apart.

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create an extra crispy texture that enhances each bite.

• Fry in Small Batches: Frying too many at once can lower oil temperature, resulting in soggy balls. Work in small batches for best results.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in your dipping sauce or filling to suit your taste.

• Keep Oil Temperature Consistent: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.

• Serve Immediately: Reuben Balls are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer when they are hot and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Serving side dishes alongside your Reuben Balls adds variety and makes your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options that pair well:

1. Crispy Onion Rings: These add an extra crunch and flavor that complements the main dish wonderfully.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks provide a delightful chewiness that balances the crispiness of the balls.
3. Loaded Nachos: A plate of cheesy nachos offers another fun finger food option for guests to enjoy alongside their Reuben Balls.
4. Stuffed Jalapeños: For those who like some spice, stuffed jalapeños bring additional flavor while keeping things interesting.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.
6. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni is always a crowd favorite that complements savory snacks like Reuben Balls beautifully.
7. Fruit Platter: A vibrant fruit platter adds freshness and sweetness, cleansing the palate between bites.
8. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crunchy spring rolls filled with veggies offer another light option that pairs well with your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to refrigerate the mixture can lead to balls that fall apart during frying. Always chill your mixture for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many balls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy snacks. Fry in small batches for the best crispiness.
• Not draining properly: If you don’t drain the fried Reuben Balls on paper towels, they may retain excess oil. This can make them greasy and less enjoyable.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust the dipping sauce could lead to bland flavors. Always sample your sauce and tweak it to your liking.
• Incorrect oil temperature: Using oil that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your Reuben Balls. Use a thermometer to ensure it’s around 350°F (175°C).
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients will affect flavor and texture. Choose fresh corned beef and high-quality cheese for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

• Freeze uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored 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, but this may result in softer texture.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a pan and fry for a couple of minutes until warm and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.

How spicy is the dipping sauce?

The spiciness largely depends on how much hot sauce you add. Start with less, then increase according to your preference.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare and freeze them ahead of time, then just fry when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve alongside these Reuben Balls?

These snacks pair well with pickles, potato chips, or even a side salad for balance.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

You can use plant-based meat alternatives along with vegan cheese and cream cheese for a vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect as an appetizer or snack for any gathering. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spice levels! Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!