Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate party appetizer that’s crunchy, savory, a little tangy, and wildly satisfying, let me introduce you to Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Imagine the legendary flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich — corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing — transformed into bite-sized golden morsels that disappear faster than you can fry them. Paired with a zippy, homemade Thousand Island sauce, these are everything you love about the original Reuben, now in celebratory, poppable form. Prepare to wow your friends and steal the show at your next gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you! Each component in Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce contributes a unique character: the tender corned beef, gooey Swiss, sharp sauerkraut, and a duo of crisp breadcrumbs deliver serious flavor and crunch. The sauce is the cherry on top, bringing creamy heat and punchy brightness that ties it all together.

• Corned Beef (1 cup, finely chopped): Provides that signature Reuben savoriness; fresh or leftover corned beef works perfectly here.
• Swiss Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into creamy goodness and pairs beautifully with the salty meat.
• Sauerkraut (3/4 cup, drained and squeezed dry): Adds tang and keeps every bite lively — make sure it’s dry for best texture.
• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened): Binds the mixture and brings a luscious, rich finish.
• Rye Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Infuses that classic rye flavor reminiscent of traditional Reuben bread.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Coats each ball to ensure flawless crisping in the hot oil.
• Eggs (2 large, beaten): Help the breadcrumbs adhere and add structure when frying.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Guarantee an extra light, crispy coating that stays crunchy.
• Oil for Frying (vegetable or canola): Neutral flavor oil is key for crispy, non-greasy results.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy base for our irresistible dipping sauce.
• Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and color to the sauce.
• Pickle Relish (1 tablespoon): Balances with a touch of acidity and crunch in the dip.
• Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle heat and zing — adjust to your spice preference!
• Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors for a well-seasoned sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A pop of color and fresh flavor for garnish.

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Make the Filling

Start by combining the heart of the Reuben in a big mixing bowl — the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss, drained sauerkraut, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together thoroughly; this ensures you get a perfect ratio of tangy, cheesy, and savory in every single bite. Using room-temperature cream cheese will make your life so much easier during this step!

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

Once the filling is well-mixed, pop it in the fridge for about 20 to 30 minutes. This quick chill time firms everything up, making it much easier to roll into tidy, compact balls without it sticking all over your hands or falling apart.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Grab a tablespoon measure and scoop out even portions of the chilled filling. Roll these gently between your palms into compact balls. Keeping them uniform in size ensures all your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce cook at the same rate and look downright irresistible.

Step 4: Set Up the Dredging Station

Set yourself up for success by lining up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and a third combining the rye breadcrumbs and panko. This little assembly line gets each ball ready for its golden, crispy destiny!

Step 5: Bread the Balls

Roll each Reuben ball first in flour to coat, then dip it into the egg so the breadcrumbs have something to cling to. Finally, firmly press the balls into the rye-panko mixture to get them totally covered — that way, you get crunchy bites all around.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden

Heat at least two inches of oil in a heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, gently lower the breaded balls into the hot oil, frying for 3 to 4 minutes. Use tongs to turn them and ensure even browning on all sides. Once perfectly golden, transfer to a paper towel-lined tray to drain off any excess oil.

Step 7: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

Ready to make that dipping sauce magic? In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Give it a good whisk until smooth and fully blended. The hot sauce brings just enough spice to wake up your tastebuds! Pop the sauce in the fridge to chill while you finish the rest.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

If you want a little extra color and fresh flavor, sprinkle your Reuben Balls with parsley just before serving. Now arrange them on a platter alongside that irresistible Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Garnishes

A final shower of freshly chopped parsley adds a splash of color that pops against the golden crust — plus, it brightens the overall flavor a bit. For a true showstopper, you might even top each ball with a tiny piece of dill pickle or an extra pinch of rye crumbs. Simple touches like these make your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce look as great as they taste.

Side Dishes

These flavor-packed appetizers are perfect with a cold, crisp beer, but they also love classic deli companions. Serve them with crunchy kettle chips, pickle spears, or even a tangy cabbage slaw. Their richness pairs nicely with sharp, vinegary sides that refresh your palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have a little fun! Try stacking Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce on skewers for easy mingling at parties, or nestle them into mini slider buns for jaw-dropping party sandwiches. Serve the dipping sauce in mini jars or carved-out bread bowls for a playful, hands-on presentation that doubles the wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them fresh by transferring cooled Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and sogginess.

Freezing

These party bites freeze wonderfully! Arrange the uncooked, breaded balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in freezer bags for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry directly from frozen (just add a couple extra minutes to ensure they’re hot through the center).

Reheating

For that just-fried crispiness, reheat leftover Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for about 8-10 minutes. Skip the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the coating soggy — and these are all about that crunch!

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! While frying gives the crispiest exterior, you can bake the breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. For even more crunch, give them a quick spray of oil before baking.

Do I have to use rye breadcrumbs?

Rye breadcrumbs add authentic Reuben flavor, but if you can’t find them, substitute with regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of caraway seeds to your mixture to mimic that signature rye taste.

What can I substitute for corned beef?

If you’re not a fan of corned beef or want to experiment, try using pastrami, roast beef, or even cooked shredded chicken for a twist. Just keep the portion size the same so the balls hold together nicely.

Is the Spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce very hot?

The sauce has a gentle kick from the hot sauce, but it’s more zesty than spicy. Feel free to reduce or increase the hot sauce to suit your taste, or use a milder variety if serving a crowd with younger eaters.

Can I make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble and bread the balls a day in advance, storing them in the fridge until ready to fry. The sauce can be made up to three days ahead, too. This makes entertaining with these addictive bites a total breeze.

Final Thoughts

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are pure comfort food with a party twist — all the classic flavors in a form that’s perfect for sharing, snacking, and celebrating. Whether you serve them at your next game night, holiday gathering, or just because, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Give them a try and let the compliments roll in!

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