Skip to content
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls:
- 2 cups corned beef, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 ½ cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Reuben Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
- Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the balls for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Bread the Reuben Balls
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet.
Step 3: Fry the Reuben Balls
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Chill until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the Reuben Balls on a serving platter.
- Serve with the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze the Reuben balls up to 2 days ahead; fry just before serving.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Dipping Sauce Variations: Add horseradish or chopped dill pickles for extra zing.
These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day or holiday parties! 🥩🧀🌶️