Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

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Craving something crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor? These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the ultimate party bite that takes everything you love about the classic sandwich and transforms it into a snackable, golden-fried delight.

Imagine corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut folded into creamy mashed potatoes, rolled into bite-sized orbs, and fried until perfectly crisp. The spicy thousand island dip adds just the right amount of tang and heat, making this a standout at any game day spread or cozy night in.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, gather your kitchen tools. A food processor helps finely chop the corned beef and sauerkraut, ensuring a consistent texture. A mixing bowl is crucial for combining all the ingredients evenly.

A cookie scoop or your hands will shape uniform balls, and a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot ensures an even fry with golden crusts. Don’t forget a slotted spoon or spider skimmer for safe oil handling, and paper towels to blot excess oil.

Having a wire rack is ideal too – it keeps the Reuben Balls crisp after frying instead of steaming on a plate. Use a small saucepan or mixing bowl for the dipping sauce, and you’re ready to go!

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Ingredients for the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

• Corned Beef – The star of any Reuben. Its savory, slightly salty bite adds depth and rich flavor to each ball.
• Sauerkraut – Brings tang and acidity to balance out the richness, offering that classic Reuben contrast.
• Swiss Cheese – Melty and nutty, it melds the ingredients and delivers that signature creamy pull.
• Mashed Potatoes – Acts as the binding base, holding everything together with a soft texture inside the crispy shell.
• Eggs – Essential for binding the mixture and for coating during breading.
• Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Create that craveable crunch on the exterior.
• Flour – Helps coat the balls before frying to lock in shape and texture.
• Oil for Frying – Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola.

For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce:

• Mayonnaise – The creamy base that holds it all together.
• Ketchup – Adds a sweet, tomato-rich undertone.
• Pickle Relish – Brings a vinegary bite and texture.
• Hot Sauce or Sriracha – For that necessary heat kick.
• Paprika – Enhances the smoky warmth.
• Garlic Powder – Lends savory depth to the dipping sauce.

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How To Make the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Filling

Finely chop the corned beef and drain the sauerkraut well to avoid sogginess. Mix them in a large bowl with mashed potatoes and shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until well combined.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into evenly sized balls (about golf ball size). Place them on a lined baking tray and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Coat and Bread

Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, you can double-dip in egg and crumbs.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp – about 3-4 minutes. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. Taste and adjust heat to preference. Chill until ready to serve.

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How to Serve and Store Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

Serve these Reuben Balls piping hot with the dipping sauce on the side. They’re perfect as finger food for parties, game days, or even casual dinners when you want something playful but filling. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for that final visual pop.

If you have leftovers (a big if), store the Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to revive that crisp coating—avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess. The dipping sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of corned beef works best for this recipe?

Deli-sliced or leftover home-cooked corned beef both work well. Just be sure to chop it finely so it blends easily with the mashed potatoes and cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and bread the balls, then refrigerate for up to a day or freeze them uncooked. Just fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cook time.

Is there a baked version of these?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. While not as crispy as frying, they still taste fantastic and are lighter.

Can I use a different cheese?

Swiss cheese gives the classic Reuben flavor, but you can try Gruyère, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar if you’re feeling bold.

How spicy is the dipping sauce?

It has a mild kick from the hot sauce, but you can dial it up or down to taste. Want it smoky and spicy? Add chipotle sauce or a pinch of cayenne.

What should I serve with them?

They pair wonderfully with pickles, slaw, or a crisp salad to cut the richness. Or serve with beer for the ultimate pub-style snack.

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Want More Savory Appetizer Ideas?

If these Reuben Balls hit the spot, there are plenty more bite-sized or cheesy delights to try.

Start with the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you love crispy exteriors with a creamy twist.

Then check out these Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles for a tangy, crunchy snack that’s easy to whip up.

You might also want to try the Cheeseburger Sliders for a mini take on a diner favorite.

And if potatoes are your thing, the Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a clever way to transform leftovers into crispy bites.

Finally, the Meaty Texas Trash Dip offers a hot, cheesy bake that’s ideal for dipping and sharing.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your appetizer boards for future snacking inspiration. Just click the Pin button.

And if you give these Reuben Balls a go, I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Did you bake instead of fry? Leave a comment and share your spin!

For more daily recipe inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Pinterest at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

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