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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Delight

Delight in these crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, a unique twist on the classic Reuben sandwich.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Filling
  • 2 cups corned beef, chopped substitute with turkey or pastrami for a lighter option
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained rinse and drain well to prevent sogginess
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese consider Gruyère or mozzarella for different textures
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened ricotta can be used for a lighter texture
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard yellow mustard is a milder alternative
Coating
  • 1 cup flour acts as the first coating to help the batter stick
  • 2 large eggs, beaten for even coverage
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko breadcrumbs can add extra crunch
Frying
  • 2-3 cups vegetable oil opt for high smoke point oils like canola or peanut oil
Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt works well for a lighter option
  • 1/4 cup ketchup adds sweetness to the sauce
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish chopped dill pickles or olives can be used instead
  • 1 tsp hot sauce adjust to taste or use Sriracha for a garlic flavor
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika regular paprika is a good substitute for a different flavor
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley optional to omit if unavailable

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Shallow Bowls
  • Deep Skillet
  • slotted spoon
  • Thermometer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
  2. After chilling, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
  3. Prepare your breading station by setting out three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs.
  4. Take each ball and roll it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs for an even coating, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Place the coated balls on a tray to rest.
  5. In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the balls, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat.
  6. Carefully drop a few coated Reuben Balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the Reuben Balls are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Transfer the crispy Reuben Balls to a serving platter, arranging them neatly. Serve warm alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, and if desired, garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze un-fried Reuben Balls for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen for extra crispiness.

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