Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

Introduction

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a fun, family-friendly twist on the classic sandwich. Perfect for parties, game day, or a tasty snack, they pack all the beloved flavors into bite-sized, crispy delights. If you enjoy this recipe, try the Easy Reuben Fritters Ready in 30 Minutes for another quick and delicious option.

Ingredients

These savory Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce deliver a satisfying crunch outside with a warm, tangy filling that bursts with classic deli flavors.

• 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
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon horseradish
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Timing

Prep Time	25 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Filling

Combine 1 cup finely chopped corned beef, ½ cup sauerkraut (well-drained and squeezed dry), 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, ¼ cup Thousand Island dressing, and ½ cup breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together when pressed.

Tip: For best texture, chop the corned beef finely to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.

Step 2 — Form the Balls

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it firmly between your palms to form a 1-inch ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all mixture is used, aiming for 20–24 balls.

If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a teaspoon of dressing to help bind.

Step 3 — Chill Before Cooking

Refrigerate the formed Reuben balls for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and prevents them from falling apart in the oil or oven.

Chilling also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce.

Step 4 — Choose Your Cooking Method

For frying: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry balls in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange balls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and heated through.

Step 5 — Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup Thousand Island dressing, 1 tablespoon Sriracha or hot sauce, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon pickle relish. Adjust heat to taste.

Let the sauce sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop. For extra zest, add a pinch of smoked paprika.

Step 6 — Serve Warm

Arrange the hot Reuben balls on a platter with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra sauerkraut if desired.

Serve immediately while the balls are crispy and the cheese is melted for the best texture and flavor experience.

Nutritional Information

Calories	310
Protein	15g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Pastrami — Leaner protein with classic spiced flavor.
• Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb base that absorbs seasoning well.
• Coconut Yogurt Sauce — Creamy dairy-free alternative for the dip.
• Almond Flour Breading — Gluten-free coating with a nutty crunch.
• Low-Sodium Sauerkraut — Tangy ferment with reduced salt content.
• Swiss-Style Vegan Cheese — Melty plant-based option for dairy-free needs.
• Baked Instead of Fried — Crispy texture with less oil.
• Greek Yogurt Dip Base — Lighter, protein-rich alternative to mayo-based sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce as an appetizer at game day parties or holiday gatherings.
• Pair with a crisp dill pickle spear and a cold craft beer for a classic pub-style presentation.
• Create a Reuben-themed platter by adding small bowls of sauerkraut and extra Swiss cheese slices.
• For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Arrange on a wooden board with rye bread crostini for guests to build mini Reuben bites.
• Perfect for potlucks—transport the Reuben Balls in a warming tray and sauce in a separate container.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of caraway seeds for visual appeal.

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are versatile enough for casual snacking or elegant entertaining, making them a crowd-pleasing choice any time of year.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using soggy sauerkraut that makes the balls fall apart. Fix: Thoroughly drain and press sauerkraut between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Mistake: Overmixing the corned beef and cheese filling, resulting in a dense texture. Fix: Gently combine ingredients just until incorporated to keep the mixture light.
• Mistake: Skipping the chilling step before frying, causing the balls to break in the oil. Fix: Chill the formed Reuben Balls for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Mistake: Frying at an incorrect oil temperature, leading to greasy or burnt exteriors. Fix: Use a thermometer to maintain oil between 350°F and 375°F for even cooking.
• Mistake: Making the dipping sauce too thin, which doesn’t cling to the balls. Fix: Use a thicker base like Greek yogurt or add more ketchup to achieve a scoopable consistency.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the corned beef mixture, making the final product bland. Fix: Taste the mixture before forming and adjust with extra spices or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Mistake: Using breadcrumbs that are too coarse, preventing a proper crust from forming. Fix: Opt for fine, dry breadcrumbs or panko for a consistently crispy coating.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the frying pan, which lowers the oil temperature and steams the balls. Fix: Fry in small batches, giving each ball enough space to cook evenly and crisp up.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate for best texture.
• Freezer: Arrange cooked and cooled Reuben Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Bake frozen Reuben Balls at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For refrigerated balls, bake 10-12 minutes until hot.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce reach a safe internal temperature when reheating.

Conclusion

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a perfect party appetizer or game day snack. For more delicious Reuben-inspired dishes, try our Homemade Reuben Bake Recipe. We hope you love this recipe—please leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more easy recipes!

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FAQs

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

Yes, you can prepare the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce in advance. Assemble the balls and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. The dipping sauce also keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge.

What is the best way to keep the Reuben Balls from falling apart?

Ensure your corned beef and sauerkraut are well-drained and finely chopped. Chilling the mixture before shaping helps the balls hold together. Press the mixture firmly when forming each ball for the best structure.

Can I bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying them?

Absolutely. Baking is a great alternative for a lighter version of Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 375°F until golden and heated through.