Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Published: June 26, 2025

by Olivia

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, these flavorful bites capture the essence of a Reuben sandwich in a crispy, snackable form. With a zesty dipping sauce that adds an extra kick, these balls are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: Each bite is packed with the savory taste of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Versatile Snack: Ideal for any occasion—appetizers at parties, snacks during game days, or even a unique addition to your dinner menu.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves finger foods! These Reuben balls are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Perfectly Dippable: The spicy Thousand Island sauce adds a creamy contrast that complements the crispy balls beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having the proper equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Skillet or saucepan
Cooking thermometer
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor.
Skillet or saucepan: Provides even heat distribution for frying the Reuben balls to perfection.
Cooking thermometer: Helps achieve the ideal frying temperature, ensuring crispy results while avoiding greasy balls.

Ingredients

These ingredients create the mouthwatering flavor of Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

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
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Corned beef
2. Sauerkraut
3. Swiss cheese
4. Cream cheese
5. Dijon mustard

Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Once chilled:
1. Scoop out portions of the mixture using your hands or a spoon.
2. Roll each portion into a ball about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place formed balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again for easier handling.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Prepare three separate bowls:
1. One with all-purpose flour.
2. One with beaten eggs.
3. One with breadcrumbs.

Coat each ball in flour first, then dip into beaten eggs before rolling in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Balls

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
1. Fry the balls in small batches for about 2–3 minutes.
2. Turn occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain on paper towels after frying.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Ketchup
3. Pickle relish
4. Hot sauce
5. Smoked paprika

Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange your crispy Reuben Balls on a platter alongside the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Serve warm and enjoy this tasty treat!

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your snacking experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual night in, these serving ideas will make your dish even more delightful.

On a Platter

Arrange the Reuben Balls on a large platter for an inviting presentation. This makes it easy for guests to grab their favorites as they mingle.

With Extra Dipping Sauces

Offer a variety of dipping sauces alongside the main spicy Thousand Island sauce. Consider adding ranch, blue cheese, or a tangy mustard for added flavor options.

Paired with Pickles

Serve sliced dill pickles on the side. They provide a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the Reuben Balls.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top of the Reuben Balls for an appealing look and a hint of freshness.

With Finger Foods

Serve alongside other finger foods like potato skins or stuffed mushrooms. This creates a fun and diverse appetizer spread.

How to Perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Creating the perfect Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Chill the Mixture: Allowing the mixture to chill for 30 minutes helps it hold its shape during frying, preventing any breakdown.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Opting for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones gives your Reuben Balls an extra crispy texture that everyone loves.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before forming balls. Adjust seasonings like mustard and hot sauce to match your flavor preference.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350°F (175°C) ensures even frying and prevents sogginess. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

To complement your delicious Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, consider these fantastic side dishes:

Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the balls and adds freshness.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that pairs well with dipping sauces.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a refreshing bite alongside richer snacks.
Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are always a hit at parties and add another layer of flavor to your spread.
Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses to create an appealing cheese plate that guests can enjoy as they nibble on Reuben Balls.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites can be filled with cheese, herbs, or sausage for an extra special touch.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks offer another delicious option for dipping in sauces while enjoying your appetizer feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the mixture can lead to soft balls that don’t hold their shape. Always chill for 30 minutes before rolling.
Using wet sauerkraut: If you don’t drain and squeeze dry the sauerkraut, it can make your mixture too wet. Make sure it’s well-drained for best results.
Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many at once can lower oil temperature, resulting in greasy balls. Fry in small batches for a perfect crispiness.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: The flavor can vary based on personal taste. Always taste your dipping sauce and adjust the hot sauce or paprika according to your preference.
Not using panko breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs may not give you the same crispy texture. Opt for panko for that delightful crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Freeze uncooked balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place balls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Microwave: Use this method only if you’re short on time; heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but they won’t be crispy.
Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little oil over medium heat and reheat balls for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are bite-sized snacks that combine corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden.

How do I customize my Reuben Balls?

You can customize your Reuben Balls by adding ingredients like jalapeños for heat or different cheeses like cheddar for a unique flavor twist.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge or freeze them until you’re ready to fry.

What should I serve with Reuben Balls?

These delicious bites pair well with various sides like potato chips, pickles, or even a fresh salad for a more balanced meal.

How spicy is the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?

The spiciness depends on how much hot sauce you add. Start with one teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce offer a delightful twist on classic flavors while being easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or having a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients or spices to make this recipe uniquely yours!