Introduction
What if you could transform the bold flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a crispy, bite-sized appetizer that leaves your guests begging for more?
Enter Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce—the next-level party food you didn’t know you needed.
These addictive little bites combine savory corned beef, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and a golden crunch, all paired with a spicy, creamy dipping sauce. They’re everything you love about bar snacks but upgraded for today’s foodie crowd.
Whether you’re hosting a bachelor party, prepping for game day, or just spicing up family dinner, this gourmet twist on pub food is guaranteed to impress. Better yet, they’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and flexible enough for air frying, baking, or traditional frying.
In this guide, you’ll get:
- A step-by-step recipe
- Customization options
- Storage and reheating tips
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Expert tips for perfect results
- FAQs and serving ideas
What Are Reuben Balls?
Reuben Balls are a creative spin on the classic Reuben sandwich, which traditionally features:
- Corned beef
- Swiss cheese
- Sauerkraut
- Thousand Island or Russian dressing
Instead of assembling these ingredients between slices of rye bread, you mix them, form them into balls, coat them in crispy breadcrumbs, and fry or bake them to perfection. The result is a flavor-packed, golden-brown appetizer with a creamy, cheesy interior and a crunchy exterior.
Paired with a spicy Thousand Island sauce, they hit every flavor note—salty, tangy, creamy, spicy, and crispy.
Why These Reuben Balls Are the Best Bar Snack
1️⃣ Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combination
Corned beef, cheese, and sauerkraut are time-tested flavors that people love. By combining them into one crispy bite, you offer the perfect balance of rich and tangy.
2️⃣ Texture Perfection
The contrast between the crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling is irresistible.
3️⃣ Make-Ahead Friendly
Prep them in advance, freeze them, and cook just before serving—ideal for parties.
4️⃣ Versatile Cooking Options
Fry, bake, or air-fry depending on your preference and dietary needs.
Ingredients for Reuben Balls & Spicy Dipping Sauce
For the Reuben Balls
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked Corned Beef | 2 cups, chopped |
| Sauerkraut | 1½ cups, drained and chopped |
| Swiss Cheese | 1½ cups, shredded |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz, softened |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Caraway Seeds (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1½ cups |
| Eggs | 3 large, beaten |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | 2 cups |
| Oil for Frying | As needed |
For the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Hot Sauce | 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste) |
| Sweet Pickle Relish | 2 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Make the Reuben Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix until fully combined and the mixture holds together well.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make the mixture easier to roll.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled mixture.
- Roll into firm, even balls.
Step 3: Bread the Balls
Prepare three bowls:
- Flour
- Beaten eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
Roll each ball in flour, then egg, and breadcrumbs. For extra crispness, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
Step 4: Cook the Reuben Balls
Option 1: Frying
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the balls in small batches for 2–3 minutes, until they are golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Option 3: Air Frying
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per 3 Balls with Sauce)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Serving Ideas
Serve Reuben Balls with:
- A side of pickled vegetables
- Coleslaw or potato salad
- Soft pretzels and mustard
- Craft beer, hard cider, or sparkling water
- A charcuterie board for a gourmet snack spread
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
| Task | How To Do It |
|---|---|
| Store in Fridge | Up to 4 days in an airtight container |
| Freeze Unbaked | Freeze for up to 2 months |
| Cook from Frozen | Add 3-4 minutes to cooking time |
| Reheat Leftovers | Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Mixture too wet | Drain sauerkraut fully |
| Balls fall apart while cooking | Chill the mixture longer |
| The frying oil not hot enough | Double-dip in egg and panko |
| The frying oil is not hot enough | Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F |
| Skipping the sauce | The sauce is essential for balance |
Expert Tips for Perfect Reuben Balls
- Use Leftover Corned Beef: This is a great recipe for St. Patrick’s Day leftovers.
- Chop the Ingredients Finely: a uniform size prevents the balls from falling apart.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether frying or baking, give them space to crisp.
- Adjust Sauce Heat Level: Add more or less hot sauce depending on your preference.
- Double-Coat for Crunch: Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for extra crispiness.
Tasty Variations
| Variation | Swap or Add |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free breadcrumbs |
| Vegetarian | Replace corned beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat |
| Different Cheese | Try provolone or sharp cheddar |
| Extra Heat | Add jalapeños to the mix |
FAQs About Reuben Balls
Can I make them in advance?
Yes! Prepare the balls and freeze them unbaked. Cook straight from the freezer when ready.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. They’ll still get crispy when baked at high heat.
What if I don’t like sauerkraut?
Use finely chopped pickles for a less tangy version.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
The spicy Thousand Island sauce is recommended, but you can also try ranch, blue cheese, or sriracha mayo.
Are Reuben Balls good for meal prep?
Yes! They store well and reheat without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love These Reuben Balls
If you’re searching for a bar-style appetizer that goes beyond basic snacks, these Irresistible Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce are the ultimate solution.
They’re:
- Crispy and creamy
- Savory and tangy
- Simple yet gourmet
- Perfect for parties or casual dinners
Once you serve them, don’t be surprised if they vanish within minutes. Whether it’s game night, a family gathering, or just Tuesday night cravings, these Reuben Balls will quickly become your go-to appetizer.
