Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you love all the bold flavors of a classic deli sandwich, you are going to go crazy for Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. These bite-sized pockets pack the perfect combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss and cream cheese, all encased in a crispy rye breadcrumb shell. And the star of the show? The zesty, slightly spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving them for a party appetizer or a fun family snack, these Reuben Balls deliver comforting deli goodness in every crunchy, melty bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce is simpler than you might think. Each component plays a vital role: from the hearty corned beef to the sharp Swiss cheese and that unforgettable spicy dipping sauce, these elements combine to create a delicious harmony of flavors and textures.

• Corned beef, chopped: Use good-quality, tender corned beef—it’s the savory backbone of the balls.
• Sauerkraut, drained and chopped: Adds a tangy bite and a bit of crunch that’s classic in Reuben flavor.
• Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts perfectly inside for that creamy, nutty note.
• Cream cheese: Binds the mixture and provides extra richness.
• Rye breadcrumbs: The coating that crisps to golden perfection and gives a nod to traditional rye bread.
• Egg: Helps the breading stick and keeps the balls together.
• Flour: For the initial dredge—it creates a light base layer for the breading.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola.
• Mayonnaise (for sauce): The creamy base giving smooth texture to the spicy Thousand Island.
• Ketchup (for sauce): Adds a sweet tang that balances the heat.
• Dijon mustard (for sauce): Gives a subtle sharpness and complexity.
• Hot sauce (for sauce): Essential for adding that spicy kick that wakes up the palate.
• Sweet pickle relish (for sauce): Brings bursts of sweetness and crunch to the dipping experience.

How to Make Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Filling

Begin by mixing the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, and cream cheese in a bowl until they’re thoroughly combined. This blend is the heart and soul of your Reuben Balls. Chilling this mixture for 30 minutes makes it easier to shape into balls and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Form the Balls

Once chilled, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a tray. Freezing the balls for 15 minutes firms them up, which helps them hold their shape during frying. This prep step makes frying much easier and less messy.

Step 3: Bread the Balls

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with rye breadcrumbs. Dredge each ball first in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with rye breadcrumbs. This triple-layer approach creates a wonderfully crisp, flavorful crust golden in color.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2–3 minutes or until they are beautifully golden and crisp on the outside. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This frying technique ensures a crunchy exterior that hides the melty, savory filling.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

While your balls are frying or cooling slightly, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and sweet pickle relish in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. Chill the sauce until serving for the best flavor and a cool contrast to the hot Reuben Balls.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your crispy, melty Reuben Balls piping hot alongside the spicy and tangy Thousand Island dipping sauce. This is pure flavor magic in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends or as a standout party appetizer everyone will rave about.

How to Serve Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes really elevate the presentation and taste. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or a little thinly sliced green onion over the top for a pop of color and freshness. A small slice of dill pickle on the side adds a traditional touch that complements the sauerkraut inside the balls.

Side Dishes

Reuben Balls pair wonderfully with classic sides like crisp potato chips, coleslaw, or even a simple mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness of the balls and keep the meal light and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider skewering a few Reuben Balls on cocktail sticks for an easy finger-food presentation. You could also serve them atop small rye toast rounds for an open-faced appetizer that echoes the traditional Reuben sandwich vibe. No matter the style, they’re sure to be the star attraction.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dipping sauce in a separate container to maintain its fresh, spicy zing. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the balls to bring back their crispy texture.

Freezing

Reuben Balls freeze beautifully before frying. Arrange the formed and breaded balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months and fry straight from frozen when you want a quick, delicious bite.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the balls in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crunch. Reheat sauce separately and serve warm alongside.

FAQs

Can I bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a lighter alternative. Arrange the breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crisp.

What kind of hot sauce works best in the dipping sauce?

Use your favorite hot sauce, but something with a balanced heat like Frank’s RedHot works beautifully. It adds the perfect spicy kick without overwhelming the sauce’s tangy sweetness.

Can I prepare Reuben Balls vegetarian-style?

While corned beef is traditional, you could swap it for finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based deli meat substitute. Just keep the sauerkraut and cheese to maintain that classic Reuben flavor profile.

How do I prevent the balls from falling apart during frying?

Chilling the filling before shaping and freezing the balls after rolling helps a lot. Also, make sure to bread them well with the flour, egg, and rye breadcrumbs steps—this coating seals the balls for frying.

Is the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce homemade or store-bought?

This recipe uses a homemade version, combining mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and sweet pickle relish for fresh and customizable flavor that’s brighter than store-bought varieties.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic deli favorite, you truly cannot go wrong with Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce. Crispy on the outside, warm and melty inside, bursting with that iconic Reuben flair and complemented by a dipping sauce with just the right amount of heat, this recipe will quickly become a cherished staple at your gatherings. Don’t wait to roll these up—the perfect party snack is just a few steps away!

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