Name: Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup chopped corned beef; 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese; 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing; 2 tbsp hot sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Oil for frying

Golden, crispy, and oozing with melty cheese—these Reuben Balls are everything you love about a classic deli Reuben but in irresistible bite-sized form. Imagine tender corned beef tucked inside a creamy, cheesy filling, coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, and fried until crunchy on the outside. Pair them with a bold, zesty, and slightly fiery Thousand Island dipping sauce, and you’ve got a party snack that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you’re planning a game-day spread, a holiday appetizer table, or just a fun weekend cooking project, these Reuben Balls deliver a punch of flavor and nostalgia in every bite. They’re crowd-pleasers, kid-approved, and dangerously addictive—so you may want to make a double batch.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Mixing Bowls: For combining your corned beef, cheese, sauerkraut, and seasonings.

Sharp Chef’s Knife: For finely chopping corned beef and fresh herbs.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To balance flavors precisely.
Baking Sheet: To rest and firm the shaped balls before frying.

Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: For consistent golden frying.
Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: To lift the balls from oil without damaging the crust.
Paper Towels: For draining excess oil.

Ingredients for the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Corned Beef – Brings the signature Reuben flavor and hearty texture.
Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy pull.
Sauerkraut – Adds tangy brightness to balance the richness.

Cream Cheese – Binds ingredients together and adds creaminess.
Breadcrumbs – Create a crispy exterior.
Eggs – Help bind and coat for frying.

Flour – Forms the first layer of coating.
Thousand Island Dressing – The base of the dipping sauce.
Hot Sauce – Gives the sauce a spicy kick.

Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder for balance.

How To Make the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Mix chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and cream cheese until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Balls

Scoop small portions and roll them into balls, placing them on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Coat the Balls

Dredge each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Chill Before Frying

Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to help them hold shape during frying.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F. Fry balls in batches until golden and crisp.

Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce

Mix Thousand Island dressing with hot sauce and a pinch of garlic powder.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with spicy Thousand Island sauce for dipping.

Serving and Storing Your Reuben Balls

Serve these Reuben Balls hot for the best texture. Pair with extra sauce, fresh parsley, or pickles for a classic deli touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Shape and coat them, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze before or after frying. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?

Absolutely! It adds a smoky twist.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these Reuben Balls, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Air Fryer Cheesy Taco Bombs

Find even more irresistible snack ideas on my Pinterest page.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the cheese? Did you add extra heat to the sauce? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 20 balls

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy, cheesy Reuben Balls bring all the flavors of a classic deli Reuben into bite-sized appetizers, paired with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce for an irresistible snack or party treat.