Reuben Balls with Dipping Sauce

Crispy golden spheres filled with melty Swiss cheese, savory corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut deliver all the beloved flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in perfect bite-sized form. These irresistible appetizers paired with spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce will disappear from your party platter faster than you can say "delicatessen."

I first experimented with these Reuben balls when looking for creative ways to use leftover St. Patrick's Day corned beef. After watching my usually reserved father-in-law reach for his fourth ball while mumbling "these are dangerous," I knew I'd struck culinary gold. What makes them truly special is how they concentrate all those classic Reuben flavors into one perfect bite while adding the satisfying textural contrast of the crispy coating.

Flavor Foundations

• Corned beef: Provides savory, salty foundation and distinctive flavor
• Sauerkraut: Contributes essential tanginess that defines Reuben flavor profile
• Swiss cheese: Creates melty, gooey interior with mild nutty flavor
• Cream cheese: Binds ingredients while adding richness and creamy texture
• Dijon mustard: Adds subtle sharpness that enhances other flavors
• Breadcrumb coating: Creates crispy exterior that contrasts with the soft filling
• Thousand Island sauce: Delivers classic Reuben condiment with added spicy kick

My personal discovery after making these countless times is properly draining the sauerkraut makes all the difference in the final texture. The first time I served these at a neighborhood gathering, a typically quiet neighbor cornered me in the kitchen demanding the recipe - they truly make that kind of impression.

Creation Process

Prepare flavorful mixture:

Combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese and Dijon until thoroughly incorporated.

Chill for structure:

Refrigerate mixture for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to firm up for easier handling.

Form perfect portions:

Roll chilled mixture into uniform 1-inch balls, maintaining consistent size for even cooking.

Create crispy coating:

Dredge each ball in flour, then egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

Transform with heat:

Fry in batches at 350°F until golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per batch.

Drain excess oil:

Remove finished balls to paper towel-lined plate to maintain perfect crispness.

Craft complementary sauce:

Whisk together mayo, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika for perfect dipping consistency.

Serve strategically:

Arrange warm balls around sauce bowl, creating an inviting and accessible presentation.

I've found these Reuben balls create immediate conversation at any gathering. The familiar flavors in unexpected form spark both nostalgia and excitement. During one memorable holiday party, I watched two guests who had just met bond enthusiastically over their shared love of these appetizers - that's when you know a recipe has special power to bring people together.

Serving Suggestions

• Present alongside other miniaturized sandwich-inspired appetizers for a creative party theme that guests will remember.
• Serve as part of a St. Patrick's Day spread, using leftover corned beef for delicious next-day transformation.
• Arrange on wooden board with small bowl of dipping sauce in center for casual elegance at cocktail gatherings.

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Creative Variations

• Substitute pastrami for corned beef and Gruyère for Swiss to create a "Rachel Ball" variation with different flavor profile.
• Add caraway seeds to breadcrumb mixture for authentic rye bread flavor notes in the crispy coating.
• Incorporate finely chopped pickles into the filling mixture for extra tanginess and textural interest.

Storage Solutions

• Refrigerate cooked balls in airtight container for up to three days, reheating in oven for restored crispness.
• Freeze uncooked, breaded balls on baking sheet before transferring to freezer bag for up to one month.
• Make sauce in advance and refrigerate separately for up to five days, allowing flavors to deepen and meld.

The magic of these Reuben balls lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. They transform a beloved sandwich into something both familiar and entirely new, making them ideal for everything from casual gatherings to more elegant cocktail parties. The spicy dipping sauce provides the perfect complement, cutting through the richness with tangy heat that keeps everyone reaching for "just one more." I've found myself making double batches after learning the hard way that they disappear faster than almost any other appetizer in my repertoire.

The Perfect Bite

• Each Reuben ball delivers the ideal ratio of ingredients, ensuring every bite contains the complete flavor experience of a classic Reuben sandwich.
• The concentrated flavors intensify the familiar taste while the crispy exterior adds an element not found in the traditional sandwich.
• The contrast between hot, crispy balls and cool, creamy dipping sauce creates a sensory experience that makes these appetizers truly memorable.

Make-Ahead Strategies

• Prepare filling mixture up to two days ahead, keeping refrigerated until ready to form and fry.
• Roll and bread balls the day before serving, arranging in single layer on baking sheet and refrigerating covered.
• Fry just before guests arrive for that perfect fresh-from-the-kitchen experience that fills your home with enticing aroma.

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Party Planning

• Calculate 3-4 balls per person when serving as part of larger appetizer spread, more if they're the main offering.
• Consider making double batch for larger gatherings - these disappear quickly and generate many requests for seconds.
• Keep a batch warm in 200°F oven during extended serving periods to maintain optimal temperature and texture.

Chef's Reflections

What I find most remarkable about these Reuben balls is how they celebrate the essence of home cooking - transforming familiar ingredients into something surprising and delightful. They remind me that creativity in the kitchen often comes from reimagining what we already love in new and exciting ways.

I've prepared these for casual family gatherings and more formal cocktail parties alike, always with the same enthusiastic reception. There's something deeply satisfying about watching people experience that first bite - the moment when the crisp exterior gives way to the melty, flavorful center. In our increasingly complex food landscape, these Reuben balls represent what I love most about cooking - the ability to create moments of genuine connection and joy through thoughtful reinvention of classic flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won't be quite as crispy as fried, but still delicious.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the balls through the breading stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying, or freeze the cooked balls for up to a month.

→ What can I substitute for corned beef?

Pastrami works perfectly as a substitute. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken can work, though the flavor profile will be different.

→ Can I make these less spicy?

Simply omit the hot sauce from the dipping sauce for a milder version that's still delicious.

→ What sides pair well with Reuben Balls?

They pair wonderfully with pickle spears, potato chips, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.