Nora
Golden, crispy, and packed with all the savory flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the ultimate appetizer or party bite. Each crunchy ball is loaded with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all held together with a creamy base, then fried to perfection. Paired with a zesty Thousand Island sauce with a touch of spice, they’re as addictive as they are satisfying.
Perfect for game nights, holiday gatherings, or when you simply want to impress your guests, these bites are a playful twist on a beloved deli classic. They deliver the same bold flavors of a Reuben sandwich but in a fun, finger-food form that makes them perfect for dipping and sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Reuben Balls Recipe
- Crispy outside, gooey inside – That perfect bite with crunch and melty cheese.
- Bold Reuben flavors – All the classics: corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and sauce.
- Party-perfect – Easy to pick up and dip, making them great for any gathering.
- Make-ahead friendly – Prep them in advance and fry when ready to serve.
What Kind of Corned Beef Should I Use?
The beauty of these Reuben Balls is that you can work with what you have on hand. Deli-sliced corned beef gives you a tender, easy-to-chop option, while leftover corned beef brisket (like from St. Patrick’s Day) adds a richer, heartier flavor. Either way, you’ll end up with bites that are flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients for the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building that classic Reuben flavor in bite-sized form.
- Corned Beef – Chopped small for meaty, savory bites.
- Swiss Cheese – Adds gooey meltiness and tangy depth.
- Sauerkraut – Brings crunch and tang. Be sure it’s drained well.
- Cream Cheese – Binds the filling and makes it creamy.
- Breadcrumbs – Used inside for structure and outside for crisp coating.
- Eggs – Act as a binder and help the coating stick.
- Flour – Creates a base layer for dredging.
- Oil for Frying – Neutral oil like vegetable or canola ensures golden crispness.
- Thousand Island Dressing – Base of the dipping sauce.
- Hot Sauce or Chili Paste – Gives the dipping sauce a spicy edge.
How To Make the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Combine chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, cream cheese, and a bit of breadcrumbs in a bowl. Mix until sticky and well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Scoop mixture and roll into bite-sized balls. Place them on a lined tray and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
Set up dredging bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Fry the Balls
Heat oil to 350°F. Fry in small batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
Combine Thousand Island dressing with hot sauce or chili paste. Adjust spice to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the hot, crispy balls with the spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Serving and Storing Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
This recipe yields around 20–24 Reuben Balls, making it a perfect appetizer for 6–8 people. They’re best served hot and crispy, fresh from the fryer. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until warm and crunchy again. For long-term storage, freeze them after breading but before frying; just let them thaw slightly before cooking.
What to Serve With Reuben Balls?
Classic Fries or Potato Wedges
A crunchy side that doubles the comfort-food feel.
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables
Their tart bite cuts through the richness of the balls.
A Fresh Green Salad
Light, crisp greens with vinaigrette balance out the indulgence.
Pretzel Bites with Mustard Dip
Keep the pub-food fun going with this pairing.
Tomato Soup
Turn it into a cozy meal by adding a warm soup.
Beer or Sparkling Water
Refreshing sips help cleanse the palate.
Soft Rye Bread Slices
A nod to the traditional Reuben sandwich foundation.
Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Twist?
If these Reuben Balls hit the spot, you’ll love these other crowd-pleasing favorites too:
- Taco Ranch Bites – A Flavor-Packed Mini Delight for Tex-Mex flavors in a bite.
- Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a juicy, cheesy burst of burger taste.
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes when you crave pizza in a fun mini form.
- Crispy Fried Mushrooms for an earthy, golden classic snack.
- Garlic Butter Meatballs with Parmesan Penne if you want a comforting, hearty bite.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Pin this recipe to your appetizer board so it’s ready for your next party or cozy night in.
I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you spice up the sauce more? Did you try baking instead of frying? Share your take in the comments—I always enjoy seeing the creative spins readers put on these recipes.
Discover even more delicious appetizer ideas on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next crowd favorite.
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Tray
- Deep fryer or skillet
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped corned beef
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 0.5 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 0.5 cup flour
- 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying
- 0.5 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tbsp hot sauce or chili paste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
- Roll mixture into bite-sized balls and chill for 30 minutes.
- Set up breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each ball accordingly.
- Heat oil to 350°F and fry balls until golden brown, 3–4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Mix Thousand Island dressing with hot sauce or chili paste.
- Serve Reuben Balls hot with dipping sauce.