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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

Delicious and crispy Reuben Balls packed with flavorful corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, served with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, these bite-sized treats combine classic Reuben sandwich flavors into a fun, fried ball.

Ingredients

Scale

Reuben Balls

  • 1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped or shredded corned beef, drained and squeezed dry sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
  2. Form the Balls: Once chilled, scoop the mixture into 1-inch portions and roll each portion into tight balls. Place the formed balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate again to keep them firm for easier breading.
  3. Bread the Balls: Prepare three separate stations: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each ball evenly in all-purpose flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated for a crispy exterior.
  4. Fry the Balls: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded balls in small batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn occasionally to ensure an even, golden-brown, and crispy crust. Once done, remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more hot sauce if desired.
  6. Serve: Arrange the hot Reuben Balls on a serving platter alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this flavorful appetizer.

Notes

  • Make sure to squeeze the sauerkraut dry to prevent excess moisture which can affect the texture of the balls.
  • Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs can be used.
  • Adjust the heat level in the dipping sauce by adding more or less hot sauce according to your preference.
  • Keep the balls chilled before frying to help them hold their shape during cooking.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F for perfect frying results.
  • Leftover Reuben Balls can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Reuben Balls, Corned Beef Appetizer, Fried Snacks, Thousand Island Sauce, Party Food, Crispy Cheese Balls

Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/reuben-balls-with-spicy-thousand-island-dipping-sauce-recipe/