If you love classic Reuben flavors, you’ll adore Reuben Balls! These bite-sized treats combine delicious corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, all rolled into crispy bites. Plus, I’ll show you how to whip up a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce that takes these snacks to the next level. Perfect for game day or any gathering, these easy-to-make balls will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Reuben Balls
– 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Breading
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
Ingredients for the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Making Reuben Balls is fun and easy. First, gather your main ingredients. You need corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese. Each adds a unique taste. The corned beef gives a savory flavor, while the sauerkraut adds a nice tang. Swiss cheese brings creaminess, and cream cheese helps bind everything together.
Next, we need seasonings and breading. Dijon mustard adds a kick, while garlic powder gives depth. Black pepper adds warmth. Panko breadcrumbs will give your Reuben Balls a crispy outside. You will coat the balls with beaten eggs before rolling them in the breadcrumbs.
For the spicy dipping sauce, mix mayonnaise and ketchup for creaminess. Horseradish sauce adds heat, and hot sauce makes it even spicier. Adjust the hot sauce to your taste. Add salt and pepper to finish.
This is all you need for a great recipe. For the full recipe, check out the instructions later on!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Reuben Balls Filling
To start, grab a large bowl. Combine the following ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
Mix everything well. You want all the flavors to blend nicely.
Forming and Coating the Balls
Next, take about a tablespoon of the mixture. Roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball on a tray as you go. Repeat this step until you use up all the mixture.
Now, set up a breading station. In one bowl, place the breadcrumbs. In another bowl, pour the beaten eggs. Dip each ball in the eggs first, then roll it in the breadcrumbs. Make sure they are fully coated.
Frying the Reuben Balls
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the breaded balls in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. After frying, remove them and drain on paper towels.
Preparing the Dipping Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the following for the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Stir well to combine. Adjust the flavors to fit your taste.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy making these tasty Reuben Balls!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Consistency
To get the right texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened. This step helps mix the filling smoothly. If you want more flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add a bit more garlic powder or pepper if you like it spicier.
Frying Techniques
When frying, use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. The right heat keeps the Reuben Balls from being soggy. Aim for a temperature around 350°F (175°C). Remember, do not overcrowd the frying pot. This step ensures each ball cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden color.
Serving Recommendations
For the best taste and texture, serve the Reuben Balls warm. Cold balls lose their crunch and flavor. You can also add extra sides like pickles or coleslaw. These pair well with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce and enhance the meal.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily switch up the ingredients in Reuben Balls. If you want a lighter option, use turkey or chicken instead of corned beef. Both will still give you that great taste. For the cheese, consider using Gruyère or cheddar. These options add a unique twist while keeping it delicious.
Vegan or Vegetarian Options
If you prefer a vegan or vegetarian dish, you have tasty choices. Tempeh or mushrooms can replace the meat while adding a nice texture. For the cheese, use vegan cream cheese. You can also swap the eggs for alternatives like flaxseed meal mixed with water. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
Spicier Dipping Sauce
Love heat? You can make the dipping sauce even spicier. Just increase the amount of hot sauce to your taste. For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños. This will take the flavor to a whole new level, making your Reuben Balls even more exciting!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate your leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days. This helps keep them safe to eat and tasty for later meals.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze uncooked Reuben Balls for up to 2 months. Just place them on a tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator before frying. This way, you can have a quick treat whenever you want!
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer. This method helps restore their crispiness. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for about 10 minutes. If using an air fryer, set it to 375°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy them warm and crunchy, just like when they were first made!
FAQs
What are Reuben Balls?
Reuben balls are tasty bites inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich. They combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese. I love how the flavors blend together. You get a crispy outside and a warm, cheesy inside. This dish is fun to make and even more fun to eat. They are perfect for parties or game days.
Can I make the Dipping Sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the dipping sauce ahead of time. Just mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge. This sauce gets better as it sits. It saves time when you are ready to serve. Just remember to stir it again before serving.
How can I make the recipe gluten-free?
To make Reuben balls gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Check the labels on your sauces and mayonnaise. Many brands now offer gluten-free options. Just swap them in, and you can enjoy this dish without worry.
What can I serve with Reuben Balls?
Reuben balls pair well with various sides. Try serving pickles or potato chips for crunch. A fresh salad can lighten up the meal. You might also serve them with some extra spicy dipping sauce on the side. These options make your meal more fun and flavorful. For the full recipe, check out the main article.
Reuben balls combine classic flavors in a fun, bite-sized treat. We covered each step, from gathering ingredients to frying them to perfection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations or dips. Remember, they are best served warm and crispy. Store leftovers for quick snacks later. Enjoy this tasty dish that brings a twist to the familiar Reuben sandwich!
