I still remember the first time I experimented with transforming the classic Reuben sandwich into bite-sized delights. I wanted something that captured all the flavors I love—savory turkey bacon, tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese—but in a fun, snackable form perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. That’s how these Reuben Balls were born. Each ball is packed with rich, layered flavors that remind me of why I fell in love with cooking in the first place.
You will love this recipe because it takes all the delicious elements of a Reuben sandwich and turns them into a crispy, golden appetizer that’s satisfying and fun to eat. The combination of textures—from the crunchy breadcrumb coating to the soft, cheesy interior—is simply irresistible. The accompanying spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce elevates every bite, adding a creamy tangy punch that keeps you coming back for more.
What makes these Reuben Balls even better is their versatility. They are perfect as party appetizers, game-day snacks, or even a quick snack for yourself. You can also make them ahead of time and freeze them, then bake them fresh whenever you need a crowd-pleaser. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, from fresh greens to hearty soups, making them suitable for many occasions.
Despite their gourmet taste, this recipe is surprisingly affordable. With simple ingredients like chicken ham, turkey bacon, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, you can create an appetizer that looks and tastes impressive without spending a fortune. These are a great choice if you want to entertain without breaking the bank.
Ingredients for Reuben Balls:
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1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
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1/2 cup chicken ham, finely chopped
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4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
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1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
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2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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2 cups breadcrumbs
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2 eggs, beaten
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Vegetable oil for frying
Ingredients for Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
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1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Prepare Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
Preparing these Reuben Balls is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. The key is to combine all the ingredients thoughtfully so every bite is flavorful and balanced. Follow these step-by-step instructions carefully to ensure crispy, golden exteriors and soft, cheesy interiors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped corned beef, chicken ham, crumbled turkey bacon, chopped sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, and cooled mashed potatoes. Season the mixture with black pepper and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Shape the balls: Take a small handful of the mixture and roll it gently between your palms to form balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed balls on a tray lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make handling easier.
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Coat the balls: Set up a breading station with two shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs and the other with breadcrumbs. Dip each ball first into the eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until evenly covered. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg-and-breadcrumb coating once more.
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Chill before frying: Arrange the coated balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the balls hold their shape during frying, preventing them from falling apart.
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Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
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Fry the balls: Carefully add a few balls at a time to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the dipping sauce: While the balls are frying, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste by adding more or less hot sauce.
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Serve immediately: Arrange the Reuben Balls on a serving platter with a small bowl of the spicy Thousand Island sauce. Serve while warm to enjoy the perfect contrast of crispy exterior and melty interior.
Quick and Easy Tips
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You can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Roll and coat the balls just before frying for convenience.
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If you prefer baking over frying, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes or until golden, turning halfway through.
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For extra flavor, sprinkle the balls lightly with smoked paprika or Parmesan before frying.
Customizable Options
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Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.
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Add a pinch of mustard powder or horseradish to the filling for a tangy kick.
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Adjust the dipping sauce to be milder or spicier depending on your preference.
Popular With Many People
These Reuben Balls are a crowd favorite at parties, game days, or family gatherings. Their bite-sized format makes them perfect for sharing, and the combination of flavors is universally appealing. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even part of a main meal, they always disappear quickly.
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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
These Reuben Balls capture all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a fun, bite-sized appetizer. Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, they are perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. The accompanying spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce adds a creamy tang that complements the savory filling beautifully.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 1x
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken ham, finely chopped
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine corned beef, chicken ham, turkey bacon, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cooled mashed potatoes. Season with black pepper and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into 1–1.5 inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Set up a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and breadcrumbs in another. Dip each ball in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for extra crunch if desired.
- Chill the coated balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and brown quickly.
- Fry the balls in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the dipping sauce by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
- Serve the Reuben Balls warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
For a healthier alternative, bake the balls at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
Make the filling a day in advance for convenience. Coat and fry just before serving.
Adjust the spiciness of the dipping sauce to taste.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 15
FAQs
1. Can I make Reuben Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and even shape the balls a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and coat them with breadcrumbs just before frying to maintain the best texture.
2. Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the balls on a parchment-lined sheet for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway through. Baking will give a slightly different texture but still delicious results.
3. Can I use frozen mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they are fully thawed and slightly firm. Avoid using overly watery mashed potatoes, which may make the balls fall apart.
4. How can I make them spicier?
You can add more hot sauce to the Thousand Island dipping sauce or mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling. Adjust gradually to reach your desired heat level.
5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure any other ingredients, like sauces or seasonings, are gluten-free. They will fry or bake just as well.
6. How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.