Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
The Best Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are golden fried bites filled with classic Reuben flavors and served with a creamy tangy dip.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings (about 20 balls)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Reuben Balls
1 ½ cups corned beef, finely chopped
1 cup sauerkraut, well drained
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
2 cups mashed potatoes
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
Neutral oil, for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce or Sriracha
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Finely chop the corned beef and ensure the sauerkraut is thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture.
In a large bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, and shredded Swiss cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
Using a scoop or your hands, form the mixture into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them firm up.
Prepare a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the balls in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the fried balls to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve the Reuben balls hot with the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
Make sure the sauerkraut is very well drained to prevent the balls from falling apart.
Chilling the mixture before breading helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
These can also be air-fried at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until crispy.
Great for game day snacks, party appetizers, or holiday platters.
