Crispy Reuben Balls capture all the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut—wrapped into bite-sized, golden-fried perfection. Paired with a spicy Thousand Island-style dipping sauce, these savory appetizers are ideal for game day, parties, or indulgent snack spreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the Reuben Flavor in One Bite – Corned beef, Swiss, and sauerkraut in crispy form.
• Perfect Party Appetizer – Bite-sized and easy to serve.
• Golden Crunchy Coating – Rye breadcrumbs add authentic flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill before frying for easy prep.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust horseradish and hot sauce.
• Air Fryer Option Available – Lighter alternative to deep frying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Filling

• 2 cups corned beef, finely chopped – Use freshly sliced deli meat for best texture and flavor.
• 1 cup sauerkraut, well-drained – Prevents soggy filling and adds tang.
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, diced (or Gruyère) – Melts into creamy pockets.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Binds filling and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds aromatic balance.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Boosts flavor.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle heat.

Coating

• 1 cup rye breadcrumbs (or panko) – Provides crisp exterior and traditional flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend) – First dredging layer for adhesion.
• 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps breadcrumbs adhere.

Frying

• 4 cups vegetable oil – For deep frying at 350°F.

Spicy Thousand Island Dip

• 1 cup mayonnaise – Creamy base.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup – Sweet balance.
• 1 tablespoon horseradish – Zesty kick.
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce – Adds heat.
• 1 tablespoon sweet relish – Sweet-tangy contrast.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Smoky depth.
• Pinch salt – Enhances overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.

Form and Chill

Roll mixture into walnut-sized balls (about 1½ inches). Place on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Set Up Breading Station

Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with rye breadcrumbs.

Bread the Balls

Dredge each chilled ball in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure coating adheres.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintain consistent temperature to ensure even frying.

Fry Until Golden

Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, relish, smoked paprika, and salt. Chill until serving.

Serve Hot

Serve crispy Reuben Balls warm alongside the spicy dipping sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Drain Sauerkraut Thoroughly – Excess moisture causes splitting.
• Chill Before Frying – Helps balls maintain shape.
• Monitor Oil Temperature – Too hot burns coating; too cool makes greasy.
• Fry in Batches – Prevents temperature drop.
• Air Fryer Option – Spray lightly with oil and cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
• Use Fresh Deli Corned Beef – Superior flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 balls (2 per serving)
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg

(Values are approximate.)

Perfect Pairings

• Pickle Spears – Classic Reuben complement.
• Coleslaw – Fresh crunch.
• Crispy Potato Wedges – Hearty side.
• Cold Beer or Iced Tea – Refreshing contrast.

Ideal Occasions

• Game Day Snacks – Crowd-pleasing finger food.
• Holiday Appetizers – Unique twist on deli favorite.
• Potluck Events – Easy to transport and serve.
• Casual Entertaining – Fun, shareable bites.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers Up to 3 Days – Store airtight.
• Reheat in Oven at 375°F for 8–10 Minutes – Restores crispness.
• Avoid Microwave – Softens coating.
• Freeze Uncooked Balls – Freeze solid before frying for later use.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Jalapeño Version – Add diced jalapeños to filling.
• Turkey Reuben Balls – Substitute corned beef with smoked turkey.
• Extra Cheesy Center – Add cube of Swiss inside each ball.
• Baked Version – Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes until golden.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Balls Falling Apart – Ensure adequate chilling time.
• Greasy Texture – Oil temperature likely too low.
• Bursting While Frying – Sauerkraut may not be drained well.
• Uneven Browning – Rotate balls gently during frying.

Why This Recipe Works

Cream cheese binds the filling, creating a cohesive structure that holds together when fried. Chilling firms the mixture, reducing separation during cooking. Rye breadcrumbs enhance authenticity while delivering crisp texture. Frying at 350°F ensures the coating browns quickly before the interior overcooks, creating a crisp exterior and molten center. At roughly 320 calories per serving, these bites provide indulgent flavor in manageable portions.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Reuben Balls are a fun, crave-worthy twist on the beloved deli sandwich. With their golden crust, creamy filling, and spicy dipping sauce, they’re guaranteed to impress guests and satisfy comfort food cravings. Serve them hot, dip generously, and enjoy every flavorful bite.