Description
These Reuben Balls are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic Reuben sandwich! Packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and seasoned breadcrumbs, these crispy meatballs are perfect for dipping in a spicy Thousand Island sauce. They’re great as appetizers, snacks, or party food and will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 lb corned beef (cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup Swiss cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup sauerkraut (drained and finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon relish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Reuben Balls: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 20-25 meatballs, depending on the size.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the meatballs are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, relish, hot sauce, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more hot sauce for extra spice.
- Serve: Arrange the Reuben Balls on a platter and serve with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a healthier version, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Feel free to add more or less hot sauce in the dipping sauce, depending on your desired spice level.
- The Reuben Balls can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before frying. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 meatballs)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg