Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Take all the bold, briny, cheesy flavor of a classic Reuben sandwich, roll it into a crispy, crave-worthy bite, and what do you get? Reuben balls. These golden nuggets are packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, then fried to a perfect crunch and served with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce that kicks things up a notch.

Whether you’re prepping for game day, throwing a party, or just want a creative way to use up leftover deli meats, this recipe brings the wow factor. Reuben balls are addictive little appetizers that disappear faster than you can make them. Serve them hot and watch the crowd go wild.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Balls Recipe

This recipe is a playful twist on a beloved sandwich that hits all the right notes. You get the salty corned beef, creamy Swiss, the tang of sauerkraut, and a crispy breadcrumb shell that gives a satisfying crunch with every bite. The spicy dipping sauce adds just enough heat to balance the richness.

They are also make-ahead friendly. You can prepare the balls in advance and fry them up fresh when guests arrive. Plus, they’re a fantastic conversation starter. Once someone pops one, everyone else follows.

What Kind of Corned Beef Should I Use?

You can use leftover homemade corned beef, but thick-cut deli-style corned beef works perfectly too. Ask your butcher to slice it thick so you can easily dice it up. If you’re using deli meat, go for a high-quality brand with good marbling—it makes a difference. Avoid the ultra-thin slices, as they won’t give the Reuben balls that hearty, meaty bite you’re after.

Ingredients for the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben balls are made with simple yet powerful ingredients that come together for a truly memorable bite. Each one plays an important role in achieving that iconic Reuben flavor with a crispy twist. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Corned beef – The star of the show. Dice it finely so you get bits in every bite.
• Swiss cheese – Melts beautifully and adds the signature creaminess that balances the saltiness of the beef.
• Sauerkraut – Adds a briny tang that cuts through the richness. Make sure to drain and pat it dry so the balls hold together.
• Cream cheese – Acts as a binder and gives a rich, creamy texture to the filling.
• Garlic powder – Adds subtle depth and warmth.
• Onion powder – Enhances the savory notes.
• All-purpose flour – Helps shape the balls and gives structure.
• Eggs – Used for dredging to help the coating stick.
• Breadcrumbs (Panko preferred) – For that super crispy exterior.
• Oil for frying – Choose something neutral like vegetable or canola oil.

For the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce:

• Mayonnaise – The creamy base.
• Ketchup – Adds a sweet and tangy element.
• Prepared horseradish – Brings the heat.
• Dill pickle relish – Adds texture and tang.
• Hot sauce – Optional but recommended if you like it spicy.

How To Make the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine diced corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until fully combined and the mixture holds together when scooped.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place on a tray and chill in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Bread the Balls

Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Repeat for all.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

Stir together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, relish, and hot sauce until well blended. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the hot Reuben balls with the spicy dipping sauce and watch them disappear fast!

How to Serve and Store Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

These Reuben balls are the perfect appetizer for sharing, and they make a bold statement on any snack table. They’re best served hot and crispy, right after frying, paired with the cool and spicy dipping sauce. This recipe makes about 20 balls, which feeds 6 to 8 people as an appetizer.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again—avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delicious crunch.

You can also freeze the uncooked balls after breading. Just flash freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, just add an extra minute or two to the cook time.

What to Serve With Reuben Balls?

Classic Potato Salad

The creaminess and slight tang of potato salad balance the richness of the Reuben balls.

Dill Pickle Spears

Crisp, cold, and vinegary—a natural match to the Reuben flavor profile.

Pretzel Bites

Add to the snack table for a pub-style spread.

Deviled Eggs

Another crowd-pleasing finger food that contrasts nicely in texture.

Cajun Potato Soup

Pair with a warm, hearty soup like Cajun Potato Soup to create a cozy and satisfying combo.

Sauerkraut Slaw

Bright, acidic, and cabbage-forward—this plays up the flavors in the Reuben balls.

Beer Cheese Dip

Offer another dipping option for variety. A creamy cheese dip always goes fast.

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

The cool creaminess of Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad makes an ideal pairing for game day or summer parties.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you loved these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, you’ll definitely want to try some of these other irresistible bites from the blog:

• Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly if you enjoy heat and cheese in perfect harmony.
• Creamy Corn Dip for a scoopable snack that’s always a crowd favorite.
• Cajun Potato Soup as a warm and spicy partner to these crispy bites.
• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad to cool things down and round out a party platter.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli when you’re ready to turn snack time into mealtime.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make the dipping sauce spicier? Try baking them instead of frying?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other snack smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and delicious daily eats on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen obsession: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a fun, flavorful, and crunchy way to remix a deli favorite into an unforgettable party snack. With their creamy, tangy filling and crispy shell, they’re bound to be the first thing to vanish from the table. Keep the ingredients on hand, because once you try them, you’ll be making these on repeat.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?