Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Sauce: A Flavor Bomb

reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce 2

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce! They’re like a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic Reuben sandwich that we all know and love. Imagine the savory flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese all rolled into delicious little balls. I can’t help but smile when I think about serving these at gatherings – they disappear faster than I can make them! The spicy dipping sauce adds an extra kick that takes these appetizers to a whole new level. Trust me, whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving something satisfying, these little bites will be the star of the show. Get ready for some serious flavor and fun!

reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce 2 - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 cup corned beef, chopped
1 cup sauerkraut, drained
1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Oil for frying
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon horseradish
1 tablespoon hot sauce

How to Prepare Instructions

Making these reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce is such a fun and straightforward process! I promise you’ll love how simple it is to whip these up. Let’s dive right in!

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

First off, grab a big mixing bowl and throw in that chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. I love using my hands for this—there’s just something about getting in there and mixing that makes it feel extra special!
Now, it’s time to form the mixture into balls. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about being perfect; they’ll still taste amazing! Just make sure they’re tightly packed so they hold together while frying.
Next, heat up some oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll want about half an inch of oil so those balls can get nice and crispy. Let the oil heat up—just a little tip: you can test it by dropping in a tiny bit of the mixture; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Carefully place the Reuben balls in the hot oil, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown all over. Trust me, the smell is going to be heavenly, and you’ll want to keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
While those are frying, let’s whip up the spicy dipping sauce in a separate bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and hot sauce. Mix until everything is blended together and adjust the spice level to your liking. You can even have fun with it by adding more hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
Once the Reuben balls are golden and crispy, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with the spicy dipping sauce on the side, and watch them disappear!

Nutritional Information

It’s always good to know what you’re munching on, right? Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. I find it helpful to keep this in mind when I’m cooking. Here’s what you can expect per serving (which is about 4 Reuben balls):

Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 60mg

So, while these tasty bites are definitely indulgent, they pack in some protein too! Enjoy them as a fun appetizer, but remember to balance it out with some healthier options throughout the day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a fun twist on the classic Reuben sandwich that everyone will love!
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Full of bold flavors from the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese that pack a punch!
Gluten-free option available, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Customizable spice level in the dipping sauce—add as much or as little heat as you like!
Great for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
Perfect finger food—ideal for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you achieve the best results:

Pack ‘em tight: When you’re forming the balls, make sure to pack the mixture tightly. This helps them hold their shape while frying and ensures you get that satisfying crunch on the outside!
Adjust the heat: If you’re not a fan of too much spice, feel free to dial down the hot sauce in the dipping sauce. You can always start with a little and add more to taste—it’s all about what you enjoy!
Try baking: For a healthier alternative, you can bake these little gems instead of frying. Just preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. You won’t get the same crispy texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
Experiment with cheese: Don’t be afraid to mix up the cheese! Gouda or cheddar can add a different flavor profile that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Go wild with your favorite cheese!
Make ahead: If you’re prepping for a party, you can assemble the balls ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. Just remember to let them sit out for a few minutes before cooking to help them cook evenly.
Let them cool: After frying, allow the balls to cool for a minute before serving. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to dip into that spicy sauce!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most scrumptious reuben balls that everyone will be raving about. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about these reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce is how versatile they can be! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to shake things up:

Cheese Swap: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, why not try using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick? You could even mix different cheeses together for a delightful melty surprise!
Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. It’ll give your Reuben balls a refreshing twist that’s simply delicious!
Spicy Upgrade: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. It’ll add a nice zing that pairs perfectly with the savory ingredients.
Veggie Variation: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the corned beef with finely chopped mushrooms or tempeh. You can still use the sauerkraut and cheese for that signature Reuben taste!
Smoky Flavor: Want to add a smoky element? Mix in some smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the filling. It’ll give your Reuben balls a whole new dimension of flavor!
Different Dips: While the spicy thousand island is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other dipping sauces like a tangy mustard dip, ranch dressing, or even a creamy garlic aioli. The options are endless!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you tailor the recipe to your taste and the preferences of your guests. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up these amazing reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a delicious, well-rounded meal. Trust me, these pair beautifully with a variety of dishes!

Crispy Potato Wedges: Serve these golden-brown wedges on the side for a satisfying crunch. You can season them with garlic powder and paprika for an extra flavor boost!
Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw will complement the richness of the Reuben balls perfectly. The crunch and acidity will balance out the flavors beautifully!
Pickles: Don’t forget the pickles! A side of dill or bread-and-butter pickles adds a nice tang that pairs really well with the savory bites.
Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette can lighten up the meal. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta for added flavor!
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can be a great comfort food companion. The heartiness of the potatoes complements the crispy Reuben balls in a delightful way.
Beer or Cider: And let’s not forget about drinks! A cold beer or a refreshing cider would really enhance the whole experience. It’s a great match for the flavors going on!

These suggestions create a balanced meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. So, gather your friends and family, serve up those Reuben balls, and enjoy the feast together!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a batch of these scrumptious reuben balls with spicy thousand island dipping sauce, and now you’ve got some leftovers. No worries—storing them properly will keep them tasty for later! Here’s how I do it:

Storage: Allow the Reuben balls to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them solid first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last in the freezer for about 2 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best method to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread the Reuben balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. This method helps keep that delightful crunch!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave, but keep in mind they won’t be as crispy. Just pop them in for about 30 seconds to a minute, checking to make sure they’re warmed up but not getting rubbery.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious reuben balls again and again without losing any of that amazing flavor and texture. Happy snacking!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.