Reuben Balls with Dipping Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Reuben Balls are a fun and tasty twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, combining corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese into crispy, flavorful bites. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they come with a delicious dipping sauce to complement every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Optional: dipping sauce of your choice (e.g., Thousand Island or Russian dressing)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Alternatively, heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet if frying.
- Step 4: Bake the balls for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy, or fry them in hot oil until they are evenly browned. Drain on paper towels if frying.
- Step 5: Serve warm with your preferred dipping sauce for the best flavor experience.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, roll the balls in additional breadcrumbs before baking or frying.
- Mix in a little Dijon mustard or horseradish to the mixture for a zesty kick.
- Try substituting Swiss cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
Storage
Store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness, or microwave briefly if short on time.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Reuben Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls in advance. Store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What is the best dipping sauce for Reuben Balls?
Traditional options include Thousand Island or Russian dressing, but you can also use spicy mustard, creamy horseradish sauce, or even a simple ranch dip depending on your taste.
PrintReuben Balls with Dipping Sauce Recipe
Reuben Balls with Dipping Sauce are a delicious appetizer that combines classic Reuben sandwich flavors into crispy, bite-sized balls. Made with corned beef, sauerkraut, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these flavorful morsels are baked or fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy dipping sauce, perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (baking) or 4 minutes (frying)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Reuben Balls
- 1 cup finely chopped corned beef
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying (if frying method chosen)
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls ensuring they are packed firmly so they hold their shape during cooking.
- Choose cooking method: For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the Reuben balls on a lined baking sheet. For frying, heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Reuben balls: If baking, bake the balls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, turning halfway for even crispness. If frying, carefully add balls to hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Arrange the warm Reuben balls on a serving platter alongside the dipping sauce. Enjoy immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Drain sauerkraut well to prevent soggy balls.
- Use Swiss cheese for an authentic Reuben flavor; Gruyere can be a substitute.
- Baking is a healthier alternative to frying.
- Adjust horseradish quantity in the sauce according to your spice preference.
- These can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving.
Keywords: Reuben Balls, Appetizer, Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, Cheese, Party Food
