Reuben Balls

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🧀 Introduction to Reuben Balls

If you love a classic Reuben sandwich—that savory mix of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread—then you’re going to fall hard for Reuben Balls. These bite-sized, crispy delights are everything you love about the original, conveniently packed into handheld appetizers that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re planning a game-day spread, prepping for a holiday party, or just want a new way to serve a favorite deli combo, Reuben Balls are a total crowd-pleaser.

What makes them shine is their versatility. You can make them ahead, freeze them, and reheat for last-minute guests. Pair them with a spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce for that signature creamy-tangy kick, and you’ve got a snack that vanishes faster than you can bake the next batch.

:Perfectly golden on the outside and melty in the middle, Reuben Balls are the modern twist your appetizer game has been waiting for.If you’re building a full spread, add in another crowd-pleaser like these savory salmon pinwheel appetizers or a colorful vegetable roll-up platter—both are great for guests with dietary restrictions or lighter appetites.

🥪 What Are Reuben Balls?

The beloved Reuben sandwich is steeped in American deli tradition, with roots that trace back to the early 1900s. While debates still swirl over whether it originated in New York or Nebraska, one thing is certain: its bold combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing has earned it a spot as a timeless favorite.

Transforming this iconic sandwich into Reuben Balls is part of a growing culinary trend—taking nostalgic comfort foods and reimagining them as bite-sized party fare. Think of them as the perfect hybrid between a savory appetizer and a familiar deli staple.

They gained popularity during St. Patrick’s Day festivities, when corned beef is already front and center in many kitchens. But their appeal extends far beyond March 17th. Whether baked in a cake pop pan or mini muffin tin, these crispy bites are a creative way to repurpose classic flavors for modern entertaining.cinating history rooted in American deli culture.

🔥 What Makes the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce So Addictive?

The dipping sauce that accompanies these Reuben Balls isn’t your average condiment. This homemade spicy Thousand Island dressing adds heat, creaminess, and zing that pulls all the ingredients together.

It’s made with:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Ketchup
  • Sweet relish
  • Horseradish
  • Onion and garlic powder

Want to go the extra mile? Check out this homemade Thousand Island dressing recipe for more customization tips.

🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce requires a blend of savory, tangy, and creamy components that come together in perfect harmony. Below is a full breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.

🧆 Ingredients for the Reuben Balls

These ingredients capture the essence of a traditional Reuben sandwich in a baked, bite-sized form:

  • 1 cup cooked corned beef, finely chopped – provides rich, meaty flavor
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped – adds a sharp, tangy bite
  • ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese – delivers creamy, nutty depth
  • 1 egg – binds the mixture together
  • 2 tbsp oil – adds moisture and helps with texture
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour – forms the base of the batter
    • Optional: Substitute ½ cup rye flour for more authentic flavor
  • 1 tsp baking powder & ½ tsp baking soda – ensure lightness and rise
  • Pinch of salt – balances the flavors
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds – mimics rye bread’s distinctive taste
  • ½ tsp paprika – adds subtle warmth and color

📝 Tip: Make sure the sauerkraut is well-drained and squeezed dry to avoid a soggy batter.

🔥 Ingredients for the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

This sauce elevates the entire experience with its creamy heat and zesty profile:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise – creamy base
  • ¼ cup ketchup – adds sweetness and color
  • 2 tsp sweet pickle relish – brings a tangy crunch
  • 1 tsp prepared horseradish – adds kick
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

You can mix and chill the sauce ahead of time to let the flavors fully develop. It’s the perfect companion for dipping these warm, crispy bites.

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce – Easy Party Appetizer Recipe

🧰 Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make perfect Reuben Balls, you don’t need fancy equipment—just a few essential kitchen tools that help streamline the process and ensure even baking.

  • Cake pop pan – creates that signature round shape (alternatively, use a mini muffin tin)
  • Mixing bowls – one for wet ingredients, one for dry
  • Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
  • Whisk or spatula – for blending batter evenly
  • Oven – preheated to 350°F for golden results
  • Wire rack – for cooling to preserve crispiness

Having these tools on hand makes preparation quick, clean, and consistent.

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to ensure each bite is crispy on the outside, melty in the middle, and bursting with flavor.

🔹 1. Prepare the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Start with the sauce so it can chill and let the flavors meld.

  • In a small bowl, combine:
    • ¼ cup mayonnaise
    • ¼ cup ketchup
    • 2 tsp sweet relish
    • 1 tsp prepared horseradish
    • ½ tsp onion powder
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Whisk until smooth.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

💡 Tip: Make a double batch—it’s also amazing on burgers or sandwiches!

🔹 2. Make the Reuben Ball Batter

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Whisk together:
    • 1 egg
    • 2 tbsp oil
  • Add and stir in:
    • 1 cup flour (or ½ cup rye + ½ cup all-purpose for extra flavor)
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • ½ tsp baking soda
    • Pinch of salt
    • 1 tsp caraway seeds
    • ½ tsp paprika

Now fold in the main ingredients:

  • 1 cup finely chopped cooked corned beef
  • 1 cup chopped and well-drained sauerkraut
  • ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese

Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

🔹 3. Bake the Reuben Balls

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Lightly grease your cake pop pan or mini muffin tin.
  • Drop spoonfuls of batter into the molds—slightly overfill each cavity for a rounded shape.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

🧊 Pro Tip: These can be frozen and reheated for last-minute gatherings!

🥶 Can You Freeze Reuben Balls?

One of the best things about Reuben Balls is how make-ahead friendly they are. Whether you’re prepping for a party or storing leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.

🔸 Storage

  • Allow the Reuben Balls to cool completely before storing.
  • Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

🔸 Freezing

  • Arrange the cooled balls on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Freeze for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag.
  • Label with the date—they’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

🔸 Reheating

For best texture:

  • Bake from frozen at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
  • Or reheat refrigerated ones for 5–6 minutes until warmed through.

Microwave option (not recommended for crispiness):

  • Heat on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, but expect a softer exterior.

🔸 Make-Ahead Tips

  • You can prep the batter a day in advance—just store it covered in the fridge.
  • The spicy Thousand Island sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead.

🧠 Bonus Tip: Reheat a few straight from the freezer for an easy, protein-packed snack or lunch addition!

Print
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Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce – Easy Party Appetizer Recipe

Reuben Balls


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  • Author: wiolleta bertan
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: ~24 Reuben Balls
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Reuben Balls are crispy, savory bites loaded with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, served with a zesty spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Perfect for parties, holidays, or game day spreads.

Ingredients

For the Balls:
• 1 cup corned beef (cooked, chopped)
• 1 cup sauerkraut (squeezed, chopped)
• ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or half rye flour)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• ½ tsp paprika

For the Sauce:
• ¼ cup mayo
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tsp relish
• 1 tsp prepared horseradish
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk egg and oil in a large bowl.
3. Add flour, baking soda, powder, salt, caraway, and paprika. Mix.
4. Fold in corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese.
5. Drop batter into greased cake pop pan or mini muffin tin.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
7. For sauce: mix all ingredients until smooth. Chill.
8. Serve warm balls with dipping sauce.

Notes

• Substitute rye flour or bread crumbs for more authentic Reuben flavor.
• Freeze baked balls and reheat in oven for best results.
• Sauce improves with chill time—make ahead for stronger flavor.
• Mini muffin tins work well if you don’t have a cake pop pan.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Irish-American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 85 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0.5g

🧂 Flavor Variations and Add-ins

Want to shake things up? Try these customizations:

  • Add jalapeños for a spicier kick.
  • Substitute rye breadcrumbs to form thicker balls.
  • Use vegetarian deli slices or jackfruit instead of corned beef.
  • Try Gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.

🍺 Perfect Pairings

These zesty bites go well with:

  • A pint of Guinness or your favorite stout
  • Irish whiskey sours or Bailey’s cocktails
  • Sparkling lemonade or cucumber-infused water for a non-alcoholic twist

🎉 Serving Ideas for Parties

  • Arrange with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go.
  • Serve warm on a platter with a sauce bowl in the center.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or caraway seeds on top.

🧠 Pro Tips for Success

  • Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to avoid soggy batter.
  • Don’t overmix – it leads to tough texture.
  • Want better consistency? Add a tablespoon of sour cream or kefir if batter is too dry.
  • Freeze extras to reheat later.

⚠️ Nutritional Notes & Allergen Info

  • Contains gluten, dairy, and meat
  • Rough estimate: ~90 calories per ball with sauce
  • Gluten-free flour can be used, but results vary in texture

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

Can I make these without a cake pop pan?
Yes! Use a mini muffin tin. The balls will be more dome-shaped but equally delicious.

Can I use rye bread crumbs to form the balls?
Yes, adding breadcrumbs can help bind the batter, especially if it’s too wet.

Can I freeze and reheat these?
Definitely. They reheat beautifully in the oven. Avoid the microwave for best texture.

Can I substitute Thousand Island with another sauce?
Sure! Try spicy mustard, Russian dressing, or even ranch with horseradish.

Do they taste good at room temperature?
Yes, though they’re best warm. They’re still flavorful and moist when served cool.

🧺 What to Serve With Reuben Balls

Create a full spread with:

  • Cabbage slaw or tangy coleslaw
  • Roasted baby potatoes or potato skins
  • Other dips like mustard aioli or spicy sriracha ranch

🏁 Final Thoughts

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce bring together everything we love about comfort food: crispy edges, creamy sauce, tangy center, and tons of flavor. They’re easy to prepare, fun to eat, and impossible to stop at just one.

So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the Reuben revolution begin!

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