If you love the bold, comforting flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich but want a fun, bite-sized twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe. These golden, crunchy spheres pack tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, gooey Swiss cheese, and a creamy kick all rolled together and fried to perfection. Paired with a zesty, smoky spicy dip, they’re an irresistible appetizer or party snack that will have everyone reaching for seconds and asking for the recipe. Trust me, these Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite at your gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe is all about simple, quality ingredients that bring big flavor and satisfyingly crispy textures. Each component plays its part, from the salty, tender corned beef to the creamy cheeses, tangy sauerkraut, and the subtle warmth of Dijon mustard and caraway seeds.
- Chopped corned beef: Use good-quality corned beef for a savory and hearty base packed with flavor.
- Sauerkraut (drained and squeezed dry): Adds a bright, tangy bite to balance richness and keep the balls moist without sogginess.
- Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature Reuben gooeyness inside each ball.
- Cream cheese (softened): Binds ingredients together while adding a luscious creaminess.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle zing and depth that elevates the overall taste.
- Caraway seeds (optional): A traditional Reuben touch that offers a gentle, aromatic spice note.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for coating and helping the breading stick perfectly.
- Large eggs (beaten): Acts as the glue in the breading process, giving the Crispy Reuben Balls their irresistible crunch.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: Provides that golden, crispy crust that makes every bite a delight.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Use neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve crisp, evenly fried balls.
- Mayonnaise (for spicy dip): The smooth base for a flavorful and creamy dip.
- Ketchup: Adds subtle sweetness and color to the dip.
- Prepared horseradish: Gives the spicy dip a lively kick that complements the rich balls perfectly.
- Hot sauce: Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
- Worcestershire sauce: Enhances savory umami notes in the dip for complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the fried texture.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste in both the balls and the spicy dip.
How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Reuben filling
Start by mixing your tender chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds in a large bowl. This blend brings all those iconic Reuben flavors into one delicious, cohesive filling. Mixing well ensures every bite has that perfect balance of salty, tangy, and creamy.
Step 2: Shape and chill the balls
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, making each one uniform to ensure even cooking. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they don’t stick, then pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial because it firms up the mixture, making the balls easier to handle during breading and frying.
Step 3: Bread the balls
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Roll each chilled ball first in flour, followed by the egg wash, then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs. This triple coating is what creates that beautiful golden crust and keeps the filling hot and melty inside.
Step 4: Fry to golden perfection
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches carefully so the temperature stays consistent, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous, crispy golden brown. Once done, drain the balls on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Whisk together the spicy dip
While the balls fry, prepare your spicy dip by whisking together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This dip is creamy, tangy, smoky, and just spicy enough to perfectly contrast the savory richness of the balls.
How to Serve Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the balls before serving for a fresh, green pop that brightens up the presentation and adds a mild oniony note. You can also offer some extra sauerkraut on the side for those who want an extra tangy bite.
Side Dishes
These Crispy Reuben Balls are fantastic as finger food on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crunchy pickles to complement their rich, indulgent flavor. For a party spread, consider featuring them alongside soft pretzels or baked potato wedges for a full-on comfort food fest.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the balls on skewers with a dollop of spicy dip for easy dipping and sharing. Another creative idea is to place them atop slices of rye bread or mini toasts with a small smear of mustard for an elegant appetizer version that still delivers all the Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe flavors in a bite-sized package.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store the cooked balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the spicy dip separate will preserve its fresh flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked balls after shaping and chilling them in the freezer. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. Freeze for up to one month, then fry straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover Crispy Reuben Balls is to pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch intact.
FAQs
Can I substitute pastrami for corned beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Pastrami makes a delicious alternative to corned beef and will give a slightly different but equally tasty flavor dimension to your Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Yes, simply swap out the all-purpose flour and seasoned breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions. The texture might be a little different but will still be wonderful and safe for gluten sensitivity.
Can these balls be baked instead of fried?
While frying provides the best crispiness and texture, you can bake them at 400°F (205°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through. The crust will be less crunchy but still delicious.
How spicy is the dipping sauce?
The spicy dip has a gentle heat from the horseradish and hot sauce, balanced by creamy mayonnaise and smoky paprika. You can easily adjust the hot sauce amount to make it milder or more fiery to suit your taste.
Can I prepare the balls entirely ahead of time?
You can make the balls, freeze them, and then fry just before serving. This makes it a terrific make-ahead appetizer that still tastes freshly cooked and crunchy when guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as biting into a crispy, golden exterior with a deliciously savory, cheesy center, especially when it’s packed with all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich. This Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe makes for a fantastic crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a comforting snack, these bites will not disappoint. So grab your ingredients and get ready to wow your friends and family with this irresistible appetizer!
Print
Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip are a delicious fried appetizer featuring a savory mixture of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese, seasoned with Dijon mustard and caraway seeds. These bite-sized balls are breaded and fried to golden perfection, served warm with a tangy and spicy dipping sauce that complements the flavors beautifully. Perfect for parties or as a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Reuben Balls
- 2 cups chopped corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Spicy Dip
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Mixing the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds (if using). Stir until the mixture is fully blended and holds together well.
- Forming the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the balls for 30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to bread and fry.
- Preparing the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the seasoned breadcrumbs. This will ensure each ball is evenly coated.
- Breading the Balls: Remove the frozen balls from the freezer. Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Place coated balls back on the parchment-lined tray to keep them separated.
- Frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Preparing the Spicy Dip: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared horseradish, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Serving: Serve the crispy Reuben balls warm alongside the spicy dip for dipping. Enjoy as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- You can prepare the Reuben balls ahead of time and freeze them before frying for convenient meal prep.
- Substitute pastrami for corned beef if you prefer a different flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour.
