Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce take everything people love about a classic Reuben sandwich and transform it into a crispy, bite-sized appetizer. These golden fried balls are packed with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and just enough seasoning to make every bite rich, bold, and deeply satisfying.

Perfect for parties, game days, holidays, or casual gatherings, Reuben balls deliver comfort food nostalgia with a modern, snackable twist. They’re crunchy on the outside, melty on the inside, and designed for dipping into a spicy, creamy Thousand Island sauce that amplifies the flavor even more.

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that stands out from typical finger foods, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why Reuben Flavors Work So Well as an Appetizer

The Reuben sandwich is famous for its balance: salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and nutty Swiss cheese. When these elements are combined into a compact form, they become even more intense and crave-worthy.

Frying adds texture and warmth, enhancing the richness of the filling while creating a crisp shell that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. These reuben balls are indulgent without being overwhelming, making them ideal for sharing.

Ingredients

For the Reuben Balls:

2 cups finely chopped cooked corned beef
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
¾ cup sauerkraut, drained and finely chopped
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon black pepper

For Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil, for frying

For Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon hot sauce
½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Scoop the mixture and roll into 1½-inch balls. Place on a lined tray and chill for 20 minutes to firm up.
Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
Roll each ball in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 175°C (350°F).
Fry the balls in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, hot sauce, and paprika to make the dipping sauce.
Serve Reuben balls hot with spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for Crispy, Perfect Reuben Balls

Drain sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent soggy filling.
Chill the balls before frying to help them hold shape.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.

Variations and Customizations

Bake or air fry for a lighter version.
Add chopped pickles for extra tang.
Use pastrami instead of corned beef.
Increase hot sauce for a spicier dip.

Serving Suggestions

Reuben balls are best served hot and fresh. They work perfectly as party appetizers, holiday snacks, or game-day finger food. Pair with other deli-inspired bites or serve alongside sliders for a full spread.

A Deli Classic Reimagined

Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce take familiar flavors and turn them into something fun, indulgent, and irresistibly snackable. They’re bold, crunchy, creamy, and guaranteed to disappear fast.