When comfort food meets party food, magic happens.

If you love the bold flavors of a classic deli Reuben sandwich — savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and melty Swiss cheese — then these Reuben Balls are about to become your new favorite appetizer.

Inspired by the iconic Reuben sandwich, these bite-sized golden spheres deliver everything you love about the sandwich — but wrapped in a crispy coating and served with a zesty, spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.

Perfect for game day, holidays, parties, or whenever you want a crowd-pleasing snack.

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What Are Reuben Balls?

Reuben Balls are deep-fried appetizer bites made with:

• Chopped corned beef
• Swiss cheese
• Sauerkraut
• Creamy binder
• Coated in breadcrumbs
• Fried until golden and crispy

They’re crunchy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, and absolutely addictive.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
✔ Easy to prep ahead
✔ Crowd-pleasing party food
✔ Perfect for game day or holidays
✔ Freezer-friendly

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Ingredients

Reuben Balls

• 2 cups finely chopped corned beef
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying

Spicy Thousand Island Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Mix until fully combined and slightly sticky.
3. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Scoop mixture and roll into 1-inch balls.
5. Set up breading station: flour, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs.
6. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
7. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb coating.
8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
9. Fry balls in batches 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels.
11. In a small bowl, mix all dipping sauce ingredients until smooth.
12. Serve warm with spicy Thousand Island sauce.

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Flavor Profile

These Reuben Balls are:

• Crunchy outside
• Creamy inside
• Savory and slightly tangy
• Perfectly balanced by spicy, creamy dipping sauce

Every bite delivers layers of texture and bold deli-inspired flavor.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Reuben Balls

• Squeeze sauerkraut very dry to prevent sogginess.
• Chill mixture before rolling.
• Double-coat for extra crunch.
• Fry in small batches.
• Use thermometer for oil temperature control.

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Air Fryer Option

Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
Spray balls lightly with oil.
Air fry 8–10 minutes until crispy and golden.

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Make-Ahead & Storage

Refrigerator: 3 days
Freezer: Freeze uncooked balls up to 2 months
Reheat: Oven at 350°F for 10 minutes

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