Crispy Reuben Appetizer Balls (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Reuben Balls
01 -
1 ½ cups chopped or shredded corned beef
02 -
1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
03 -
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
04 -
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 -
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
06 -
½ cup all-purpose flour
07 -
2 eggs, beaten
08 -
1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
09 -
Vegetable oil, for frying
→ For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
10 -
½ cup mayonnaise
11 -
2 tablespoons ketchup
12 -
1 tablespoon pickle relish
13 -
1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
14 -
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
# Instructions:
01 -
In a mixing bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well incorporated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
02 -
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll between your palms to form neat, compact balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate while preparing the breading station.
03 -
Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second dish, and breadcrumbs in a third dish. Take the chilled balls and dredge each one first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until completely coated.
04 -
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the breaded balls for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
05 -
While the balls are frying, prepare the sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Adjust the hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
06 -
Arrange the hot Reuben balls on a serving platter alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra crunch and authentic Reuben flavor, mix finely crushed rye crackers into the breadcrumbs.
02 -
Leftover Reuben balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
03 -
To reheat leftovers, bake in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until hot and crispy again.
04 -
These can be frozen after cooking. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 12-15 minutes.