Reuben Beef Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip are an innovative twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. These crispy, golden-brown beef delights are made with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese. Paired with a homemade spicy dipping sauce, they are perfect for parties, game days, or a comforting appetizer. Let’s dive deeper into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Beef Balls with

These Reuben beef meatballs are simply irresistible! First, they combine all your favorite Reuben sandwich flavors into a bite-sized form. Second, they are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for gatherings. Third, the homemade Spicy Thousand Island dressing adds a zesty kick. Fourth, they are easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Fifth, you can customize them with various dipping sauces. Finally, they are gluten-free, which accommodates dietary restrictions. These flavorful bites are a must-try!

Ingredients for Reuben Beef Balls with

Gather these items:

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, finely diced or shredded
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained & finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish, drained
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp minced red onion or shallot
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp hot sauce (to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Reuben Beef Balls with Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, lemon juice, 1 tbsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce, minced red onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, hot sauce, black pepper, and optional cayenne in a bowl. Whisk well and season with salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, sauté onion in butter and olive oil until soft (5-7 mins). Add garlic, cook 1-2 mins; cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine cooled onion-garlic mix with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, parsley, Dijon, 1 tsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust salt. Refrigerate filling for at least 1 hour to firm.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment. Scoop 1.5-2 tbsp of chilled filling per ball. Roll into compact 1.5-2 inch balls. Place on baking sheet. Refrigerate formed balls for another 30 minutes to maintain shape.
4. Step 4: Set up three shallow dishes: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs. For the first pass, roll each ball in flour, then egg, then Panko. For the second pass (double breading), dip again in egg, then Panko, pressing firmly for a thick coat. Refrigerate breaded balls for 15-20 minutes before frying.
5. Step 5: Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches (4-6 at a time) for 3-5 minutes, turning until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Repeat with remaining batches, allowing oil to return to temperature.
6. Step 6: Arrange freshly fried Reuben balls on a platter. Serve hot immediately with the chilled Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Reuben Beef Balls with

Keep these in mind:

• Ensure the filling is cold before forming the balls for easier handling.
• Using Panko breadcrumbs gives a crispier texture.
• Refrigerate the formed balls again before frying to maintain their shape.
• For a spicier kick, adjust the cayenne pepper in the filling and dipping sauce.
• These meatballs can also be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.

Best Ways to Serve Reuben Beef Balls with

These Reuben-inspired meatballs can be served in various creative ways. Pair them with a delightful Spicy Thousand Island dressing for dipping. You can also serve them on skewers with pickles for a fun appetizer presentation. Consider offering a side of tangy sauerkraut or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Reuben Beef Balls with

To store leftover delicious corned beef balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain their crispiness. These meatballs are also great for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Reuben Beef Balls with

What are Reuben beef balls?

Reuben beef balls are bite-sized appetizers inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich. They are made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a spicy dipping sauce, making them perfect for any gathering.

Can I make Reuben beef balls with ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and form the balls ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry or bake. This makes it easy to serve fresh meatballs at your event.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Reuben beef balls with?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the filling is adequately chilled before shaping your meatballs. Also, don’t skip the refrigeration step after breading; it helps them hold together while frying.

Variations of Reuben Beef Balls with You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your homemade Reuben beef meatballs. For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of corned beef. You could also experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda or cheddar. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat alternatives and skip the Worcestershire sauce. These variations can accommodate various dietary preferences while still delivering that beloved Reuben flavor.

For more information on appetizers and how to make them, check out our other recipes!

Reuben Beef Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dip Recipe

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 Reuben beef balls 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Transforming the iconic Reuben sandwich into crispy, golden-brown, bite-sized beef delights. These irresistible appetizers feature tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese, paired with a vibrant homemade Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups cooked corned beef, finely diced or shredded
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained & finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish, drained
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp minced red onion or shallot
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp hot sauce (to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, lemon juice, 1 tbsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce, minced red onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, hot sauce, black pepper, and optional cayenne in a bowl. Whisk well and season with salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion in butter and olive oil until soft (5-7 mins). Add garlic, cook 1-2 mins; cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine cooled onion-garlic mix with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, parsley, Dijon, 1 tsp non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust salt. Refrigerate filling for at least 1 hour to firm.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Scoop 1.5-2 tbsp of chilled filling per ball. Roll into compact 1.5-2 inch balls. Place on baking sheet. Refrigerate formed balls for another 30 minutes to maintain shape.
4. Set up three shallow dishes: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs. For the first pass, roll each ball in flour, then egg, then Panko. For the second pass (double breading), dip again in egg, then Panko, pressing firmly for a thick coat. Refrigerate breaded balls for 15-20 minutes before frying.
5. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches (4-6 at a time) for 3-5 minutes, turning until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Repeat with remaining batches, allowing oil to return to temperature.
6. Arrange freshly fried Reuben balls on a platter. Serve hot immediately with the chilled Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce.

Notes

• Prep Time: 4 hours
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Deep frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 Reuben beef ball
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg