If you’re in the mood for a fun and delicious appetizer that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than these Crispy Reuben Balls. Imagine all the classic ingredients of a Reuben sandwich—tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty thousand island dressing—crafted into delightful, bite-sized balls and then fried to golden, crispy perfection. These tasty treats are not just easy to make, but they’re also incredibly fun to eat, making them a perfect addition to parties, game days, or any casual gathering.

This recipe is a celebration of the timeless Reuben sandwich, bringing a fresh and playful twist to this deli classic. The best part? They’re also highly adaptable! You can easily customize the flavors to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you want to try them baked instead of fried, or swap out ingredients to accommodate guests, I’m here to guide you through making these delicious Crispy Reuben Balls.

Throughout the years, Reuben sandwiches have held a special place in my heart. I fondly remember the first time I tried one at my favorite deli, savoring the layers of flavor and texture. This recipe was my way of taking those cherished memories and transforming them into an entirely new culinary experience. Whenever I make these bites, they bring everyone together; friends and family gather around, eagerly anticipating this delightful twist on a beloved classic.

So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to prepare some Crispy Reuben Balls that will undoubtedly impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!

Recipe Summary: Crispy Reuben Balls

Description: Crispy Reuben Balls made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a crunchy coating, perfect for appetizers or game-day snacking.

How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls

Simplified Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup thousand island dressing
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, thousand island dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything until well combined.
2. Form the balls: Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
3. Prepare for frying: Set up a breading station. Place the breadcrumbs in one bowl and the beaten eggs in another. Dip each Reuben ball into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until thoroughly coated.
4. Fry the balls: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the Reuben balls in batches, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve the crispy Reuben balls hot with extra thousand island dressing for dipping. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these crispy bites on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chives for an attractive presentation.
• Provide a variety of dipping sauces alongside the thousand island dressing, such as spicy mustard or ranch, for guests to enjoy.
• Pair the Reuben balls with a light salad or coleslaw for a brief respite from the richness of the dish.

Nutritional Information:

Per Serving (approx. 2-3 balls):

• Calories: 270
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg

Tips and Variations:

• Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake these Reuben balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
• Dietary Modifications: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the corned beef and thousand island dressing are free from gluten.
• Beef Alternatives: You can substitute the corned beef with pastrami or turkey if you want a different flavor profile.
• Extra Crunch: For an extra crunch, try adding some crushed potato chips to the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage:

• Leftover Reuben balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
• These balls can also be frozen before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Closing for Crispy Reuben Balls

Crispy Reuben Balls are a fun and delicious twist on a classic sandwich that everyone will love! They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Serve them at your next gathering, and watch as they disappear in a flash! Don’t forget to let us know how your Crispy Reuben Balls turn out—get creative and enjoy the process!

Frequently Asked Questions for Crispy Reuben Balls

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time, refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry.

1. What kind of oil is best for frying?

• Vegetable oil or canola oil is best, as they have high smoke points.

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

• Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

1. What should I do if the mixture is too wet?

• Add breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

1. Can I use a different cheese?

• Absolutely! Cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese would be great alternatives for different flavors.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

1. Are these gluten-free?

• You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free.

1. What’s a good dipping sauce?

• Besides thousand island dressing, mustard, ranch, or even a spicy aioli can pair well.

1. Can I make these vegetarian?

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the corned beef with a mix of mushrooms and soy sauce for that umami flavor.

1. How do I know when the balls are done?
   • They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside; you can use a thermometer to check that they reach at least 165°F (74°C) internally.