If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic sandwich that never fails to impress, this Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe is your new go-to snack or appetizer. Imagine all the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich—tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, and a hint of mustard—all rolled into crispy, golden-brown bite-sized balls. These are perfect for sharing at parties, game days, or just because you crave something deliciously different. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a star in your recipe collection!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building that authentic tangy, meaty flavor or adding just the right crispiness and creaminess to the texture.
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, shredded: The hearty and savory star ingredient that brings the classic Reuben flavor to the balls.
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped: Adds that unmistakable tang and slight crunch to balance richness.
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, smooth center.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Gives the mixture a creamy texture, helping everything bind together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and authentic Reuben zing.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild, sweet sparkle that enhances all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of gentle heat and seasoning.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Ensures the perfect crunchy coating once fried.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg coating stick and creates structure.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: The essential binder in the breading process.
- Oil for frying: Choose a good-quality oil with a high smoke point for that golden crisp.
How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Start by putting your shredded corned beef, chopped sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese in a large bowl. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the mix. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, blend everything until it’s well combined and sticky enough to hold together. This is the delicious base that gives these balls their full Reuben flair.
Step 2: Shape Into Balls
Once the filling is ready, roll it into small balls about one inch in diameter. This size is perfect for popping into your mouth, plus it ensures each bite has the right balance of all the ingredients. Arrange your created balls neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs. This classic breading trio is key to making those Reuben balls beautifully crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Step 4: Coat the Balls
Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. This triple-dip method helps the crust form a satisfying crunch. Place the breaded balls back on the sheet, ready to take a dip in the hot oil.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Heat your frying oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully drop the balls in batches, frying each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The sizzling sound is the true sign of crispy perfection coming to life.
Step 6: Drain and Serve Warm
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls onto paper towels to soak up the excess oil. Serve them warm while the cheese is still delightfully melty inside. They’re fantastic on their own or with a side of extra Dijon mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast. A light drizzle of Thousand Island dressing, a classic Reuben companion, makes a delicious, tangy topping that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
Pair your Crispy Reuben Balls with simple sides like crispy potato wedges or a fresh green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. These combinations balance the richness of the balls beautifully while adding variety to your platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving these on skewers with mini pickles and a dab of mustard on the side. Or place them in small individual ramekins with dipping sauces so everyone can personalize their bites. Presentation here elevates the fun factor and makes your dish stand out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store leftover Crispy Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for quick reheats that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe later, freeze the breaded balls on a tray first until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. This will prevent them from sticking together and keep them fresh for up to two months.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the balls in an oven or air fryer at about 350°F until hot and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the crust soggy. This way, they’ll taste almost as fantastic as when freshly fried.
FAQs
Can I bake the Crispy Reuben Balls instead of frying?
Absolutely! While frying gives that signature crunch, baking at 400°F on a greased sheet for 15-20 minutes offers a healthier alternative with a nicely browned crust. Spritz them lightly with oil before baking for best results.
Can I make these vegetarian-friendly?
To keep the spirit of this Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe but make it vegetarian, swap corned beef for seasoned sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based deli meat alternative. Sauerkraut and cheese still provide plenty of flavor, so it won’t disappoint.
What dipping sauces go well with these balls?
Classic choices include extra Dijon mustard, Thousand Island dressing, or a creamy horseradish sauce. Even a spicy mustard or a tangy Russian dressing will complement the tangy, savory flavor wonderfully.
How can I ensure the Reuben balls don’t fall apart?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and that you press the balls firmly when shaping. The triple coating with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs also creates a sturdy crust to hold everything together while frying.
Can I use fresh sauerkraut instead of canned?
Fresh sauerkraut can work wonderfully but be sure to drain and chop it well to avoid excess moisture that could make the mixture too wet. Excess liquid might cause the balls to lose their shape while cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making a beloved classic in a totally new form, and this Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe hits that mark effortlessly. Whether you’re serving these for a crowd or indulging in a snack at home, their crispy, cheesy, tangy goodness will have everyone asking for seconds. Give them a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings (about 24 balls)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Reuben Balls are a delicious appetizer combining classic Reuben sandwich flavors into bite-sized, fried balls. Made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and cream cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to a golden crisp, these savory treats are perfect for parties or game day snacks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, shredded
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Breading and Frying
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, chopped sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and uniform.
- Shape Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch diameter balls. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow dishes: one with the all-purpose flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the third with the breadcrumbs, to create a proper breading station.
- Bread the Balls: Roll each ball first in the flour, ensuring a light coating, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet.
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil over medium heat until hot enough for frying (about 350°F or until a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in).
- Fry Reuben Balls: Fry the balls in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they achieve a golden brown, crispy exterior.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer fried Reuben balls to paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with extra Dijon mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure sauerkraut is well drained to avoid excess moisture causing sogginess.
- You can prepare the balls ahead of time and refrigerate before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying.
- For a lower fat alternative, consider baking the balls at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- These balls can be served with Thousand Island dressing to mimic traditional Reuben flavors.
