Name: Crispy Reuben Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
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 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

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Savor the bold, comforting flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in these Crispy Reuben Balls, a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering. These golden, crunchy Reuben Balls combine tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and a creamy filling, all encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Ready in just 30 minutes, this Reuben Balls Recipe is ideal for game nights, parties, or cozy evenings. Follow our easy steps to create these irresistible Reuben Balls Corned Beef bites that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe

These Crispy Reuben Balls are a standout Reuben Balls Recipe, blending bold flavors with simple preparation. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Bold and Flavorful: Combines corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese for a classic Reuben Balls taste.
Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute entertaining or snacks.
Crowd-Pleasing: These Reuben Balls Corned Beef bites are a hit at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or fun lunch with your favorite dipping sauces.
Crispy Perfection: A golden breadcrumb coating makes every bite of these Crispy Reuben Balls irresistible.

What Makes Crispy Reuben Balls Special?

The Crispy Reuben Balls pack all the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich into a portable, bite-sized form, making them a unique recipe. Tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese are blended with creamy cheese and spices, then coated in crunchy breadcrumbs for a perfect texture contrast. These Rueben Balls Corned Beef delights are easy to prepare, requiring no advanced cooking skills, and their versatility makes them ideal for any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant parties. With a quick fry and a dip in Thousand Island dressing, these Crispy Reuben Balls are sure to steal the show.

Ingredients for Crispy Reuben Balls

To prepare these savory Crispy Reuben Balls (makes about 24 balls), gather these 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 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Ingredient Tips:

Corned Beef: Use leftover cooked corned beef or deli slices, finely shredded for texture.
Sauerkraut: Drain thoroughly to avoid soggy Reuben Balls; squeeze out excess liquid.
Swiss Cheese: Shred fresh for better melting; Gruyère or Monterey Jack can substitute.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch.

How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls

Follow these steps to create delicious Crispy Reuben Balls:

Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups shredded corned beef, 1 cup chopped sauerkraut, 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, 1/2 cup softened cream cheese, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes: one with 1/2 cup flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 1 cup breadcrumbs.
Bread the Balls: Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly for an even coating. Return to the baking sheet.
Fry the Balls: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Fry the Reuben Balls in batches, turning occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serve: Serve warm with Dijon mustard, Thousand Island dressing, or horseradish cream for dipping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: ~320 per serving (based on 4 balls per serving, 6 servings total)
Servings: 6 (about 24 balls)

Macros per Serving: 18g carbs, 14g protein, 20g fat, 1g fiber

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Reuben Balls

Drain Sauerkraut Well: Squeeze out all liquid to ensure firm.
Keep Oil at Medium Heat: Maintain 350°F to avoid burning the breadcrumbs before the filling heats through.
Uniform Balls: Use a small cookie scoop.
Test Fry One Ball: Check oil temperature and seasoning by frying a single ball first.
Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately for the best texture and melty cheese in these Rueben Balls Corned Beef.

Creative Variations for Crispy Reuben Balls

Customize this Crispy Reuben Balls recipe with these fun twists:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño to the filling for spicy balls.
Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, cheddar, or Monterey Jack instead of Swiss for a different flavor.
Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Pastrami Twist: Substitute corned beef with pastrami.
Mini Sliders: Serve inside mini slider buns with extra sauce for a fun party twist.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Arrange on a platter with dipping sauces in small bowls for an inviting Reuben Balls display.
Pair with classic Reuben sides like coleslaw or pickles for a complete experience.
Serve with craft beers, iced tea, or a cocktail like a Black Magic Martini for a party vibe.
Skewer each ball with a toothpick for easy, mess-free eating at gatherings.
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of Thousand Island for a pop of color.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Freeze: Freeze uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; fry from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.
Prep Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate unfried balls for up to 24 hours; fry just before serving.
Reheat: Bake or air-fry leftovers at 350°F to restore crispiness without excess oil.
Refresh: Serve with fresh dipping sauce to revive flavors when reheating.

FAQs About Crispy Reuben Balls

Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes on a greased baking sheet until golden.

What can I use instead of Swiss cheese in this Recipe?
Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or cheddar are great substitutes for Swiss in Reuben Balls.

Can I make Rueben Balls Corned Beef ahead of time?
Yes, prep unfried Balls and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; fry fresh for the best texture.

How do I prevent soggy Crispy Reuben Balls?
Drain sauerkraut thoroughly and ensure the oil is hot (350°F) to keep Balls crispy.

Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef in this Recipe?
Yes, pastrami works well for a smokier flavor in Rueben Balls Corned Beef.

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Conclusion

These Crispy Reuben Balls are a bold, savory recipe that brings classic sandwich flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy snacks, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy crunchy, cheesy Rueben Balls Corned Beef bites that everyone will crave!