Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s irresistibly crispy, tangy, and bursting with comfort food nostalgia, these Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip are your new must-try. Imagine all the best parts of a classic Reuben sandwich tucked inside a crunchy, golden shell, just waiting to be dipped into a zippy sauce. They’re creamy, savory, with just the right bite of sauerkraut and corned beef, and the spicy dip takes things over the top. Whether you’re hosting game night, prepping for a party, or just want something extraordinary alongside your favorite drink, Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip will turn everyday snacking into a celebration.

Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip is as easy as it gets—every component has an important role, from the succulent corned beef and oozy Swiss cheese to that essential crunch from panko. Even the dip comes together in seconds, adding that signature punchy finish.

  • Cooked Corned Beef (1 cup, finely chopped): Choose cooked corned beef and chop it finely for hearty, savory flavor in every bite.
  • Sauerkraut (1 cup, drained and patted dry): Be sure to really dry your sauerkraut for optimal texture—no one wants a soggy ball!
  • Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened): This is the luscious glue that holds everything together and adds a creamy richness.
  • Swiss Cheese (1 cup, shredded): The nutty, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Swiss is absolutely essential for that classic Reuben flavor.
  • Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): A bit of Dijon brings a zesty tang that cuts through the richness perfectly.
  • Caraway Seeds (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Add for a hint of rye-bread flavor to echo traditional Reuben notes.
  • All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): The first step in breading that keeps your coating right where it belongs.
  • Eggs (2 large, beaten): Acts as the ideal glue to help those crispy breadcrumbs stick.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs (1 1/2 cups): For that airy, super-crunchy crust every fried bite should have.
  • Vegetable Oil: Use enough to fill your skillet or pot about 2 inches deep for even frying.
  • Mayonnaise (1/2 cup, for dip): Creamy mayo forms the luscious base of your spicy dip.
  • Ketchup (2 tablespoons, for dip): A touch of ketchup adds just the right balance of sweetness and acidity.
  • Prepared Horseradish (1 tablespoon, for dip): Horseradish gives a fiery kick that makes this dip so memorable.
  • Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon, for dip): Pick your favorite for layered heat.
  • Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon, for dip): Smoked paprika finishes your dip with deep, earthy flavor and a gorgeous color.

How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut (make sure it’s really dry), cream cheese, shredded Swiss, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds if you’re using them. Stir everything together until you get a creamy, cohesive mixture. This is where all the magic flavor happens—don’t be afraid to give it an extra taste and adjust the mustard or cheese to your liking.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Balls

Scoop out a generous tablespoon of filling, roll it gently between your hands into 1 1/2-inch balls, and set them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get around 20 balls. Once they’re all shaped, slide them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This little chill session helps them firm up, making breading and frying much easier (and less messy!).

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

Get three shallow bowls ready—one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. You’ll start by rolling each ball in the flour to ensure a completely dry surface, then dunk it in the eggs to get sticky, and then roll in panko to coat thickly all over. This triple-layer method gives Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip their signature crunch.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) (a thermometer is helpful, but a breadcrumb should sizzle instantly if you drop one in). Fry the balls in batches, about 3–4 at a time, for 2–3 minutes each, turning as needed, until they’re beautifully golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.

Step 5: Stir Up the Spicy Dip

While your Reuben balls cool for a second, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, prepared horseradish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika for your spicy dip. Adjust the amount of horseradish and hot sauce if you like things extra spicy. This dip is creamy, zesty, and made to be paired perfectly with every bite.

How to Serve Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip

Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Give your Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip a final flourish with a light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives. A scattering of extra caraway seeds adds an authentic deli-style touch, and a dusting of smoked paprika looks stunning against the bubbly crust. For that extra pop, try a twist of lemon zest right over the top—unexpected, but surprisingly perfect!

Side Dishes

These crunchy bites play well with lots of different sides. Try pairing Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip alongside a simple salad with sharp vinaigrette, classic crispy fries, or tangy pickled vegetables. Even a mini coleslaw or sweet-and-sour cucumber salad gives you that crisp, fresh contrast against the rich, melty center of each ball.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation! Pile the balls high on a rustic wooden board with the spicy dip in a small bowl, or skewer them for easy dipping. For parties, serve them in paper cones lined with parchment for street food flair, or arrange them on a big platter with toothpicks for effortless grab-and-go snacking. However you present them, they’ll disappear fast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you (miraculously) have leftovers, place cooled balls in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3–4 days for the best texture and flavor. Remember, the spicy dip keeps well in a separate container for up to a week.

Freezing

Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip freeze beautifully before frying. After breading, arrange the balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Pull them out and fry straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cook time. This makes them the ultimate make-ahead party snack!

Reheating

To revive that irresistible crunch, reheat leftover Reuben balls in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will soften the coating. For just a few balls, an air fryer at 350°F works like a charm.

FAQs

Can I bake Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a lighter version, arrange the breaded balls on a greased baking sheet, give them a good spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway until golden and crisp.

Do I have to use caraway seeds?

Caraway seeds are optional, but they really enhance that familiar rye bread note typical of Reuben sandwiches. If you’re not a fan, just skip them—the recipe is still absolutely delicious.

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Be sure your sauerkraut is well-drained and the filling is thoroughly chilled before breading and frying. A good breading seal (no cracks!) also keeps everything tucked inside while frying.

Can I make Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble and bread the balls up to a day in advance. Just keep them chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to fry or bake.

Is the spicy dip very hot?

The dip is more tangy and zippy than spicy, thanks to horseradish and a touch of hot sauce. Adjust the horseradish or hot sauce levels to suit your personal heat preference.

Final Thoughts

Give yourself permission to serve a little fun and nostalgia at your next gathering with these Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip. They’re the kind of appetizer that gets people talking, dipping, and coming back for seconds (and thirds!). If you love the comfort of a Reuben sandwich, this playful, crispy version might just become your signature party starter. Happy cooking—your snack game just leveled up!

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Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe

Crispy Reuben Balls with Spicy Dip Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling)
  • Yield: 20 balls 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

These Crispy Reuben Balls with a zesty Spicy Dip are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and packed with savory flavors, they make a fantastic appetizer for any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

For Reuben Balls:

  • 1 cup finely chopped cooked corned beef
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and patted dry
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For Spicy Dip:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, and caraway seeds if using. Mix until well combined.
  2. Shape mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate bowls. Roll each ball in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  5. For the dip, stir together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, and smoked paprika until smooth. Serve Reuben balls hot with spicy dip on the side.

Notes

  • Make sure sauerkraut is well-drained to prevent sogginess.
  • These can be assembled ahead and refrigerated until ready to fry.
  • For a baked version, place breaded balls on a greased baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Deep Frying (or Baking)
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 balls with dip
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

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