For those who love classic comfort foods with a twist, Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are a game-changer. These bite-sized savory treats bring together the best parts of a Reuben sandwich — corned beef (or ground beef), Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut — but in an easy-to-eat, crispy, golden ball. Served with a tangy and spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, these flavorful bites are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a special snack, or looking for something fun and different to bring to your next gathering. These Reuben Balls are full of savory goodness, a little heat, and a lot of indulgent flavor.

The combination of tender beef, melted Swiss cheese, and the crunch of breadcrumbs paired with the zesty tang of the dipping sauce will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you serve them at a game night, at a holiday party, or as a casual weeknight treat, these Reuben Balls are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this addictive appetizer that’s perfect for any event!

Ingredients:

For the Reuben Balls:

• 1 pound ground beef or corned beef (or a mix of both if you’re feeling adventurous)
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped finely
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (you can substitute Gruyère for a sharper taste)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor that’s reminiscent of traditional rye bread used in Reubens)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (use a light or low-fat version for a lighter dip)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (or use tomato paste for a more concentrated flavor)
• 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce (adjust this depending on your spice tolerance)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy, sophisticated flavor)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (feel free to adjust the level of heat based on preference; you can use anything from sriracha to Tabasco)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting for the oven to heat up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures the Reuben balls don’t stick to the sheet and allows for easy cleanup after baking. If you have a cooling rack, placing it on top of the baking sheet will help the Reuben balls cook evenly by allowing hot air to circulate around them.

Step 2: Prepare the Reuben Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Ground beef (or corned beef)
• Chopped sauerkraut (be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the mixture soggy)
• Shredded Swiss cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder, onion powder, and caraway seeds (optional but adds a distinct Reuben flavor)
• Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should feel slightly sticky but hold its shape when rolled into balls. If the mixture feels too loose, add more breadcrumbs until you achieve the right consistency.

Step 3: Shape the Reuben Balls
Once the mixture is ready, begin rolling it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with approximately 20-24 balls, depending on the size you make them. Place the balls onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking. If you want an extra crispy coating, you can roll the balls in additional breadcrumbs before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Reuben Balls
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure even cooking, you can flip the balls halfway through the baking process. The internal temperature of the Reuben balls should reach 165°F (74°C). You can test this with a meat thermometer or simply cut one ball in half to make sure it’s fully cooked.

Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce
While the Reuben Balls are baking, take a medium-sized bowl and whisk together the following ingredients to make the dipping sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Horseradish sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Hot sauce
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Adjust the amount of hot sauce depending on how spicy you like your dips. You can even add a teaspoon of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy extra heat. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. For a more vibrant flavor, let the sauce chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Reuben Balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Arrange the Reuben Balls on a serving platter and serve with the Spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce on the side.

These flavorful balls are perfect for dipping and snacking. Serve them at your next party, game day gathering, or just as a fun appetizer for family dinner. They’re sure to become a fan favorite!

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with Pickles: Serve with a side of dill pickles or pickled onions for a tangy contrast that complements the richness of the Reuben Balls.
• On a Skewer: For a fun twist, you can thread the Reuben Balls onto small skewers and serve them like mini kebabs. This makes them easy for guests to grab and eat.
• With a Side Salad: To balance the richness, serve these Reuben Balls with a fresh green salad or coleslaw.
• Serve with Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra Swiss cheese on top of the balls about 5 minutes before they finish baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.

Tips:

1. Choosing the Meat: Traditional Reuben sandwiches use corned beef, but you can also opt for ground beef or even turkey for a leaner option. For an even more authentic flavor, try using pastrami!
2. Crispy Texture: For an extra crispy exterior, you can lightly fry the Reuben Balls in a pan with a little oil before baking them. Alternatively, you can coat them in breadcrumbs for an added crunch.
3. Sauerkraut Tip: Be sure to drain the sauerkraut well to avoid making the meat mixture too wet. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also rinse the sauerkraut slightly before chopping it.
4. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the Reuben Balls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them an excellent option for meal prepping or party planning!
5. Spicy Heat: Adjust the level of hot sauce in the dipping sauce to cater to your preferred spice tolerance. You can add more for a fiery kick or keep it mild for a subtle heat.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

FAQs:

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Reuben balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze the Reuben Balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked Reuben Balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet directly from the freezer and bake for a few extra minutes.

3. Can I use a different cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as Gruyère, cheddar, or even provolone for a different flavor profile.

4. How can I make the dipping sauce less spicy?
To reduce the heat of the dipping sauce, simply decrease the amount of hot sauce and horseradish sauce. You can also replace the hot sauce with a milder option like sweet chili sauce.

5. How can I make the Reuben Balls gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the hot sauce and other condiments you use are also gluten-free. You can also substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.

Conclusion:

These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the perfect way to elevate your appetizer game! With their savory, cheesy, and tangy flavor profile, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you want to enjoy the classic taste of a Reuben sandwich in a fun and easy-to-eat form. Paired with the Spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce, they provide a delicious balance of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack, these Reuben Balls are sure to be a hit!