If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, then you’re going to fall in love with Reuben Balls. These crispy, cheesy, flavor-packed bites take everything you love about the traditional Reuben and roll it into an irresistibly snackable form. Whether you’re planning your next party spread, game day snack, or just want to treat yourself to something fun and delicious, Reuben Balls are here to impress.
Table of Contents
What Are Reuben Balls?
Reuben Balls are a creative and crave-worthy twist on the Reuben sandwich. Made by blending chopped corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and a hint of Thousand Island dressing, this flavorful filling is shaped into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to a golden crisp. The result? A crunchy shell with a melty, savory center that delivers a bold punch of deli-inspired flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Reuben Balls
- 🍗 Bold Reuben Flavor: Every bite delivers that signature combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss.
- ☕ Perfect Party Appetizer: Bite-sized and easy to eat, ideal for entertaining.
- 🚀 Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and a straightforward process.
- 🥶 Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead and store until you’re ready to enjoy.
Ingredients for Reuben Balls
To make approximately 20 Reuben Balls, you’ll need:
- 2 cups finely chopped cooked corned beef
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
How to Make Reuben Balls
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and seasonings. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated and holds together.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Chill
Place the formed balls in the fridge for about 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape during the next steps.
Step 4: Bread the Reuben Balls
Create a dredging setup with three shallow bowls: one filled with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Roll each ball through the flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Warm your oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry a few balls at a time for about 3–4 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden and crispy. Use a slotted utensil to lift them out and let them rest on paper towels to absorb extra oil.
Make Reuben Balls in the Air Fryer
For a healthier alternative, lightly coat the breaded balls with cooking spray and air fry them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even crisp.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
While Reuben Balls are delicious on their own, they shine even brighter with a tasty dipping sauce. Try these:
- Extra Thousand Island dressing
- Dijon mustard sauce
- Spicy Russian dressing
- Creamy horseradish dip
Tips
- Eliminate Moisture: Be sure to squeeze all the liquid out of the sauerkraut to help the mixture hold together properly.
- Chill Before Cooking: Letting the balls rest in the fridge before breading and frying ensures they maintain their shape.
- Fry in Small Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature stable and achieve even browning.
- Make-Ahead Option: After shaping and breading, freeze the balls on a tray until solid, then store in a freezer bag until ready to fry.
What to Serve with Reuben Balls
Reuben Balls are amazing as an appetizer, but they also make a great part of a snack board or game-day spread. Serve them with:
- Pickles and olives
- Potato chips or fries
- Coleslaw or a tangy cabbage slaw
- Beer or a fizzy ginger ale for the perfect pairing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pastrami instead of corned beef?
Yes, pastrami adds a smoky depth of flavor and works as a delicious alternative in Reuben Balls.
Can I bake it?
Yes! Place on a greased baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.
Are Reuben Balls gluten-free?
They can be! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Final Thoughts: You Need Reuben Balls in Your Life
There’s no denying it—Reuben Balls are an absolute showstopper. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday gathering, or a cozy night in, these bite-sized beauties are guaranteed to win hearts (and taste buds). Packed with bold Reuben flavor, melty cheese, and crispy goodness, Reuben Balls are the ultimate appetizer upgrade.
PrintReuben Balls Recipe
These crispy, cheesy Reuben Balls are everything you love about a classic deli Reuben sandwich—corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese—rolled into golden, bite-sized snacks. Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun appetizer twist!
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
Filling:
1 ½ cups finely chopped cooked corned beef
1 cup finely chopped sauerkraut (drained and squeezed dry)
1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
For Breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups plain breadcrumbs or panko
For Frying:
Vegetable oil, for deep frying
Optional for Serving:
Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing, for dipping
Instructions
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until a thick, uniform mixture forms.
Chill the Mixture:
Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 30–60 minutes, or until firm enough to roll.
Form the Balls:
Once chilled, scoop and roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. You should get around 20–24 balls.
Set Up Breading Station:
Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
Bread the Balls:
Roll each ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Fry the Balls:
Heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pot.
Drain & Serve:
Transfer the fried Reuben Balls to a paper towel–lined plate. Serve warm with Thousand Island or Russian dressing.
Notes
Air Fryer Option: Spray with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make Ahead: Freeze uncooked balls after breading. Fry straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
Cheese Swap: Gruyère or provolone can be used instead of Swiss for a twist in flavor.
Low-Carb Tip: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
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