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This hearty Reuben Balls recipe transforms the classic sandwich into irresistible bite-sized morsels perfect for game day gatherings or casual entertaining. The crispy exterior gives way to a savory interior packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut—all the flavors you love in a traditional Reuben sandwich but in a fun, shareable form.
I first created these Reuben Balls for a Super Bowl party, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now they're requested at every gathering, and I've perfected the recipe to get that ideal balance of crispy exterior and melty interior.
Ingredients
- Ground corned beef: Showcases the distinctive flavor that makes Reubens famous. Look for quality corned beef from your deli counter and ask them to grind it for you.
- Grated Swiss cheese: Provides that classic nutty flavor and creamy texture when melted. Choose a good aged Swiss for the best flavor profile.
- Sauerkraut: Adds the signature tangy zip. Make sure to drain and squeeze it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Plain or panko breadcrumbs: Help bind everything together while creating that beautiful golden crust. Panko will give you a slightly crispier finish.
- Large egg: Works as the essential binder that holds all ingredients together perfectly.
- Spicy Thousand Island dressing: Completes the Reuben experience with its creamy, tangy finish. The kick of spice balances the richness of the balls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature creates the perfect environment for getting a golden exterior while ensuring the cheese melts beautifully inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix The Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground corned beef, grated Swiss cheese, well drained sauerkraut, breadcrumbs, and egg. Use your hands to thoroughly blend everything together, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The texture should be moist enough to hold together but not overly wet.
- Form The Balls:
- Take approximately two tablespoons of the mixture and roll between your palms to form golf ball sized portions. Pressing firmly ensures they hold their shape during baking. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between them to allow for even browning.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a deep golden brown color and a crispy exterior. If you notice them browning too quickly, you can cover loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.
- Prepare The Dipping Sauce:
- While the Reuben balls bake, prepare your spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, a splash of hot sauce, and finely chopped pickle relish in a small bowl. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level. For extra tang, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Serve And Enjoy:
- Remove the Reuben balls from the oven and let them cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps them set up for easier handling. Arrange on a serving platter with the spicy Thousand Island dressing in a small bowl for dipping.
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The sauerkraut is actually my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered that squeezing it extremely well is crucial—I use a clean kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible. This prevents the balls from becoming soggy and concentrates that distinctive tangy flavor that makes these appetizers so addictive.
Make-Ahead Options
These Reuben balls are perfect for preparing in advance when entertaining. You can mix and form the balls up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can fully bake them, cool completely, and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. The dipping sauce can also be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Flavor Variations
While traditional Reuben flavors are hard to beat, this recipe welcomes creative adaptations. Try adding a teaspoon of caraway seeds to evoke the flavor of rye bread. For a lighter option, substitute turkey pastrami for the corned beef. You could also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. For an extra kick, mix a tablespoon of prepared horseradish into the base mixture before forming the balls.
Serving Suggestions
These Reuben balls shine as part of a larger appetizer spread. Pair them with lighter options like a fresh vegetable platter or pickled vegetables to balance their richness. They also make a fantastic addition to a sandwich-themed buffet alongside mini sliders or wraps. For a complete meal, serve them with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A cold German beer or crisp white wine makes the perfect beverage pairing to complement these savory bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What ingredients are needed for Reuben Balls?
You will need ground corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, breadcrumbs, an egg, and a dipping sauce made from spicy Thousand Island dressing.
- → How do I make the dipping sauce?
Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, and pickle relish to create a tangy and spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balls in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving.
- → What is the best way to serve Reuben Balls?
Serve them warm with the dipping sauce on the side as an appetizer or snack for gatherings.
- → How do I ensure the balls stay crispy?
Use a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F until they turn golden brown and crispy.