What Are Reuben Balls? A Bite-Sized Take on a Classic

Discover the Magic of Reuben Balls

Reuben Balls are the perfect bite-sized comfort food, combining the bold flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich into crispy, golden snacks. Originating from the beloved Reuben sandwich, these appetizers have become a crowd-pleasing favorite for parties, game days, and casual gatherings. Packed with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, they deliver a flavorful punch in every bite.

Why Are Reuben Balls So Popular?

This versatile recipe is loved for its ease of preparation and adaptability. Whether you’re frying them for an extra crunch or baking them for a healthier twist, these appetizers never fail to impress. Plus, with the addition of a tangy homemade dipping sauce, they become utterly irresistible. Learn how to perfect your sauerkraut game by checking out this guide on making homemade sauerkraut.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for an easy make-ahead appetizer, Reuben Balls fit the bill. These savory snacks can be customized to suit dietary preferences, including gluten-free and low-carb options. If you want inspiration for other creative corned beef recipes, this resource is a must-visit.

How to Make Reuben Balls: The Core Recipe

Reuben Balls: A Bite-Sized Version of the Classic Sandwich

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 20-25 Reuben balls 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Reuben balls are a delightful snack combining ground beef or corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and a tangy sauce, all rolled into balls and baked to perfection. These flavorful, savory treats are perfect for parties or as an appetizer to kick off any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef or corned beef
1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice level)
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: If using ground beef, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, if needed. If using corned beef, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef (or chopped corned beef), sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, sriracha, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop the mixture and form small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Reuben Balls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Reuben balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
Serve: Let the Reuben balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as Thousand Island dressing or more sriracha for extra spice.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture for a tangy kick.
You can also pan-fry the Reuben balls in a little oil for a crispy exterior if you prefer.
If you want to make these in advance, you can prepare the balls and refrigerate them before baking for up to a day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3-4 Reuben balls
Calories: 250
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Reuben Balls: A Bite-Sized Version of the Classic Sandwich

To enhance the flavor, make your own Thousand Island dressing for dipping. Learn how with this simple guide.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1

Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, sriracha, relish, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3

Coat the Balls: Prepare a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dip each ball into the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat them with breadcrumbs.

Step 4

Cook to Perfection: Fry in oil at 350°F until golden brown, or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes for a healthier option.

Tips for Success

For a crunchier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs.
Use chilled filling for easier shaping and coating.

Creative Twists on Reuben Balls

Elevate Your Reuben Balls with Unique Variations

Take your classic Reuben Balls to the next level with these creative ideas. From alternative fillings to innovative coatings, you can customize this appetizer to suit any occasion or preference. These variations add a personal touch while maintaining the beloved flavors of the original recipe.

Exciting Filling Variations

Pastrami Substitute: Replace corned beef with pastrami for a smoky, peppery twist.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground “beef” or jackfruit and vegan Swiss cheese for a meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a fiery flavor profile.
Creamy Addition: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the filling for an extra-rich texture.

Coating and Cooking Techniques

Pretzel Coating: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pretzels to give your Reuben Balls a salty, crunchy finish.
Air Fryer Option: Cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for a healthier, oil-free alternative.
Cheese-Stuffed Balls: Stuff the center of each ball with a cube of Swiss or cheddar cheese for a gooey surprise.

Dipping Sauce Pairings

Pair your Reuben Balls with flavorful dips to enhance their taste. While Thousand Island dressing is a classic choice, you can try spicy mustard, horseradish aioli, or even honey mustard for variety.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Keeping Reuben Balls Fresh and Tasty

Storage Best Practices

To keep your Reuben Balls crispy and delicious, proper storage is essential. Follow these tips for maintaining freshness:

Store cooked Reuben Balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze uncooked Reuben Balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Tips

For Crispy Results: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes to restore their crunch.
Microwave Option: Although convenient, microwaving can make the coating soggy. Only use this method if necessary.
Frozen to Ready: Bake frozen Reuben Balls at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Never store Reuben Balls while they’re still warm, as condensation can make them soggy.
Avoid overcrowding them in the freezer to ensure even freezing and reheating.

Diet-Friendly Reuben Balls for Everyone

How to Make Reuben Balls Fit Your Diet

Reuben Balls are versatile and can easily be adapted to meet various dietary needs. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, cutting carbs, or following a plant-based diet, these adjustments ensure you can enjoy this classic appetizer guilt-free.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating.
Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are labeled gluten-free.
Opt for homemade Thousand Island dressing using certified gluten-free ingredients.

Low-Carb and Keto Options

Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or a mix of both for a keto-friendly breading.
Replace ketchup with sugar-free alternatives and skip the sweet pickle relish.
Serve with a low-carb dipping sauce, such as a keto Russian dressing.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Alternatives

Replace corned beef with smoked jackfruit or tempeh for a satisfying plant-based option.
Use vegan Swiss cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and ensure all condiments are dairy-free.

Why Customize?

Dietary adaptations not only cater to individual needs but also make this versatile recipe more inclusive. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing snacks for your family, these customizations ensure everyone can enjoy Reuben Balls.

Reuben Balls FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Answers to Common Questions

Can I make Reuben Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook. For longer storage, freeze them uncooked.
How do I make Reuben Balls crispier?
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs and fry them at the correct oil temperature (350°F).
What are the best sauces for dipping Reuben Balls?
The classic choice is Thousand Island dressing, but spicy mustard, Russian dressing, or horseradish aioli are also excellent options.
Can Reuben Balls be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! Bake them at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway for even browning.

Additional Tips

Freeze extras for a quick appetizer anytime.
Experiment with fillings and coatings to suit your preferences.

Why Reuben Balls Deserve a Place on Your Table

A Versatile and Irresistible Appetizer

Reuben Balls offer the perfect combination of classic flavors and modern convenience. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or experimenting with new recipes, these bite-sized treats deliver every time.

Endless Possibilities

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. From gluten-free coatings to vegetarian fillings, Reuben Balls cater to diverse dietary preferences. Plus, with a variety of dipping sauces, they’re never boring.

Engage and Experiment

Ready to try your own version of Reuben Balls? Share your creative twists or favorite dipping sauces in the comments below.

How to Make Perfect Reuben Balls: A Classic Appetizer with Creative Twists