Crispy Reuben Balls

These Crispy Reuben Balls take everything you love about the classic Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing—into a crunchy, bite-sized appetizer. Perfect for game day, parties, or a fun snack, these golden-fried delights are packed with bold flavor and irresistible texture.

The first time I made Crispy Reuben Balls, I wanted to put a creative spin on my husband’s favorite sandwich. My daughter loved the crispy coating, and my husband couldn’t stop dipping them in extra Thousand Island dressing. Now, they’re a must-have for any gathering!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Reuben Balls

•Crunchy & Cheesy: A crispy golden exterior with a melty, savory center.

•Perfect for Parties: A unique and flavorful appetizer.

•Handheld & Fun: All the flavors of a Reuben in one bite.

•Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and fry when ready.

Ingredients Notes For Crispy Reuben Balls

•Corned Beef: Finely chopped or shredded for the best texture.

•Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully for creamy bites.

•Sauerkraut: Drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.

•Thousand Island Dressing: Adds tangy, creamy flavor.

•Cream Cheese: Helps bind the mixture together.

•Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch.

•Eggs & Flour: Essential for coating and frying.

Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the Reuben Filling:

1.In a bowl, mix corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, and Thousand Island dressing until well combined.

2.Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm up.

2. Coat the Reuben Balls:

1.Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.

2.Roll each frozen ball in flour, dip into the eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.

3. Fry Until Golden:

1.Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or fryer.

2.Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

3.Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Serve & Enjoy:

Serve hot with extra Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard for dipping.

Storage Options

•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

•Freezer: Freeze uncooked balls and fry straight from frozen.

Variations & Substitutions

•Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes instead of frying.

•Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

•Extra Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella for even more gooey goodness.

Crispy Reuben Balls

These Crispy Reuben Balls take all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing—rolled into bite-sized, deep-fried perfection. These crunchy, cheesy delights make the ultimate appetizer or party snack, served with a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping!

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Course: Appetizer, Snack

Kitchen: American, Irish-inspired

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Servings: 18 balls

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ For the Filling:
• ▢ 1 ½ cups 0.75 lbs of finely chopped corned beef
• ▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs of shredded Swiss cheese
• ▢ ½ cup 0.25 lbs of drained and chopped sauerkraut
• ▢ 4 oz 0.25 lbs of cream cheese, softened
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• ▢ ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ▢ ½ teaspoon of onion powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• ▢ For Breading:
• ▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs of all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2 large eggs beaten
• ▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs of seasoned breadcrumbs
• ▢ ½ teaspoon of salt
• ▢ ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
• ▢ For Frying:
• ▢ 2 cups 1 lb of vegetable oil (for frying)
• ▢ For Serving:
• ▢ ½ cup 0.25 lbs of Thousand Island dressing (for dipping)
• ▢ Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

• Prepare the Filling:
• In a mixing bowl, combine chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, cream cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard.
• Mix until well combined, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
• Form the Balls:
• Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bread the Balls:
• Set up a breading station with three bowls:
• Flour in the first bowl.
• Beaten eggs in the second bowl.
• Breadcrumbs mixed with salt and smoked paprika in the third bowl.
• Roll each ball in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
• Fry Until Crispy:
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the balls in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
• Serve & Enjoy:
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.