When the craving for something hearty and comforting hits, I love transforming leftover corned beef into something delightfully unexpected: Delicious Reuben Balls. The first time I made these, I was digging through my fridge with no clear plan, and I stumbled upon a little jar of sauerkraut nestled next to the Swiss cheese. It sparked an idea that not only made my taste buds dance but also turned a mundane weeknight dinner into a lively feast.
These crispy, golden bites boast all the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich but serve them up in a fun, shareable form that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine the satisfying crunch followed by the melty goodness of cheese, juicy corned beef, and a zesty sauce that ties it all together! Plus, they’re easy to whip up and sure to impress—whether you’re catering to family or simply indulging in a bit of self-care through comfort food. Get ready to make some magic in your kitchen!
Why will you love these Delicious Reuben Balls?
Crispy Crunch: The golden-brown exterior provides a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy interior.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is bursting with the iconic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—juicy corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for even beginner cooks, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these shareable bites are sure to win over everyone at the table.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as an appetizer or a snack, and pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these Delicious Reuben Balls—just one bite and you’ll understand why they’ve become a favorite in my home!
Delicious Reuben Balls Ingredients
For the Balls
- Cooked corned beef – finely chopped ensures even flavor distribution.
- Shredded Swiss cheese – adds that iconic creamy texture and flavor.
- Sauerkraut – makes sure to drain and chop it for a perfect mix of zest!
- Breadcrumbs – help bind the mixture and create a delightful crunch.
- Large egg – acts as a binder, holding the balls together.
- Dijon mustard – brings a hint of tang that complements the flavors.
- Garlic powder – adds a subtle depth and warmth to the balls.
- Salt and pepper – season to taste for a balanced flavor profile.
- Olive oil – use for frying; it gives the balls a lovely golden color.
For the Dipping Sauce
- Mayonnaise – creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- Ketchup – adds sweetness and a touch of tanginess.
- Sweet pickle relish – introduces a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully.
- Hot sauce – toss in for a kick of heat that elevates the flavors.
- Lemon juice – brightens up the sauce for a zesty finish.
- Salt and pepper – adjust to your preference for the perfect dipping experience.
With these Delicious Reuben Balls ingredients at hand, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure that promises satisfying flavors and heartwarming moments!
How to Make Delicious Reuben Balls
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the finely chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, chopped sauerkraut, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
-
Shape the Balls: Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. This is a fun step, and you can let the kids join in!
-
Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the balls sizzle when they hit the pan, so give it a moment!
-
Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown on all sides, typically around 4-5 minutes, and heated through.
-
Make the Dipping Sauce: While the balls are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper in a separate bowl. This zesty sauce will be the perfect complement!
Optional: Serve with garnish of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Delicious Reuben Balls
Don’t Overmix:: Be gentle when combining the ingredients; overmixing can make your balls tough instead of tender and fluffy.
Perfecting the Size:: Roll balls about the size of a golf ball for even cooking—too small can dry out, while too large may not cook through.
Oil Temperature Check:: Ensure the olive oil is properly heated before frying to achieve that irresistible golden brown outer layer.
Taste and Adjust:: Always taste the mixture before rolling; season with salt and pepper to ensure your Delicious Reuben Balls are packed with flavor.
Batch Frying:: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Reuben Balls
Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover Delicious Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.
Freezer: Freeze cooked balls in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What to Serve with Delicious Reuben Balls?
Build a meal that perfectly complements these crispy bites, capturing both heartiness and fun!
- Classic Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and creamy texture that balances well with the rich flavors of the Reuben balls.
- Tangy Potato Salad: The creaminess and tang will enhance the savory taste of the balls, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks serve as the perfect vehicle for your zesty dipping sauce, making every bite unforgettable.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they offer a wonderful flavor pairing with the savory corned beef, making your meal more vibrant.
- Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles brings a burst of zing that complements the sauerkraut and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Beer or Cider: A crisp lager or fruity cider will elevate the hearty taste of your meal, making it even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Stout Brownies: End on a sweet note with fudgy brownies that will contrast beautifully with the savory bites, pleasing everyone’s sweet tooth.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: A small bowl of vibrant tomato soup provides a comforting, warm dip for your Reuben balls, connecting flavors in a nostalgic way.
Delicious Reuben Balls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize your Delicious Reuben Balls to suit your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Swiss cheese with dairy-free cheese for a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a fiery twist that elevates your flavor experience.
- Pork Free: Swap out corned beef for shredded chicken or turkey to create a lighter version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Herbal Touch: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the mixture for an extra layer of freshness and flavor to your balls.
- Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the balls on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to increase the veggie content while adding colorful crunch.
- Sweet and Sour: Drizzle a bit of barbecue sauce over the balls right before serving for a delightful sweet-and-sour contrast that’s hard to resist.
Experimenting with these variations will keep your Delicious Reuben Balls exciting and just the way you like them!
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Reuben Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance—just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. If you want to take it a step further, you can freeze the uncooked balls for up to 3 months; simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen (just add an extra couple of minutes to the cooking time) or thaw in the refrigerator overnight for quick frying. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious crunch and flavor with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Delicious Reuben Balls Recipe FAQs
What type of corned beef should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using well-cooked, flavorful corned beef for the best results. You can use homemade corned beef if you have leftovers, or store-bought deli-style corned beef works beautifully too. Just be sure to chop it finely to distribute the flavor evenly across all the Delicious Reuben Balls!
How can I properly store leftover Delicious Reuben Balls?
You can store your leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I often reheat them in the oven or an air fryer. Simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place them on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through!
Can I freeze the Delicious Reuben Balls?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty balls! To do this, lay the cooked balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re firm, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight prior to reheating.
What should I do if my balls fall apart during cooking?
If your Delicious Reuben Balls are falling apart, it might be that the mixture is too loose. You can easily fix this by adding extra breadcrumbs, about a tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is firmer. Additionally, letting the formed balls chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying can help them hold together better!
Are there any dietary considerations for these Delicious Reuben Balls?
Yes, indeed! If you’re sensitive to gluten, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a dairy-free option, substitute the Swiss cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use vegan mayonnaise in the dipping sauce. Always make sure to check food labels for potential allergens that may be included in the ingredients!
Irresistible Delicious Reuben Balls You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the finely chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, chopped sauerkraut, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- In a skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat until hot.
- Carefully place the balls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on all sides, typically around 4-5 minutes.
- While the balls are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, hot sauce, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper in a separate bowl.