Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the ultimate party snack or game-day indulgence. Think crispy, golden shells filled with everything you love about a classic Reuben sandwich—savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese—all rolled into one addictive bite-sized treat. The spicy dipping sauce? It ties everything together with a creamy, punchy kick you won’t soon forget.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something crispy and flavorful, these Reuben Balls offer all the comfort of a deli-style sandwich with the excitement of finger food. They’re easy to prep ahead of time, freezer-friendly, and absolutely irresistible when served hot and crispy right from the fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These little balls of joy are everything we want in an appetizer: crunchy, gooey, savory, and spicy. They pack a surprising punch of flavor and texture, making them a crowd favorite at any event. The blend of salty corned beef, creamy cheese, and sour sauerkraut is classic, and when fried to a golden crisp, it’s pure magic.

What Kind of Corned Beef Should I Use?

You can use either deli-sliced corned beef or leftover cooked corned beef for this recipe. Deli slices are convenient and shred easily, but if you have homemade corned beef from a previous meal, even better. Just make sure to finely chop it so the balls hold together well and every bite has a balanced flavor.

Ingredients for the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben Balls are a delightful twist on a classic sandwich, and their rich flavor relies on a carefully selected group of ingredients. Each one brings an essential note to the balance of taste and texture, from the savory meat to the zesty dipping sauce.

Corned beef
Swiss cheese
Sauerkraut
Cream cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Dill pickle relish
Hot sauce
Paprika

How To Make the Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, softened cream cheese, and spices. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Shape the Balls

Scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture and place the balls on a lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Chill for Firmness

Refrigerate the shaped balls for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape when frying.

Step 4: Bread the Balls

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each chilled ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure they are well-covered.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, hot sauce, and a pinch of paprika. Adjust the heat level to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the hot Reuben Balls with a generous side of spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce and serve immediately while crispy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Reuben Balls are relatively simple to make, but a few missteps can affect their flavor or texture. Avoid overstuffing the filling; too much sauerkraut or cream cheese can lead to soggy centers or leaking during frying. Always make sure the filling mixture is chilled before shaping and breading—this helps them stay intact. And don’t rush the frying; the oil must be hot enough (350°F) to crisp up the exterior without absorbing excess grease.

Serving and Storing These Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce

These Reuben Balls are best served hot and crispy, right after frying, but they can also be prepped ahead. The filling can be made up to a day in advance, and the shaped balls can be refrigerated or even frozen until ready to fry. Once cooked, they reheat well in the oven or air fryer. This recipe makes about 24 balls, enough to feed 6 to 8 people as an appetizer.

What to Serve With Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce?

Marinated Veggie Skewers

Their tangy crunch contrasts nicely with the richness of the balls.

Crispy Dill Pickles

Pickles cut through the fat and match the classic deli theme.

Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites

Another finger food favorite that plays well at parties.

Creamy Coleslaw

A chilled and creamy side balances the heat of the dipping sauce.

Classic Potato Salad

Hearty and satisfying, it completes the comfort food experience.

Rye Bread Chips

To keep that Reuben flavor going, serve these alongside for an extra crunch.

Sweet Potato Fries

Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the spicy sauce.

Sparkling Lemonade or Lager

Whether you go light and citrusy or with a crisp beer, it rounds out the snack spread.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, you’ll want to try these other unique and crowd-pleasing appetizers:

Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe for a buttery, meaty handheld treat.
Authentic 7 Layer Mexican Dip with layers of creamy, zesty flavor.
Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower if you love spicy bites with a healthier twist.
Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for a hearty side to pair with appetizers.
Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies when you need a sweet counterpart.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy with the dipping sauce? Did you add a twist like pastrami or rye chips?

I love hearing how others put their own spin on it. Questions are welcome too—let’s make snack hour even better.

Explore beautifully curated party-ready bites and other delicious creations on Nina Dishes on Pinterest. You’re bound to discover your next go-to appetizer!

Conclusion

Crispy, savory, and oozing with flavor, Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are more than just another appetizer. They turn a deli favorite into a fun finger food that guests won’t stop reaching for. Whether it’s game day, a holiday spread, or an anytime snack craving, these bites bring big flavor in small packages.