Crispy Reuben Balls

Introduction

I first tried making Crispy Reuben Balls during a casual family gathering, and they were an immediate hit! The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut wrapped up in a crunchy, golden-brown coating created a flavor explosion that had everyone coming back for more. I love how they combine all the delicious elements of a Reuben sandwich but in bite-sized form. My family especially enjoyed dipping them in extra Dijon mustard—adding that perfect tang to each savory bite. These crispy little treats are now a go-to appetizer at all of our gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something savory, Crispy Reuben Balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To make these irresistible Crispy Reuben Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked corned beef, shredded
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, chopped sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
2. Shape the Balls: Once the filling is well mixed, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You can use your hands to roll the mixture into smooth balls. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy handling.
3. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare a breading station by placing the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third.
4. Bread the Balls: Roll each Reuben ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Make sure the balls are fully covered with breadcrumbs. Once breaded, return them to the baking sheet.
5. Fry the Balls: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the Reuben balls in batches, frying them until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking.
6. Drain and Serve: Once the Reuben balls are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the Crispy Reuben Balls warm with additional Dijon mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6 servings
Calories per Serving: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 20g

• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  Cholesterol: 80mg
  Sodium: 800mg
  Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
  Protein: 18g

These crispy little treats are rich and hearty, offering a balanced serving of protein and healthy fats, but they’re definitely a splurge, so be mindful of portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

Crispy Reuben Balls are a versatile snack that can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve as finger food at parties or holiday gatherings, accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces, such as Dijon mustard or Thousand Island dressing.
• With a Side Salad: These crispy bites make a great addition to a simple salad, offering a crunchy, savory contrast to fresh greens.
• With Beer or Wine: Pair these savory bites with a cold beer or a glass of wine for a satisfying snack that complements any beverage.
• In a Sandwich: Place a few crispy Reuben balls in a soft roll or bun with some extra mustard or sauerkraut for a twist on the classic Reuben sandwich.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overfill the Balls: Make sure not to overstuff the balls, as they may break apart when frying. A little filling goes a long way!
2. Use Fresh Corned Beef: While you can use leftover corned beef, fresh, well-seasoned corned beef yields the best flavor.
3. Breadcrumb Texture: For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
4. Proper Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the balls. If the oil is too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
5. Chill Before Frying: If you’re having trouble shaping the balls, refrigerating the mixture for about 20 minutes will help firm it up and make it easier to form into perfect shapes.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Reuben Balls: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the filling to give these Reuben balls a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Reuben Balls: For a gluten-free version, swap the breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Vegetarian Reuben Balls: Substitute the corned beef with a plant-based alternative, like tempeh or jackfruit, for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
• Mini Reuben Balls: Form smaller versions of the Reuben balls to make bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties or gatherings.
• Baked Reuben Balls: If you prefer not to fry, bake these balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions

• With Dips: Serve Crispy Reuben Balls with your choice of dipping sauces, such as creamy mustard, Thousand Island dressing, or even a simple sour cream dip.
• On a Platter: Serve them on a large platter surrounded by fresh veggies and crackers for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
• As Part of a Buffet: Add them to a buffet table with other finger foods, like sliders, spring rolls, and cheese platters, for a fun and easy spread that everyone can enjoy.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftover Reuben balls or want to prepare them in advance, freeze them before frying. Place the breaded balls on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
• Storage: Store any leftover fried Reuben balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use leftover corned beef for this recipe?
   Yes, leftover corned beef works perfectly in this recipe.
2. Can I make these Reuben balls in advance?
   You can prepare and bread the Reuben balls ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.
3. How do I make sure the Reuben balls don’t fall apart when frying?
   Be sure to tightly pack the mixture when forming the balls and ensure the oil is hot before frying.
4. Can I bake these Reuben balls instead of frying them?
   Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier version.
5. Can I freeze the Reuben balls before frying?
   Yes, freeze them before frying for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve.
6. Can I substitute the Swiss cheese with another type of cheese?
   You can use other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, but Swiss cheese is traditional for a Reuben flavor.
7. What dipping sauces pair well with these Reuben balls?
   Dijon mustard, Thousand Island dressing, and creamy ranch are all great options.
8. How do I know when the Reuben balls are done frying?
   The Reuben balls should be golden brown and crispy on all sides, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. How can I make these balls spicier?
   Add some hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or finely chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
10. Can I use a different type of mustard?
    You can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard if you prefer a different flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Reuben Balls are a fun, savory twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, perfect for any gathering or as a snack. With their crunchy exterior, cheesy filling, and tangy bite from the sauerkraut and Dijon mustard, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them at a party, add them to a buffet, or enjoy them as a savory appetizer, these crispy delights are a guaranteed hit.

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