Crispy Reuben Balls

Introduction

If you’re looking for a unique and delicious snack that combines savory, cheesy, and tangy flavors, then these Crispy Reuben Balls are just what you need! As someone who loves experimenting with traditional recipes, I was excited to try making Reuben sandwiches into bite-sized, crispy snacks. The results were nothing short of spectacular. These crispy, golden balls capture all the delicious flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Dijon mustard—perfectly blended into a fun, bite-sized snack that everyone will love.

The family absolutely loved these Crispy Reuben Balls! My husband, who’s a big fan of Reuben sandwiches, couldn’t stop raving about them. Even my kids, who are usually a little picky when it comes to trying new things, devoured these crispy treats with joy. The mixture of creamy cream cheese and melted Swiss cheese inside the crispy coating is heavenly. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at a party or enjoy them as a savory snack during the game, they are always a hit. If you’ve got a crowd to please or just want to enjoy a flavorful twist on the classic Reuben, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 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

For the Breading:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

1. Mix the Filling
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, chopped sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until everything is fully combined and evenly distributed.
2. Roll into Balls
   Using your hands, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate for easy handling.
3. Set Up the Breading Station
   In three separate shallow dishes, prepare the breading ingredients: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
4. Bread the Balls
   Take each ball and roll it first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently on the breadcrumb coating to ensure an even and firm covering.
5. Fry Until Golden
   Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat. Once the oil reaches the right temperature, fry the Reuben balls in batches, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the balls are cooked, remove them from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve them warm with Dijon mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 ball (based on 12 servings)
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• As an Appetizer: Serve these crispy Reuben balls as an appetizer at your next holiday party or gathering. They’ll be the star of the show!
• Game Day Snack: These make for an ideal game day snack. Pair them with cold drinks and your favorite dipping sauces.
• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the Reuben balls.
• With Dips: They are delicious served with a variety of dips, such as classic Dijon mustard, creamy ranch dressing, or a tangy Thousand Island dressing for an extra Reuben twist.
• As a Main Course: For a more substantial meal, serve the Reuben balls with roasted potatoes or fries on the side.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Corned Beef: For a slightly healthier version, opt for lean corned beef to reduce the fat content in the filling.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: When frying the balls, be sure not to overcrowd the pan or fryer. Fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
3. Keep the Balls Small: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls for the perfect bite-sized snacks. If the balls are too large, they might not cook through evenly.
4. Chill the Balls Before Frying: If you have time, chill the breaded balls in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying. This will help them hold their shape better while frying.
5. Use a Fry Thermometer: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F) before frying. If the oil is too hot, the balls may burn; if it’s too cold, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Reuben Balls: Add a little sriracha or hot sauce to the filling for an extra spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Reuben Balls: Substitute the corned beef with tempeh or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheddar Reuben Balls: Swap the Swiss cheese for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor profile.
• Baked Reuben Balls: If you prefer a lighter version, bake the Reuben balls at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through.
• Mini Reuben Balls: For a bite-sized appetizer, make mini Reuben balls by rolling them smaller than the 1-inch size. Adjust the frying time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Cheese Platter: Serve these crispy Reuben balls alongside a selection of cheeses, crackers, and pickles for a fun and delicious snack spread.
• With Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw pairs well with the richness of the Reuben balls, offering a refreshing contrast.
• On a Sandwich: If you’re a Reuben sandwich lover, place a few crispy Reuben balls in a sandwich with rye bread, some melted cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing.
• With Pickles: Serve with dill or bread-and-butter pickles on the side to complement the salty, savory flavors of the Reuben balls.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These Reuben balls freeze well. After frying, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Storage: Store leftover Reuben balls in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
• Prepping Ahead: You can make the filling and form the balls a day ahead. Just bread them before frying and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I bake the Reuben balls instead of frying them?
   Yes! You can bake the balls at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. They’ll be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling and form the balls ahead of time. Just bread and fry them when ready to serve.
3. How do I prevent the Reuben balls from falling apart?
   Make sure the filling is well mixed and that you coat the balls evenly with breadcrumbs. Chilling the balls before frying can also help them hold their shape.
4. Can I use sauerkraut from a can instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use canned sauerkraut, but make sure to drain and chop it finely to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
6. What can I serve with the Reuben balls?
   Serve them with dipping sauces like Dijon mustard, Thousand Island dressing, or ranch. They’re also great with pickles or coleslaw.
7. Can I make these Reuben balls spicy?
   Yes, you can add hot sauce or jalapeños to the filling to give the Reuben balls some extra heat.
8. How do I know when the Reuben balls are done frying?
   The Reuben balls are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. They should take about 3

-4 minutes per side.

9. Can I make the Reuben balls vegetarian?
   Yes, you can substitute the corned beef with tempeh, mushrooms, or another plant-based protein.
10. Can I use a different type of mustard?
    Yes, you can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy Reuben Balls are a fun, creative way to enjoy all the flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich in a bite-sized snack. They’re savory, cheesy, and perfectly crispy, making them a perfect addition to any party or gathering. With endless variations and dipping sauce options, you’ll never get bored of these little treats. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, enjoying game day, or simply craving a snack, these Reuben balls are sure to impress everyone. Try them today and experience a crispy, cheesy twist on a beloved classic!

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