There's something irresistible about the cozy aromas that fill my kitchen when comfort food is in the air. If you've ever found yourself craving the savory combination of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, you're in for a delightful surprise. Enter my Reuben Balls, a playful twist on the classic sandwich that will elevate your appetizer game without the fuss of traditional cooking.
These tiny morsels pack all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich into bite-sized delights, perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at your next gathering. With their crunchy exterior and cheesy, flavorful filling, they come together easily and bake to golden perfection in just 25 minutes. The added kick from the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce takes them over the top! So whether you're looking to reinvent a beloved favorite or simply seek an exciting change from your usual menu, these Reuben Balls are here to save the day. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring joy to your table!
Why You'll Love This Reuben Balls
- These Reuben Balls are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up an impressive appetizer with minimal effort.
- The delicious blend of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese offers a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will rave about.
- Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a fancy party.
- Plus, the visual appeal of these golden, bite-sized treats will have your guests clamoring for more.
Reuben Balls Ingredients
Discover the essential ingredients that bring these delicious Reuben Balls to life!
For the Filling
- Chopped corned beef – a classic element that gives these Reuben Balls their savory flavor.
- Well-drained sauerkraut – adds a tangy crunch that perfectly complements the meat.
- Shredded Swiss cheese – melts beautifully for that creamy texture everyone loves.
- Breadcrumbs – regular or panko helps bind the mixture together and gives a delightful crunch.
- Large eggs – act as a binding agent to hold all the ingredients together.
For the Dipping Sauce
- Mayonnaise – provides a creamy base for your sauce, enhancing flavor.
- Ketchup – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
- Hot sauce – gives that necessary kick, making the sauce the perfect partner for your Reuben Balls!
How to Make Reuben Balls
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This helps ensure the Reuben Balls bake evenly and don’t stick to the surface.
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Combine the chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs in a large bowl. Mix until everything is well-blended, creating a flavorful filling that excites the taste buds.
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Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll it into golf ball-sized balls. This step is fun, so make sure they’re well-formed for that perfect bite!
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Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they can breathe. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are crisp on the outside—this texture makes all the difference!
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Prepare the dipping sauce while the Reuben Balls are baking. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and hot sauce until smooth and spicy. This dipping sauce is a must-try complement!
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Serve your Reuben Balls warm alongside the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce and watch as everyone digs in happily!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Reuben Balls
Room Temperature: Store baked Reuben Balls in an airtight container for up to 2 hours, ensuring they are kept covered to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: Keep any leftover Reuben Balls in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to preserve their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked Reuben Balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to achieve that golden crunch again while enjoying the rich flavors of your Reuben Balls.
Make Ahead Options
These Reuben Balls are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can easily prepare the filling (corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just form the mixture into balls and proceed with the baking instructions. To maintain their quality, be sure to refrigerate the filling and avoid letting it sit out. You can also make the spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the fridge and mix before serving. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll have delectable Reuben Balls ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Reuben Balls Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these fun twists and customizable options!
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Veggie Delight: Swap corned beef for finely chopped mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. You'll enjoy a hearty, savory taste without the meat!
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheese and substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free treat. These small changes don’t sacrifice flavor and keep everyone happy at the table.
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Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for an extra kick. The heat pairs beautifully with the tangy sauerkraut, making every bite exciting!
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Crunchy Topping: Mix some crushed potato chips into the breadcrumb coating for enhanced crunch. This delightful texture twist is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
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Mustard Variation: Incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the filling for a zesty pop. This addition elevates the flavor profile and provides a delicious tang that complements the Reuben.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh dill or parsley into the filling for a burst of fresh flavor. The herbs add a lovely aroma and brightness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the filling for a hint of smokiness. This subtle shift in flavor creates an unexpected depth, making it oh-so-tempting.
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Sweet and Spicy Dip: Substitute the hot sauce in the dipping sauce for a sweet chili sauce for a delightful twist. This sweet-and-spicy combo works wonders for those who enjoy a bit of both!
What to Serve with Reuben Balls?
Creating a delightful meal is all about balancing flavors, textures, and the joy of sharing with loved ones.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the savory Reuben Balls, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Roasted Potatoes: The warm, buttery flavor of roasted potatoes pairs beautifully with the bold tastes of the Reuben Balls for comforting satisfaction.
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Garlic Bread: This crispy, aromatic bread offers a lovely texture and it perfects the dipping experience—ideal for scooping up extra sauce!
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Pickles: These zesty bites complement the Reuben Balls’ rich flavors while cutting through the creaminess of the dipping sauce.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispiness create a delightful contrast against the savory filling, making for an exciting flavor pairing.
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Beer or Cider: A light lager or crisp cider enhances the overall experience, with refreshing notes that cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey treats offer a sweet counterpoint to the savory appetizer, rounding out a perfect meal.
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Apple Cider: This warming drink balances the flavors nicely and provides a touch of sweetness, making every bite of Reuben Balls even more enjoyable!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Reuben Balls, ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid a soggy mixture.
- When rolling the balls, make sure they're tightly packed to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
- Consider using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that elevates the dish.
- Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary; the Reuben Balls should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done.
Reuben Balls Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select corned beef for Reuben Balls?
Absolutely! When choosing corned beef for your Reuben Balls, look for well-marbled cuts, as this will give you the most flavor. Fresh corned beef should have a vibrant pink color without any brown or dull patches. If you can, buy from a deli where you can ask for freshly sliced corned beef.
How should I store leftover Reuben Balls?
Very! For optimal freshness, store leftover Reuben Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes helps them regain their crunchy texture while redistributing their delicious flavors.
Can I freeze Reuben Balls? If so, how?
You definitely can! To freeze your uncooked Reuben Balls, first arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time during baking.
What should I do if my Reuben Balls are falling apart?
No worries! If your Reuben Balls are falling apart, this usually indicates the mixture may be too wet. To fix this, add a bit more breadcrumbs until you achieve a firmer consistency. Ensure your sauerkraut is well-drained; any excess moisture will compromise the mixture. Tight packing while rolling them into balls also helps prevent breakage!
Are there any allergens in Reuben Balls?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy (from the cheese and mayonnaise). If serving to guests with dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives like egg substitutes and dairy-free cheese to make these delightful bites more inclusive. For veggie options, you could also try substituting the corned beef with a plant-based meat alternative.
Reuben Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Combine the chopped corned beef, well-drained sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs in a large bowl.
- Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll it into golf ball-sized balls.
- Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and are crisp on the outside.
- Prepare the dipping sauce while the Reuben Balls are baking by mixing together mayonnaise, ketchup, and hot sauce.
- Serve your Reuben Balls warm alongside the spicy dipping sauce.
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