Name: Reuben Balls Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 12 ounces corned beef, cooked, trimmed, and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; 2/3 cup Swiss cheese, chopped or grated; 1 can sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry (14 oz); 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 2 teaspoons grainy mustard; 8 slices rye bread, toasted and processed into crumbs (about 1 1/2 cups); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large egg whites (1/4 cup); Canola oil, for frying (quantity as needed); Thousand Island dressing, for dipping

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 86 reviews

If you love the bold, tangy flavors of a classic deli sandwich but want to serve them in an irresistible bite-sized form, this Reuben Balls Recipe is going to become your new favorite snack or appetizer. With juicy corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, zesty sauerkraut, and creamy cream cheese all combined and fried to a perfectly golden crisp, these little balls deliver that legendary Reuben sandwich experience in a fun and shareable package. Whether for a party, game day, or just a special treat, the Reuben Balls will wow your taste buds and your guests without any fuss.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows twenty-four raw meat and cheese balls arranged in a 4 by 6 grid on a silver drying rack lined with white parchment paper. The balls have a rough texture with visible bits of pink meat and white cheese mixed with small green herbs. The drying rack sits on the metal grates of a stove, with a shiny silver finish around the edges. The whole setup is under bright light, with a white marbled background visible in the area around the stove. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Reuben Balls. From the tangy sauerkraut to the crispy rye bread crumbs, every component adds depth, creaminess, or crunch that makes this dish unforgettable.

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing onions to add sweetness and softness to the filling.
Chopped onion (½ cup): Adds a mild sharpness and moisture that balances the hearty beef.
Corned beef, cooked and chopped (12 ounces): The savory star ingredient bringing that classic deli meat punch.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Offers a subtle aromatic warmth enhancing the overall flavor.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Creates a luscious, creamy texture that binds the filling.
Swiss cheese, chopped or grated (⅔ cup): Melts beautifully, delivering nutty richness with every bite.
Sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry (1 can, 14 ounces): Imparts that essential tangy and crunchy element synonymous with Reubens.
Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds fresh color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.
Grainy mustard (2 teaspoons): Provides a punch of piquant heat and complexity.
Rye bread, toasted and processed into crumbs (8 slices, about 1 ½ cups): Gives a distinct, earthy crunch to the outside coating.
All-purpose flour (½ cup): Helps the breading stick perfectly to the balls during frying.
Large egg whites (2, about ¼ cup): Acts as a glue for the final crumb coating to become crispy and golden.
Thousand Island dressing: The classic creamy, tangy dip that completes the signature Reuben flavor combo.

How to Make Reuben Balls Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating vegetable oil in a skillet, then sauté the chopped onions until they soften and turn translucent. This step brings out their natural sweetness which perfectly complements the savory corned beef later on.

Step 2: Warm the Corned Beef and Garlic

Add the chopped corned beef and minced garlic to the skillet with the onions. Cook on medium-low heat for about two minutes, just until everything is warmed through and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without burning.

Step 3: Melt in the Cream Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the cream cheese. Mixing this in while the pan is warm allows the cream cheese to melt smoothly, transforming the mixture into a creamy, luscious base for the Reuben balls.

Step 4: Mix in Swiss, Sauerkraut, Parsley, and Mustard

Next, fold in the Swiss cheese, drained sauerkraut, chopped parsley, and grainy mustard. These ingredients add layers of sharpness, tang, freshness, and a slight kick that define the classic Reuben flavor profile, blending beautifully with the creamy base.

Step 5: Incorporate Rye Bread Crumbs

Stir in about three tablespoons of the toasted rye bread crumbs into the mixture. The bread crumbs help absorb any excess moisture and provide structure, making it easier to shape your balls without losing the filling’s moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Form into Balls and Chill

Allow the mixture to cool until it is easy to handle. Then, roll it into 1-and-a-half-inch balls. After shaping, coat each ball lightly in flour and place them in the refrigerator to cool completely. This step firms up the balls, so they hold their shape during frying.

Step 7: Coat with Egg Whites and Bread Crumbs

Dip each chilled ball into the egg whites, then roll them thoroughly in the remaining rye bread crumbs for that crispy exterior. Refrigerate the coated balls for 1 to 2 hours to let them set and get even firmer, ensuring the coating sticks well before frying.

Step 8: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat canola oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat. Fry the Reuben balls in batches until they are a gorgeous golden brown all over, which usually takes just a few minutes. Drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil and preserve their crunchy texture.

Step 9: Serve Warm with Dipping Sauce

Serve the Reuben balls immediately while they are warm and the cheese inside is gooey. Don’t forget the classic Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping—that creamy, tangy sauce is what truly completes the iconic taste!

How to Serve Reuben Balls Recipe

Five round, deep golden brown fried balls with a textured, crispy crumb coating sit scattered on a white paper towel placed on a white marbled surface. Small crumbs are around the balls, showing their crunchy outside. The lighting highlights the warm, rich tones of the crispy crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the hot Reuben Balls instantly adds a pop of color and refreshing herbaceous aroma. A lemon wedge on the side can also brighten each bite, balancing the richness of the fried exterior and cheese filling.

Side Dishes

Pair these flavorful bites with light, crisp sides like a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette or crunchy pickles to complement the savory, creamy Reuben Balls without overpowering them. A bowl of coleslaw offers a classic deli vibe and crunch contrast, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual get-togethers, serve Reuben Balls on a platter lined with parchment and toothpicks or small forks so guests can easily grab and dip them. You can also arrange them in mini sandwich buns to create bite-sized Reuben sliders, offering a playful twist on this crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Reuben Balls left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days and stay flavorful and moist inside while maintaining some crispness outside when properly reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked, breaded Reuben Balls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. This way, you can keep them for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, fry from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time for a hot, fresh-tasting snack anytime.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Reuben Balls, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crispy. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the crunchy coating, so oven reheating is best to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Reuben Balls Recipe?

While Swiss cheese is traditional and gives the balls their classic nutty flavor, you can experiment with Gruyère or even mozzarella for a milder melt. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep that gooey inside texture.

Is it possible to bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy. They won’t be quite as crunchy as fried, but still delicious and easier to make.

What if I don’t have rye bread? Can I substitute it?

If rye bread isn’t available, pumpernickel or even sourdough bread crumbs can work well to provide a similar hearty flavor. Try to toast the crumbs to develop that toasty crunch and flavor depth.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. This actually helps the flavors meld better. When ready to serve, form the balls and continue with the coating and frying steps.

What dipping sauces go best with this Reuben Balls Recipe besides Thousand Island?

While Thousand Island is the classic match, spicy mustard, horseradish sauce, or even a creamy dill dip complement the Reuben Balls beautifully, giving you a chance to customize the dipping experience to your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a fun finger food that packs all the charm of a deli favorite, this Reuben Balls Recipe will not disappoint. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, crispy, and savory that’s sure to impress family and friends. Give it a try and watch how these little golden bites become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!