Growing up, Reuben Balls were a staple in our household. I can still vividly remember the mouthwatering aroma that would fill our kitchen whenever my mom whipped up a batch. The savory, cheesy goodness was just irresistible, and I’d race to the table, eager to sink my teeth into those crispy, golden-brown bites. Even now, the mere thought of Reuben Balls takes me back to those cozy, comfort-filled family dinners. It’s a recipe that’s become a true part of my culinary DNA, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.
Why This Reuben Balls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
There’s just something special about Reuben Balls that sets them apart from other appetizers or snacks. The perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory flavors creates a taste sensation that’s simply out of this world. But what really makes this recipe a standout is the unique cooking method. By lightly frying the Reuben Balls, you end up with a crispy exterior that gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth interior – it’s a texture that’s truly unbeatable. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll be hooked.
The Secret Behind Perfect Reuben Balls
The key to achieving that incredible texture lies in the way we prepare the filling. Instead of simply mixing the ingredients together, we take the time to sauté the corned beef and sauerkraut, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. This extra step might seem small, but it makes all the difference in the world. Plus, by grating the Swiss cheese rather than using slices, you end up with a more evenly distributed, gooey center that oozes out with every bite. It’s a game-changer, I promise.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Reuben Balls are all about the classic flavors, so you’ll need:
- Corned beef, finely chopped
- Sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- Swiss cheese, grated
- Thousand Island dressing
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Reuben Balls Instructions
Preparing Your Reuben Balls
Ready to bring these Reuben Balls to life? It’s a straightforward process that takes just about 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large skillet, a mixing bowl, and a small scoop or spoon to get the job done. Let’s dive in!
1- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped corned beef and drained sauerkraut until heated through and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. This helps intensify the flavors.
2- Remove the corned beef and sauerkraut mixture from the heat and stir in the grated Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing until well combined.
3- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs. Set up a breading station with the flour and breadcrumbs in shallow dishes.
4- Using a small scoop or spoon, portion the corned beef mixture into balls, about 1-2 tablespoons each. Dip each ball first in the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
5- In the same skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded Reuben Balls and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6- Transfer the fried Reuben Balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Reuben Balls is all in the preparation. Make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze the sauerkraut to prevent a soggy filling. And be gentle when forming the balls – you don’t want to compact the mixture too much, or it can become dense. Also, keep an eye on the oil temperature – you want it hot enough to achieve that golden-brown crust without burning the exterior. Lastly, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding a bit more salt, pepper, or Thousand Island dressing as needed.
Serving and Storing Your Reuben Balls
Perfect Pairings for Reuben Balls
Reuben Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or just a casual family dinner. Serve them alongside a tangy, creamy Thousand Island dressing for dipping, or try them with a zesty horseradish sauce for an extra kick. They also pair beautifully with a crisp, refreshing beer or a classic cocktail like a Moscow Mule.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Fortunately, Reuben Balls are super easy to make ahead and store. Once the balls are fried and cooled, you can place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also freeze the uncooked, breaded balls for up to 3 months. Just transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight before frying.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Reuben Balls
Creative Reuben Balls Variations
While the classic Reuben Balls are a true delight, there’s always room for a little creativity. Try swapping out the corned beef for shredded pastrami or even smoked turkey for a twist on the flavor profile. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or even a spicy pepper jack. And for a touch of freshness, try adding chopped green onions or a sprinkle of caraway seeds to the filling.
Making Reuben Balls Diet-Friendly
Reuben Balls can easily be adapted to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers in the breading. To make them vegan, swap the corned beef for marinated and sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. And for a low-carb spin, you can ditch the breadcrumbs and bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked corned beef instead of sautéing it?
A: While you can use pre-cooked corned beef, I highly recommend taking the extra step to sauté it. The caramelized edges and intensified flavors make a big difference in the overall taste and texture of the Reuben Balls.
Q: How do I know when the Reuben Balls are done frying?
A: You’ll want to look for a deep golden-brown color on the outside, and you can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F. The Reuben Balls should feel crisp and firm to the touch when ready.
Q: Can I make the Reuben Balls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and even bread the balls in advance. Just store the uncooked, breaded Reuben Balls in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months before frying.
Q: How many Reuben Balls does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield approximately 18-20 Reuben Balls, depending on the size you form them. It’s a great shareable appetizer that can feed a crowd.
Q: Why are my Reuben Balls falling apart when I fry them?
A: If your Reuben Balls are falling apart, it’s likely because the filling is too wet or the breading isn’t adhering properly. Make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze the sauerkraut, and be gentle when forming the balls to prevent them from becoming too compact.
Reuben Balls: A 25-Minute Irresistible Appetizer
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 24 balls
Description
Bite-sized, flavor-packed Reuben Balls are a quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you need a delicious snack. Filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, these crispy balls are utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
– 1 lb corned beef, chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. – In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, Thousand Island dressing, and black pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. – Scoop the mixture by the tablespoonful and roll into balls.
3. – In a large skillet, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. – Carefully add the Reuben Balls to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. – Transfer the fried Reuben Balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. – Serve warm, with additional Thousand Island dressing for dipping, if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of caraway seeds to the mixture. These Reuben Balls can be kept warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There you have it, my friends – the secret to making the most mouthwatering, crave-worthy Reuben Balls right at home. This recipe is a true labor of love, but I promise, the end result is well worth the effort. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out in the comments below. Enjoy!
