When it comes to party appetizers or game-day snacks, few things hit the spot like something bite-sized, savory, and bursting with bold flavors. That’s exactly what you get with Reuben Balls—a fun, handheld twist on the iconic Reuben sandwich. Stuffed with savory corned beef (or ground beef), tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and aromatic spices, these golden-baked bites are irresistibly flavorful. But the magic doesn’t stop there—they’re paired with a Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce that takes things to the next level with just the right kick of heat.
Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, looking for a creative appetizer, or just want to elevate your snack game, these Reuben balls will become a crowd favorite. They’re easy to make, packed with punchy ingredients, and baked—not fried—for a slightly lighter take on bar-food bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧀 Cheesy, meaty goodness in every bite
- 🔥 Spicy, tangy dipping sauce with bold flavors
- 🍽️ Perfect for parties, tailgates, or casual nights in
- 🍞 Baked instead of fried for less mess and easier prep
- 🕒 Quick to assemble and cook, ready in under 45 minutes
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Reuben Balls:
- 1 pound ground beef or corned beef
Corned beef gives it that authentic Reuben flavor, but ground beef is a great alternative if you’re looking for something milder or more budget-friendly. - 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture—too much liquid can make the mixture soggy. - 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Melts beautifully and adds that signature nutty, creamy taste. - 1 cup breadcrumbs
Helps bind everything together and gives structure to the balls. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For savory depth and flavor. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Adds a hint of sweetness and balance. - 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
These mimic the flavor of rye bread—a clever nod to the original Reuben sandwich. - Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
The creamy base. - ¼ cup ketchup
Adds sweetness and color. - 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce
For that unmistakable zip. - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Adds a sharp, slightly spicy contrast. - 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Use your favorite—Sriracha, Frank’s, or even a smoky chipotle sauce. - Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Reuben Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or corned beef, drained and chopped sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and caraway seeds (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Tip: Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula for best mixing results. You want everything to hold together well without being overly wet or dry.
3. Shape into Balls
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake the Reuben Balls
Bake the balls for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You should see melted cheese and a lightly crispy exterior.
Optional: For extra browning and crispness, broil the balls for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
5. Make the Spicy Thousand Island Sauce
While the Reuben balls bake, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish sauce, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want more heat, add a little more hot sauce until you find your perfect level of spice.
Make-Ahead Tip: This sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge in an airtight container.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, transfer the Reuben balls to a serving platter. Serve warm with a side of your spicy Thousand Island dipping sauce. For extra flair, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or scallions on top, or serve in a bowl lined with lettuce for a fun party presentation.
Serving Ideas & Pairing
Reuben Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of fun and flavorful ways:
- 🍺 Appetizer Platter: Include pickles, potato skins, and deviled eggs for a full snack spread.
- 🥖 Mini Sandwiches: Tuck a few balls into slider buns with a drizzle of the dipping sauce.
- 🧺 Game-Day Feast: Serve with fries, nachos, or wings for a full tailgate menu.
- 🍸 Cocktail Hour: Pair with a rye whiskey old fashioned or a spicy Bloody Mary.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover Reuben balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 30–60 seconds until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked balls for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cook time.
Final Thoughts
Reuben Balls with Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce are the kind of appetizer that turns heads and wins hearts. They combine the comforting familiarity of a deli sandwich with the convenience and excitement of a party-ready snack. With rich, savory flavors, gooey cheese, and a tangy-spicy dipping sauce that keeps you coming back for more, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, planning a game night, or just in the mood for something creative and crave-worthy, these bite-sized treats are guaranteed to please.