Crispy Reuben Balls
Crispy Reuben Balls are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, combining all the savory flavors into bite-sized snacks that are perfect for any occasion. These crunchy morsels pack in the traditional ingredients of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, making them an excellent choice for game days, parties, or a cozy family dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
There are a plethora of reasons to make Crispy Reuben Balls. First, they offer a fun and interactive way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich without the need for bread. They’re perfect as appetizers or snacks, and their vibrant flavors appeal to a wide range of palates. Additionally, they are easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time for convenience. Plus, who doesn’t love deep-fried, crispy treats? Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something delicious, these Reuben Balls are an excellent choice.
How to Make Crispy Reuben Balls
Making Crispy Reuben Balls is a straightforward process that involves mixing a few key ingredients, shaping them into balls, and frying until golden brown. Here’s how to bring these delightful bites to life.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked corned beef
- 1 cup drained, chopped sauerkraut
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success with Crispy Reuben Balls
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Prep Ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just shape the balls and fry them right before serving for fresh, hot snacks.
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Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the balls can become soggy instead of crispy.
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Batch Frying: Fry the Reuben balls in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This helps in achieving an even, crispy texture.
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Season the Breadcrumbs: Adding a pinch of salt or some dried herbs to the breadcrumbs can enhance the flavor and add an extra layer of taste.
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Use Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover corned beef, making it cost-effective and delicious.
Flavor Variations for Crispy Reuben Balls
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Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist that elevates the flavor profile.
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Herbaceous Notes: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives into the filling for a fresh burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
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Cheese Choices: Replace Swiss cheese with another melting cheese like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor dimension.
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Gluten-Free Option: Switch the breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free alternatives to cater to gluten-sensitive guests.
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Baked Alternative: For a lighter version, consider baking the Reuben balls instead of frying. Coat them in oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Reuben Balls
Crispy Reuben Balls can be served in various ways to make them even more enjoyable. Pair them with a rich dipping sauce like Thousand Island dressing or a creamy horseradish dip for added flavor. These bites also go well with crisp vegetable sticks, pickles, or potato chips as a perfect accompaniment for that traditional Reuben experience. Serve them at parties as finger foods, or enjoy them as a part of a cozy movie night in.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crispy Reuben Balls
If you happen to have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), here’s how you can store them. Allow the Crispy Reuben Balls to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Freeze the uncooked balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once frozen. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|———–|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
FAQ About Crispy Reuben Balls
Can I make Crispy Reuben Balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time. Once mixed, keep it covered in the refrigerator and shape the balls just before frying. You can also freeze formed but uncooked balls, leveraging convenience for future cooking.
Can I bake the Reuben Balls instead of frying them?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, you can bake the balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning. While they may not be as crispy as fried ones, they will still be delicious.
What can I serve with Crispy Reuben Balls?
These balls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with dipping sauces like Thousand Island or ranch dressing. They pair well with pickles, potato chips, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Is there a vegetarian version of Crispy Reuben Balls?
Yes! You can easily create a vegetarian version by using sautéed mushrooms or tempeh in place of the corned beef. Make sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly to keep the flavors vibrant.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftover Crispy Reuben Balls in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to help retain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick meal, but they may lose their crunch.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Reuben Balls are more than just an appetizer; they are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the classic Reuben flavors in a new format. With their crunchy exterior and savory filling, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re indulging in them for game day, a party, or just a cozy night at home, these little bites will not disappoint. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation that everyone will love!
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Crispy Reuben Balls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, these Crispy Reuben Balls combine corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese into bite-sized snacks, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked corned beef
- 1 cup drained, chopped sauerkraut
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just shape and fry them before serving for fresh snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
