Irresistible Crispy Reuben Balls for Game Day Delight

The aroma of melting cheese, savory corned beef, and crunchy sauerkraut wafts through the air as you prepare to indulge in these irresistible crispy Reuben balls for game day. Imagine biting into a golden-brown sphere that bursts with flavor, transporting you straight to your favorite deli while cheering for your team. For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch recipes recipe.

On game day, the excitement builds as friends gather around, eagerly awaiting these crispy delights. The anticipation is palpable, and every bite promises an explosion of taste that will leave everyone clamoring for more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These irresistible crispy Reuben balls are easy to make and perfect for sharing
  • Their mouthwatering flavor profile combines tangy sauerkraut with rich corned beef and melty cheese
  • They look fantastic on any platter, making them a real crowd-pleaser
  • Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or party snacks, they fit perfectly into any game day spread

I still remember the first time I made these Reuben balls; my friends couldn’t get enough! Their laughter and cheers filled the room as they devoured them.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Corned Beef: Use high-quality corned beef for the best flavor; deli slices work great if you’re short on time.
  • Sauerkraut: Drain well before using; it adds that essential tangy kick to balance the richness of the meat.
  • Swiss Cheese: Opt for a good melting Swiss cheese; its creamy texture enhances every bite.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating that will make each ball irresistible.
  • Eggs: A couple of large eggs help bind everything together; ensure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
  • Dijon Mustard: This adds a zesty flavor that elevates the filling; use it generously but taste as you go.
  • Vegetable Oil: For frying, choose a high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil to achieve perfect crispiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start the adventure by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a mixing bowl, frying pan, and a spoon—basic but essential!

Prepare Your Filling: In a large bowl, mix chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, and one egg. Stir until well combined.

Form the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter so they cook evenly.

Dip and Coat: Whisk together another egg in a shallow bowl. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs after dipping them in egg; ensure they’re fully coated for extra crunch.

Heat Your Oil: In a deep skillet over medium heat, add enough vegetable oil to cover about half of each ball when frying. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place several balls in hot oil without crowding them. Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

Drain and Serve!: Transfer fried balls onto paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with extra mustard or thousand island dressing for dipping!

These crispy Reuben balls will become your new game day staple! Not only do they capture all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich in neat little bites, but they’re also surprisingly easy to whip up amidst all the excitement of game day festivities. Plus, let’s face it: who doesn’t love anything that can be dipped? For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner options recipe.

You Must Know

  • The secret to irresistible crispy Reuben balls lies in achieving the perfect balance of crunch and flavor
  • Using high-quality ingredients enhances the taste, while fresh herbs can elevate the aroma
  • These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing, but good luck keeping them around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the filling while preheating your oil to 350°F. Shape the mixture into balls and fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes for that irresistible crispiness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out corned beef for pastrami or adding jalapeños for an unexpected kick. Experimenting with different cheeses can also change up the flavor profile beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Reuben balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; this ensures a crispy exterior
  • Don’t skip chilling the balls before frying—they hold their shape better
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture in every bite

The first time I made these irresistible crispy Reuben balls, my friends devoured them faster than I could plate them. Their laughter and satisfied smiles made every minute spent in the kitchen worth it!

FAQs

FAQ

How can I make these Reuben balls vegetarian?

Use a plant-based meat alternative and add extra veggies to maintain flavor.

Can I freeze these Reuben balls before frying?

Yes, freezing them first helps retain their shape and makes frying easier later.

What dipping sauces pair well with Reuben balls?

Try serving with homemade Russian dressing or a tangy mustard sauce for delightful contrast.

Print
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Crispy Reuben Balls


  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings (24 Reuben balls) 1x

Description

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of crispy Reuben balls, perfect for game day gatherings. These bite-sized treats combine savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, all encased in a crunchy panko coating. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these Reuben balls will have your friends cheering for more!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup corned beef, chopped
  • 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 cup Swiss cheese, diced
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together chopped corned beef, drained sauerkraut, diced Swiss cheese, one egg, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the second egg. Dip each ball into the egg and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  5. Carefully fry the balls in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
  6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with mustard or dressing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 Reuben balls (70g)
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a twist, substitute corned beef with pastrami or add jalapeños for extra heat. Chill the shaped balls for 30 minutes before frying to help maintain their shape. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat at 375°F for crispiness.

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