Crispy Reuben Corned Beef Balls (Printer-Friendly)

Golden crispy bites with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese offering a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Filling

01 - 2 cups cooked corned beef, shredded
02 - 1 cup sauerkraut, thoroughly drained and chopped
03 - 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
04 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Coating

09 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
10 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 2 large eggs, beaten
12 - Oil for frying (neutral, high smoke point)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef, chopped sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until uniformly blended.
02 - Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter using clean hands. Press firmly to ensure they hold together during frying, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
03 - Arrange three shallow dishes: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third, to maintain an organized breading process.
04 - Coat each ball by rolling it first in flour, then dipping in beaten eggs allowing excess to drip off, followed by a gentle roll in breadcrumbs to adhere the coating. Return breaded balls to the baking sheet.
05 - Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat until a breadcrumb sizzles on contact. Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
06 - Transfer the fried balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately warm accompanied by extra Dijon mustard or preferred dipping sauce.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Chilling the filling briefly before breading helps the balls maintain their shape during frying.
02 - Ensure sauerkraut is well drained to keep the filling creamy and prevent sogginess.
03 - Monitor oil temperature carefully; too hot will burn the coating, too cool will make the balls greasy.
04 - These balls freeze well; freeze individually on a tray before storing in airtight containers for up to two months.