Hanky Panky appetizers are a delightful throwback to classic party snacks that are sure to impress your guests. These cheesy, meaty bites are made with sausage, ground beef, and Velveeta, all piled on cocktail rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible, creating a comforting dish perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a game day, or simply a friendly get-together, these savory bites are a must-have!
Why You’ll Love This Hanky Panky
There’s so much to love about Hanky Panky appetizers! First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings. Second, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, allowing for quick reheating. Third, their cheesy goodness evokes fond memories of playful behavior and fun and games from days gone by. Plus, they’re a great conversation starter, sparking shenanigans and lighthearted antics among guests. The savory flavors will satisfy anyone’s cravings, and their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling. This recipe is a classic American dish with a delightful twist on traditional party food!
Ingredients for Hanky Panky
Gather these items:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cocktail rye bread slices
- Ingredient Tips:
- Swap Velveeta for cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper flavor.
- Use ground turkey for a lean variation.
- Substitute rye bread with sourdough rounds or mini pita.
How to Make Hanky Panky Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Step 2: Cook sausage and ground beef together in a skillet until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Step 4: Add cubed Velveeta and stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Step 5: Spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto cocktail rye bread slices.
- Step 6: Arrange on baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes until bubbly and crisp.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hanky Panky
Keep these in mind:
- These appetizers are quick and freezer-friendly, making them ideal for impromptu gatherings.
- They are perfect for holidays, football parties, potlucks, and game day spreads.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or diced onions to the meat mixture.
Best Ways to Serve Hanky Panky
When serving Hanky Panky appetizers, consider pairing them with a variety of dips like spicy mustard or creamy ranch. They can also be enjoyed alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. For a themed night, host a retro party where you serve these alongside other classic snacks, sparking playful behavior and nostalgic memories among friends.
How to Store and Reheat Hanky Panky
To store any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them before baking them for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep and enjoying later!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanky Panky
What’s the secret to perfect Hanky Panky?
The secret to perfect Hanky Panky lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of ingredients used. Using high-quality sausage and cheese ensures a rich, savory base. Additionally, don’t overcook the meat, as it can dry out the mixture.
Can I make Hanky Panky ahead of time?
Absolutely! Hanky Panky can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve. This makes them ideal for busy days or unexpected guests!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hanky Panky?
To avoid common mistakes, make sure to drain excess fat from the meat mixture to prevent soggy bread. Also, ensure that the cheese is fully melted and well combined for a smooth texture. Timing is key; avoid overbaking to keep the bread crisp without burning.
Variations of Hanky Panky You Can Try
There are many fun ways to customize Hanky Panky appetizers! Consider adding different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also mix in veggies like chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and texture. For a unique twist, substitute the meat with vegetarian sausage for a delicious meat-free option!
Hanky Panky: 7 Cheesy Bites for Fun and Shenanigans
These classic Hanky Panky Appetizers are cheesy, meaty party bites made with sausage, ground beef, and Velveeta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cocktail rye bread slices
- Ingredient Tips:
- Swap Velveeta for cheddar or pepper jack for a sharper flavor.
- Use ground turkey for a lean variation.
- Substitute rye bread with sourdough rounds or mini pita.
Instructions
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Cook sausage and ground beef together in a skillet until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add cubed Velveeta and stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto cocktail rye bread slices.
- Arrange on baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes until bubbly and crisp.
Notes
- These appetizers are quick and freezer-friendly.
- They are perfect for holidays, football parties, potlucks, and game day spreads.
- They are often the first appetizer to disappear.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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