Hanky Panky Bites Recipe
Introduction
Hanky Panky Bites are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing appetizer made with a savory blend of seasoned ground meat
and melted cheese spooned onto crisp party rye bread. These little bites are famous for being easy to make,
easy to serve, and impossible to resist. Perfect for game nights, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, they always disappear fast!
Ingredients
For the Hanky Panky Topping
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 lb (450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 lb (450g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 1–2 packages party rye bread (or small cocktail bread squares)
Instructions
- Cook the meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until fully browned. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Add seasonings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Melt the cheese: Lower the heat. Add the Velveeta cubes to the skillet and stir until melted and fully combined with the meat mixture.
- Assemble the bites: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cheesy meat mixture onto each party rye slice.
- Bake: Arrange the topped slices on a baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are crisp and the topping is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. They can also be kept warm in a low-heat oven or reheated later.
Description
Hanky Panky Bites are rich, cheesy, meaty mini-toasts that pack huge flavor in a tiny size. The combination of beef, sausage,
and melty cheese creates a creamy, savory topping that caramelizes slightly in the oven. Sitting on crisp rye squares, each bite
delivers the perfect contrast of textures—crunchy, creamy, and irresistibly hearty.
Tips
- Make ahead: Prepare the meat-and-cheese mixture up to 2 days ahead. Refrigerate and warm gently before assembling.
- Freezer-friendly: Assemble bites on bread, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen for 10–12 minutes.
- Spicy version: Use hot sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Bread substitute: Use baguette slices or mini toast crackers if party rye is unavailable.
- Less greasy: Drain the meat well before adding cheese.
Correction
Enjoy
Serve your Hanky Panky Bites hot and watch them disappear! They’re perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, and snack nights—simple, savory, and always a hit.
