Description
Hanky Panky Appetizers are a retro party favorite made with a rich, cheesy sausage and beef mixture on top of toasted cocktail rye bread. These bite-sized treats are perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 (16 oz) package Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 loaf cocktail rye bread (or party pumpernickel bread)
Instructions
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Cook the meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Drain excess grease.
-
Season & melt the cheese:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded cheddar (if using), stirring until melted and smooth.
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Assemble the appetizers:
- Arrange cocktail rye bread slices on a baking sheet.
- Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the meat mixture onto each slice.
-
Bake or broil:
- Baking method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10 minutes, until the bread is slightly crispy.
- Broiling method: Broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching closely until bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve & enjoy:
- Serve warm as a delicious party snack!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Reheat before assembling and baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the appetizers, place on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Spicy Version: Use hot sausage and add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Substitutes: Swap Velveeta for cream cheese + shredded cheddar for a different texture.