Introduction
Looking for a delicious recipe that’s both easy and impressive? This HANKY PANKY BITES is exactly what you need! With its perfect blend of flavors and simple preparation, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Let’s get started on creating this tasty masterpiece!
Hanky Panky Bites (Sausage & Cheese Appetizer)
The ultimate retro party appetizer! These savory sausage, cheese, and spice bites are often called “party rye pizzas” or “sausage rolls.” They’re ridiculously addictive and always disappear first from any spread.
Ingredients
For Classic Version:
· 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or hot, based on preference)
· 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works well)
· 1 lb Velveeta or block processed cheese, cubed
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· 1 tsp dried oregano
· ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
· 1 package party rye bread or small cocktail bread slices
For a “From-Scratch” Cheese Sauce Option:
· 8 oz sharp cheddar, shredded
· 4 oz cream cheese, softened
· 2 tbsp milk or cream
· ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Meat:
· In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage and beef together, breaking into fine crumbles.
· Drain excess fat thoroughly (important for non-greasy bites).
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
· Return meat to skillet. Reduce heat to low.
· Add cubed Velveeta and spices.
· Stir continuously until cheese is fully melted and mixture is homogenous.
· Remove from heat.
- Assemble & Bake:
· Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
· Arrange party rye slices on baking sheets.
· Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of mixture onto each bread slice, spreading slightly.
· Bake 8-12 minutes, until edges of bread are crisp and topping is bubbly.
- Serve:
· Serve warm, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or sliced green onions.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
· Slow Cooker: Combine cooked meat and cheese in slow cooker on LOW until melted. Keep warm for serving.
· Broiler: Assemble on bread and broil 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
· Make-Ahead: Prepare filling, refrigerate up to 2 days, assemble and bake when needed.
Variations:
· Pizza Style: Add ½ cup pepperoni mince + 1 tsp Italian seasoning, top with slice of pepperoni before baking
· Jalapeño Popper: Add ¼ cup chopped pickled jalapeños + 4 oz cream cheese
· Hawaiian: Add ½ cup finely diced ham + ¼ cup drained crushed pineapple
· On Ritz Crackers: Use Ritz or saltines instead of rye for even quicker version
· As a Dip: Thin mixture with a little cream or rotel tomatoes, serve with tortilla chips or breadsticks
Tips for Perfect Hanky Pankies:
· Drain well: Excess fat will make bread soggy
· Fine crumble: Use potato masher or fork to break meat into very small pieces
· Adjust spice: Start with mild sausage if serving to crowd
· Crispy bread: Don’t overcrowd baking sheet so edges crisp up
· Quick assembly: Use a cookie scoop for even portions
Why They’re Called “Hanky Panky”:
The name likely comes from their “naughtily delicious” nature—once you start, you can’t stop eating them! They became a Midwest and party staple in the 1970s.
Perfect for game day, potlucks, holiday parties, or any gathering where you want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing appetizer. They’re hearty, cheesy, savory, and utterly irresistible!
Conclusion
Congratulations on making this delicious HANKY PANKY BITES! We hope you and your loved ones enjoyed every bite of this flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and we’re confident it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
🍽️ Looking for more amazing recipes? Browse through our collection of delicious dishes on YumPost! From quick weeknight dinners to impressive desserts, we have something for every taste and occasion.
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