Hanky Panky Bites: Cheesy Spiced Meat on Toasted Rye Recipe

Introduction

Hanky Panky is a deliciously rich and savory appetizer combining seasoned ground beef, spicy sausage, and creamy melted cheese atop crisp rye bread. Perfect for parties or game day, this easy-to-make treat is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ pounds ground beef
• 1 pound hot pork sausage (such as Jimmy Dean’s)
• 1 pound processed cheese (Velveeta recommended)
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 pinch fennel seeds
• 1 loaf thinly sliced party rye bread (cocktail rye bread)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and sausage. Stir and cook until browned, using a potato masher or fork to break up any large clumps.
3. Step 3: Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture once browned.
4. Step 4: Add oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 5: Cut the processed cheese into cubes and stir them into the meat mixture until melted and well combined. Remove from heat.
6. Step 6: Using a small ice cream scoop (about 1¼ inches in diameter) or tablespoon, place a dollop of the meat and cheese mixture onto each slice of party rye bread.
7. Step 7: Arrange the topped bread slices on a cookie sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling.
8. Step 8: Serve the Hanky Pankies warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• For a twist, turn this into a Hanky Panky Dip by adding a can of Rotel and cooking everything in a slow cooker until melted. Serve with sturdy chips like Frito scoops.
• If you prefer, substitute processed cheese with meltable cheeses such as Fontina or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Always drain excess fat after cooking the meat to keep the mixture from becoming greasy.
• The mixture should be creamy but not runny to ensure it spreads well on bread without sogginess.
• If your Hanky Pankies cool and the cheese solidifies, simply reheat in the oven a few minutes before serving.

Storage

Store leftover Hanky Pankies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to restore crispness and melt the cheese before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for Hanky Panky?

While party rye bread is traditional and provides a nice sturdy base, you can experiment with other thinly sliced breads like French bread or sandwich bread. Just ensure the bread can hold the topping without becoming soggy.

Is it necessary to use processed cheese?

Processed cheese like Velveeta melts smoothly and gives the creamy texture that defines this dish. However, you can use other melty cheeses such as Fontina or Monterey Jack if you prefer a different taste or more natural cheese options.

Hanky Panky Bites: Cheesy Spiced Meat on Toasted Rye Recipe

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4.4 from 76 reviews

Hanky Panky is a savory appetizer featuring a hearty blend of ground beef, spicy sausage, and creamy processed cheese served on thinly sliced rye bread. This warm, cheesy bite combines bold flavors with a satisfying texture, perfect for parties or gatherings.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 30–40 appetizers depending on bread slice size 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Mixture

• 1 ¼ pounds ground beef
• 1 pound hot pork sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean’s)
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 pinch fennel seeds

Cheese

• 1 pound processed cheese (such as Velveeta), cut into cubes

Bread

• 1 loaf thinly sliced party rye bread (cocktail rye bread)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400° F to prepare for baking the assembled appetizers.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef and hot pork sausage. Stir and cook until the meat is browned, breaking up large chunks with a potato masher or fork for even cooking.
3. Drain Fat and Season: Once browned, drain excess fat from the skillet. Then add ground oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds. Reduce heat to low and let it cook gently for 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in the cubed processed cheese until it melts completely and incorporates into a creamy mixture. Remove the skillet from heat once the cheese is thoroughly blended.
5. Assemble on Bread: Using a small ice cream scoop (about 1¼ inch diameter) or tablespoon, place a dollop of the meat and cheese mixture onto each slice of party rye bread.
6. Bake: Arrange the topped rye bread slices on a cookie sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling and hot.
7. Serve: Serve the Hanky Panky appetizers warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• You can turn this recipe into a Hanky Panky Dip by adding a can of Rotel and cooking everything in a crockpot or slow cooker until the cheese melts; serve with sturdy chips like Frito scoops.
• Processed cheese like Velveeta is recommended for its meltability; alternatively, cheeses such as Fontina or Monterey Jack can be used.
• Drain excess fat after cooking the meat mixture to avoid greasiness in the final dish.
• The mixture should be creamy and spreadable but not runny to prevent soggy bread.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven to restore warmth and melt the cheese if it solidifies.

Keywords: Hanky Panky recipe, party appetizer, ground beef appetizer, spicy sausage cheese bites, rye bread appetizer