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Hanky Panky Recipe

Hanky Panky Recipe

The Hanky Panky Recipe is a retro party appetizer made with ground beef, sausage, melted cheese, and rye bread. Cheesy, savory, and bite-sized, it’s the perfect make-ahead snack for holidays, family gatherings, or game-day spreads.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Midwestern
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef lean, 85/15 or better
  • 1 lb spicy pork sausage or mild, if preferred
  • 1 lb Velveeta cheese cubed or ¾ Velveeta + ¼ cream cheese
  • 1 package cocktail rye bread
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for spice
  • ¼ tsp black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Baking sheet
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 Sharp knife (for cubing cheese)
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Brown the Meats: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and sausage together until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Melt the Cheese: Add cubed Velveeta (or blend with cream cheese) into the skillet. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
  3. Season the Mixture: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Mix well.
  4. Prepare the Bread: Arrange cocktail rye slices on a baking sheet. Spoon the meat and cheese mixture onto each slice.
  5. Bake : Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until bubbly and edges of bread are crisp.
  6. Serve Hot: Remove from oven and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Make the meat-cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Spread on bread and bake before serving.
  • Swap sausage for turkey sausage or leaner options to lighten the dish.
  • Pair with Apple Chickpea Salad or Pureed Vegetable Soup Recipe for balance.
Hanky Panky Recipe
Hanky Panky Recipe