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Classic Hanky Panky Recipe: Easy Cheesy Sausage Appetizers

Close-up of a slice of toasted bread topped with savory meat mixture and melted cheese, ready to serve for the hanky panky recipe.
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Make this classic Hanky Panky recipe, a retro party food favorite. These easy party appetizers feature sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar baked on rye bread, perfect for game days or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage or ground beef
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 loaf (about 16 slices) rye or pumpernickel bread, sliced about 1/2 inch thick

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage or ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain off all the grease completely.
  3. Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Add the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the meat.
  5. Stir the mixture constantly until all the cheese is melted and the ingredients are fully combined into a creamy spread.
  6. Spread a generous layer of the meat and cheese mixture evenly over each slice of rye or pumpernickel bread.
  7. Place the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the topping is hot and bubbly and the edges of the bread are lightly toasted.
  9. Serve these savory bites warm immediately.

Notes

  • For a slightly different texture, you can use sturdy crackers instead of bread slices. Reduce the baking time slightly if using crackers.
  • If you are making these ahead of time, assemble them on the bread but do not bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • This recipe is a favorite for potlucks and game day snacks because it holds up well when kept warm in a slow cooker on the low setting.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://rosatasty.com/hanky-panky-recipe-easy-cheesy-sausage-bites/