Great Snack
A cheesy, savory snack featuring seasoned hamburger and Italian sausage mixed with melted Velveeta, onions, and served on rye bread for a warm, satisfying appetizer or party treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the hamburger until browned, then drain excess fat and place in a mixing bowl.
- Cook the Italian sausage until browned, then drain excess fat and add to the bowl with the hamburger.
- Cut the Velveeta cheese into pieces.
- Add the Velveeta cheese to the meat mixture.
- Cut the onions and add them to the mixture.
- Microwave the mixture until the cheese melts.
- Spoon the mixture onto slices of rye party bread and bake until the top is crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, replace the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken. You can also substitute Velveeta with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a different texture and taste. Adjust the onions to your liking, or even try caramelizing them for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the cheesy mixture generously over rye party bread and serve immediately for best results. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Hot Romaine Potato Salad or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For an appetizer spread, serve with pickles and olives to complement the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mixture in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can re-bake them in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, which will help maintain the crispiness of the bread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Snack contains roughly 488 calories, with 28g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and assemble it on the rye bread just before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any drying out.
What can I use instead of rye party bread?
If rye party bread isn't available, you can substitute with sliced baguette, pita chips, or even tortilla chips for a different texture. Each option will provide a unique twist to this recipe while still delivering the delicious cheesy filling.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the meat mixture before adding it to the bread. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then assemble and bake as directed. This is a great way to have a quick snack on hand!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).