Hankie-Pankies
Hankie-Pankies are savory, cheesy appetizers with a spicy sausage and hamburger filling, melted cheese, and toasted rye bread, perfect for parties and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage and hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Cube the Velveeta cheese and mix it with the cooked meats until melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder and oregano to the mixture and stir well.
- Spread the cheesy meat mixture onto cocktail rye bread slices.
- Place the bread slices under the broiler until the bread is toasted and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve the Hankie-Pankies warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using a spicy Italian sausage instead of hot sausage. You can also substitute the Velveeta with cream cheese for a richer texture. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked sausage can speed up the process. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add diced bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Hankie-Pankies make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game days. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or some crunchy vegetables for a well-rounded snack. They pair beautifully with American recipes like French Onion Pork Chops for a hearty meal. Consider offering a selection of dipping sauces for added flavor variety.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the Hankie-Pankies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them under the broiler again for a few minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but broiling helps maintain the crispy texture of the bread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hankie-Pankies contains roughly 829 calories, with 53g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (209% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 58g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 Hankie-Pankies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and spread it on the bread slices ahead of time. Just keep them refrigerated and pop them under the broiler right before serving. This makes them perfect for parties where you want to minimize last-minute cooking.
Can I freeze Hankie-Pankies?
Freezing is not recommended for assembled Hankie-Pankies as the bread may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze the meat mixture in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before spreading on fresh bread and broiling.
What can I serve with Hankie-Pankies?
Consider pairing Hankie-Pankies with a light salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. They also work well with dips like guacamole or salsa, adding a fun twist. For a hearty side, try serving them with Bean Goulash for a satisfying feast.
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).