Hanky Panks
Hanky Panks are savory party spreads combining seasoned ground meat, melted Velveeta, and sausage, perfect for spreading on rye breads at gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground meat and drain excess fat.
- Add Velveeta cheese, oregano, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to the cooked meat.
- Cook until the sausage is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
- Spread the mixture onto the little rye breads.
- Broil until the spread starts to brown and bubble.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based sausage. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
These Hanky Panks are perfect for parties or game day. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch dressing. They also pair beautifully with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light salad or some roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the Hanky Panks on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hanky Panks contains roughly 349 calories, with 14g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (173% of the Daily Value), and calcium (147% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% 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 Hanky Panks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, spread it on the rye bread and broil until bubbly.
What type of ground meat is best for this recipe?
Ground beef is traditional, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just ensure it is fully cooked before mixing in the cheese and seasonings.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Velveeta provides a creamy texture and easy melting, you can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep in mind that the consistency may vary slightly.
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).