Hanky Panky (Hors D'Oeuvres)
Hanky Panky offers savory, cheesy bites with a spicy sausage and ground beef filling, perfect for parties or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer on cocktail rye bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry together the sausage and ground beef until cooked through.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add Velveeta cheese, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the meat.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Spread the meat and cheese mixture onto cocktail rye bread slices.
- Freeze the assembled hors d'oeuvres on cookie sheets, then transfer to plastic bags for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of breakfast sausage. You can also swap out Velveeta for a cream cheese blend if you prefer a richer flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can replace oregano for a different twist. Make sure to drain the meat mixture thoroughly to avoid soggy bread, ensuring a crisp bite with each hors d'oeuvre.
Serving Suggestions
These Hanky Panky hors d'oeuvres are perfect for parties and can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce like spicy mustard or a classic cocktail sauce for extra flavor. They also complement well with a simple green salad or a platter of fresh veggies. For more delightful party bites, consider browsing more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the assembled hors d'oeuvres in airtight plastic bags, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hanky Panky (Hors D'Oeuvres) contains roughly 72 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 10g 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 Hanky Panky ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and cheese mixture and spread it on the rye bread ahead of time. Assemble and freeze them as directed. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven for a quick and easy appetizer that tastes freshly made.
What can I substitute for the cocktail rye bread?
If you can't find cocktail rye bread, you can use mini pumpernickel bread, toasted baguette slices, or even tortilla chips as a base. These alternatives will still hold the flavorful meat and cheese mixture well and provide a delicious bite.
How do I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
To serve a larger group, easily double the ingredients without altering the cooking process. Use larger cookie sheets for freezing and ensure you have ample space in your freezer. You can also create a variety of toppings or spice levels to cater to different tastes.
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).