Hanky Panky
Hanky Panky is a delightful and savory appetizer featuring a rich blend of sausage and ground beef, melted Velveeta cheese, and a hint of Worcestershire sauce and spices. Perfect for parties or game days, these tasty bites served on rye bread are sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown both meats in a skillet; drain.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese and stir until melted.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic salt, and Tabasco; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Spoon mixture onto rye bread slices.
- Place on a cookie sheet and freeze.
- Transfer to Ziploc bags for storage.
- Remove from freezer and heat in the oven at 425° until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding sautéed onions and peppers to the mix. You can substitute the Velveeta with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a richer taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, much like other American recipes that involve hearty, shareable bites.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hanky Panky bites as an appetizer at your next party or game day gathering. They pair beautifully with a side of pickles or a fresh salad. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or barbecue, to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a bowl of Maryland Crab Soup or a hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Stew.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the Hanky Panky bites to cool completely before placing them in airtight containers or Ziploc bags. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 425° for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hanky Panky contains roughly 163 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value), and calcium (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 24g 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 mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling on the rye bread. Just be sure to cook the mixture thoroughly before storing. Alternatively, you can assemble and freeze them, then bake them directly from frozen when needed.
What can I serve with Hanky Panky?
Hanky Panky bites are great on their own, but you can enhance your spread with sides such as chips, a veggie platter, or even a fruit salad. For a heartier option, consider serving them with stuffed peppers or a classic American side dish like coleslaw.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While traditional Hanky Panky uses meat, you can create a vegetarian version by using plant-based sausage and ground meat alternatives. Make sure to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavors of the substitutes, and you can still enjoy the same cheesy goodness with Velveeta or a vegan cheese alternative.
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).