Hanky Panky Bites – Myrecipes1

This is the ultimate retro party appetizer! Hanky Panky Bites (also known as “Hot Sausage Cheese Bites” or simply “Hanky Pankys”) are a beloved Midwest classic that have been gracing holiday tables, game-day spreads, and potlucks for decades.

They are savory, slightly spicy, irresistibly cheesy, and perfectly portioned on little slices of rye bread.

The Story Behind the Name

The origin of the name “Hanky Panky” is a bit murky, but it adds to the charm of this recipe! Some say it’s because they’re so good they’ll make you want to do a little dance. Others think it’s just a fun, catchy name from the 1950s-60s when many “fun” appetizers got playful names. Whatever the reason, the name has stuck because the recipe is unforgettable.

Ingredients

1 lb ground hot sausage
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (12 oz) package party rye or pumpernickel bread (the small, cocktail-sized slices)

Instructions

Part 1: Cook the Meat

Brown the Meats: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, combine the ground hot sausage and ground beef.
Break Up: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat into crumbles as it cooks.
Drain Fat: Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Drain off any excess grease. This is important, or your bites will be greasy.

Part 2: Make the Cheesy Mixture

Reduce Heat: Turn the heat down to low.
Add Cheese: Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet with the hot meat.
Stir Until Melted: Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Season: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, and garlic powder until well combined. Remove from heat.

Part 3: Assemble the Bites

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Arrange Bread: Place the party rye or pumpernickel bread slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. You may need two sheets or to work in batches.
Top with Meat Mixture: Spoon a generous amount of the hot sausage-cheese mixture onto each slice of bread. You want a nice, heaping portion—about 1-2 tablespoons per slice, depending on the size of the bread.

Part 4: Bake

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes.
- Goal: You want the edges of the bread to be slightly crispy and the cheese topping to be bubbly and just starting to brown slightly on top.
Cool Slightly: Let them rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before serving. (The filling is like molten lava straight out of the oven!)

Pro-Tips for Perfect Hanky Panky Bites

Drain the Meat Well: This is the most important step. Too much grease will make the bread soggy. Don’t skip the draining!
Bread Choice:
- Rye: Offers a classic, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
- Pumpernickel: Slightly sweeter and denser, also a fantastic choice.
- Cocktail size is essential—it’s the perfect one-bite portion.
Make Ahead Magic: This is a great make-ahead appetizer.
- Option 1: Assemble the bites completely on the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving (you may need to add 2-3 minutes to the bake time).
- Option 2: Make the meat and cheese mixture, store it in the fridge, and then assemble and bake when ready. Reheat the mixture slightly so it’s easier to spoon.
Freezer Friendly: You can freeze the unbaked, assembled bites on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.
Spice It Up/Down:
- For more heat, use spicy/hot sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For milder bites, use regular breakfast sausage or sweet Italian sausage instead of hot.

Why Everyone Loves Them

Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy, just good, comforting flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Meat + cheese + bread on a tiny slice? It’s universally loved.
Perfect Portion: They’re not too heavy, so people can enjoy a few without filling up before dinner.
Nostalgia: For many, these bring back memories of family gatherings and holiday parties.

Enjoy your Hanky Panky Bites! They’re sure to disappear fast.