Hanky Panky Recipe: A Classic Party Favorite

Imagine walking into a party and being greeted by the warm, savory aroma of cheesy, meaty appetizers fresh from the oven. That’s the magic of the Hanky Panky Recipe—a tried-and-true favorite for gatherings, game days, and casual dinners. This dish combines ground beef, spicy pork sausage, and Velveeta cheese to create a rich and flavorful topping that’s served on crispy cocktail rye bread. The result? A bite-sized treat that’s so good, it disappears from the table in minutes!

Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a nostalgic dish to whip up at home, Hanky Panky is simple, satisfying, and downright irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why the Hanky Panky Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Hanky Panky Recipe is more than just an appetizer—it’s a bite-sized piece of comfort food nostalgia. Here’s why this dish is loved by so many:

• Perfect for Entertaining: These hearty little snacks are easy to grab, making them ideal for parties and casual gatherings.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of beef, spicy sausage, and creamy Velveeta cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare this dish in under an hour.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level and toppings to suit your taste.
• Freezer-Friendly: Hanky Panky is easy to make ahead of time and store for later use.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this classic dish.

Ingredients for the Hanky Panky Recipe

Here’s everything you need to prepare this flavorful appetizer:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	1 pound
Hot pork sausage	1 pound
Velveeta cheese, diced	16 ounces
Garlic salt	½ teaspoon
Oregano	1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes	½ teaspoon
Cocktail rye bread	1 loaf

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Hanky Panky Recipe

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. Dice the Velveeta cheese and set it aside so it’s ready to melt. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and hot pork sausage together. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it browns. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, about 7–10 minutes.

3. Drain the Grease

Once the meat is cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step ensures your topping won’t be overly greasy.

4. Add Seasonings

Return the skillet to the stove and reduce the heat to low. Stir in the garlic salt, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the meat.

5. Melt the Cheese

Add the diced Velveeta cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously as the cheese melts and combines with the meat mixture. This will create a rich, creamy topping. Keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from burning.

6. Prepare the Bread

While the cheese is melting, arrange the cocktail rye bread slices on a large baking sheet. You can lightly toast the bread in the oven for 2–3 minutes if desired, but this step is optional.

7. Assemble the Hanky Pankies

Using a spoon, spread a generous amount of the cheesy meat mixture onto each slice of cocktail rye bread. Make sure the topping is evenly distributed.

8. Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Hanky Pankies for 10–12 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the bread is slightly crispy.

9. Serve

Remove the Hanky Pankies from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear as your guests dig in!

Tips for Making the Perfect Hanky Panky

• Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular pork sausage instead of hot sausage and omit the red pepper flakes.
• Use Fresh Bread: Cocktail rye bread works best, but you can substitute with mini slices of French bread or baguette.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the meat and cheese mixture in advance, then assemble and bake the Hanky Pankies just before serving.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze assembled but unbaked Hanky Pankies on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen when needed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped parsley or shredded Parmesan on top for a fresh twist.

Why This Recipe Works

The Hanky Panky Recipe works so well because it combines simple ingredients to create a rich, satisfying flavor. The hot sausage adds spice, the Velveeta provides creaminess, and the rye bread adds a sturdy, crispy base. Together, they create the perfect bite-sized snack that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.

Nutritional Information for Hanky Panky Recipe

Here’s an approximate breakdown per piece (based on 24 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~120
Protein	7g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fat	8g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	280mg

What to Serve with Hanky Panky

Hanky Pankies are a fantastic appetizer on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Veggies: Serve with celery and carrot sticks for a lighter contrast.
• Chips and Salsa: Add a bowl of tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Dipping Sauces: Try ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or honey mustard for dipping.
• Side Salads: Pair with a simple green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Hanky Panky is a great dish for meal prep or parties. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the meat and cheese mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked Hanky Pankies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Assemble the Hanky Pankies and freeze them unbaked. Bake directly from frozen as needed.
• Reheat: Reheat cooked Hanky Pankies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs About Hanky Panky Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Mini slices of baguette or French bread work well as substitutes for cocktail rye bread.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free bread and check that your seasonings and Velveeta are gluten-free.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
While Velveeta melts beautifully, you can use a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack for a similar texture.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and ground meat alternatives.

5. Can I add other toppings?
Of course! Try diced jalapeños, green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added flavor.

6. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Lightly toasting the bread before adding the topping helps keep it crispy.

Your Turn to Make Hanky Panky

Now that you know how to make this classic Hanky Panky Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. Whether you’re serving it for a party, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a plate of these cheesy, meaty delights that will have everyone asking for the recipe!