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The Ultimate Classic Hanky Panky Appetizer Recipe: Nostalgic, Cheesy, and Party-Perfect

Close-up of cheesy, baked Hanky Panky recipe topping served on toasted baguette slices.
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Make this classic Hanky Panky recipe, a nostalgic party snack loaded with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and served on toasted bread. This easy finger food is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for game days or holidays.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage or ground beef
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package pumpernickel or rye bread slices (about 24 slices)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage or ground beef until fully browned. Drain off all the grease completely.
  3. Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Add the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to the meat. Stir constantly until all the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is your cheesy meat filling.
  5. Place the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Spoon an equal amount of the cheesy meat mixture onto the center of each bread slice. Spread the mixture evenly to cover the bread surface.
  7. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the bread are lightly toasted and the topping is hot and bubbly.
  8. Serve these hot, cheesy meat bites immediately as a perfect party snack.

Notes

  • For a slightly different flavor, substitute half the sausage with ground ham.
  • You can use small cocktail rye bread for smaller appetizers, adjusting the topping amount per slice.
  • If you do not have pumpernickel bread, use firm white bread or even sturdy crackers, but watch the baking time closely so they do not burn.
  • Prepare the meat and cheese mixture ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before spreading on the bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/hanky-panky-recipe-classic-cheesy-meat-bites/