Hanky Panky Appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hanky Panky Appetizers are a retro party favorite featuring a savory mix of ground beef, sausage, and melty cheese on mini rye bread slices. Known for their bold, meaty flavor and easy preparation, these bite-sized toasts are perfect for game days, holidays, or casual gatherings. Warm, hearty, and nostalgic—they disappear fast from any appetizer tray.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
ground pork sausage (mild or spicy)
Velveeta cheese (cubed)
Worcestershire sauce
garlic powder
onion powder
red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
salt and black pepper
party rye bread (mini rye cocktail slices)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage together over medium heat. Drain excess grease.

Reduce heat to low and add Velveeta cheese cubes to the meat mixture, stirring until completely melted.

Mix in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Arrange mini rye slices on a baking sheet.

Spoon the cheesy meat mixture onto each slice.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until hot and slightly crispy on the edges.

Serve warm straight from the oven.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24–30 appetizers.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use sharp cheddar or a cheese blend instead of Velveeta.
Add chopped jalapeños for extra spice.
Swap party rye for baguette slices or pita chips.
Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freeze assembled, unbaked appetizers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead?

Yes—assemble and refrigerate or freeze, then bake just before serving.

Is Velveeta necessary?

It’s traditional for its meltability, but other cheeses work if preferred.

Can I make this less spicy?

Use mild sausage and omit red pepper flakes.

What bread is best?

Party rye is classic, but mini pumpernickel or cocktail bread also work well.

Can I serve these at room temperature?

They’re best hot, but can sit out briefly at room temp for serving.

Can I cook these in a toaster oven?

Yes, just reduce the batch size and adjust baking time as needed.

What can I substitute for sausage?

Ground turkey or more beef can be used, though sausage adds key flavor.

How do I keep them warm for a party?

Place them on a warming tray or in a low-heat oven (200°F) until serving.

Are they gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free bread and confirm all ingredients are safe.

Do kids like these?

Yes—cheesy, savory flavors are usually a hit, just moderate the spice.

Conclusion

Hanky Panky Appetizers are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing classic that delivers rich, cheesy, and savory bites every time. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy make-ahead snack, these toasts are sure to be a hit. Serve them hot and watch them disappear in minutes.

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