Name: The Best Hanky Panky Bites – A Classic Party Appetizer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground pork sausage (spicy or mild); 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 loaf cocktail rye bread

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If you’ve never had Hanky Panky Bites, you’re in for a treat! These little bites are the ultimate retro party snack—savory, cheesy, and packed with flavor. A mixture of spicy sausage, melty cheese, and seasonings is piled onto cocktail rye bread and baked until bubbly. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just need an easy appetizer, these are always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Quick and easy – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and they bake up fast.
Crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves these flavorful little bites!
Make-ahead friendly – You can prep them in advance and freeze for later.
Perfect balance of flavors – Savory sausage, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need. The full ingredient list is below!

Ground pork sausage – Spicy or mild, depending on your preference.
Velveeta cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy topping.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds a deep umami flavor.
Garlic powder – A little extra flavor boost.
Cocktail rye bread – The perfect base for these bite-sized snacks.

Step-by-Step Directions

Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the Velveeta cheese to the pan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and combined with the sausage. Add Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Assemble the Bites

Arrange the cocktail rye slices on a baking sheet. Spoon the sausage mixture onto each slice, spreading it evenly.

Bake Until Bubbly

Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm and watch them disappear in minutes!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use a mix of cheeses – Try adding shredded cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Make them spicy – Use hot sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Freeze for later – Assemble, freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a bag. Bake straight from frozen when ready!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Use ground beef – If you don’t have sausage, ground beef works too!
Swap the bread – Use baguette slices or even tortilla chips for a twist.
Add mushrooms or onions – Sautéed mushrooms or onions mix in beautifully for extra depth.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Perfect for game day – These make the best finger food for any party.
Pair with a dip – Serve alongside ranch or a spicy mustard dip.
Make it a meal – Pair with a side salad or soup for a fun dinner idea.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer – Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.
Reheat – Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them and freeze, then bake when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have cocktail rye bread?

You can use any small bread slices, like French baguette or even crackers.

Can I use real cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes! Shredded cheddar and a little cream cheese work well.

How do I keep them warm for a party?

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

Conclusion

Hanky Panky Bites are a nostalgic, no-fail appetizer that’s always a hit at parties. With their cheesy, savory goodness, they’ll disappear in no time! Whether you make them ahead or serve them fresh, these little bites will become a go-to for every gathering. Try them out and let me know what you think!

The Best Hanky Panky Bites – A Classic Party Appetizer

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Hanky Panky Bites are the ultimate retro party snack—savory, cheesy, and packed with flavor. A mixture of spicy sausage, melty cheese, and seasonings is piled onto cocktail rye bread and baked until bubbly. These little bites are quick, easy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 24–28 bites 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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1 lb ground pork sausage (spicy or mild)
16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 loaf cocktail rye bread

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Instructions

Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the Velveeta cheese. Stir until fully melted and combined with the sausage. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder.
Assemble the Bites: Arrange cocktail rye slices on a baking sheet. Spoon the sausage mixture onto each slice, spreading evenly.
Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Notes

For extra spice, use hot sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
You can freeze assembled bites before baking. Bake directly from frozen for easy prep.
Substitute shredded cheddar and cream cheese if you prefer real cheese over Velveeta.