Name: Hanky Panky Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 ounces ground beef (crumbled); 16 ounces chicken sausage (crumbled); 16 ounces processed cheese (like Velveeta, cubed); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 2 loaves party cocktail rye bread; Fresh Italian Parsley (chopped, garnish)

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The Hanky Panky Recipe is your go-to appetizer for any gathering, bringing a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will impress your guests. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Its cheesy goodness combined with hearty meat makes it a standout choice that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This Hanky Panky Recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a hassle-free option for busy hosts.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its savory flavor and cheesy topping, it’s sure to satisfy a variety of palates.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer or snack; it fits perfectly into any occasion.
Minimal Ingredients: Utilizing just a handful of common items means you can whip this up without a lengthy grocery list.
Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare the mixture in advance and bake right before serving for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Skillet
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Spatula
Knife

Why These Tools Matter

Skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly and quickly, creating the perfect base for your mixture.
Baking Sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking the Hanky Panky bites to perfection while ensuring even heat distribution.
Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

A super easy and tasty appetizer, this Hanky Panky Recipe uses minimal but tasty ingredients – perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:
– 24 ounces ground beef (crumbled)
– 16 ounces chicken sausage (crumbled)
– 16 ounces processed cheese (like Velveeta, cubed)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic salt
– 2 loaves party cocktail rye bread
– Fresh Italian Parsley (chopped, garnish)

How to Make Hanky Panky Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add 24 ounces of ground beef and 16 ounces of crumbled chicken sausage.
2. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to medium:
1. Add 16 ounces of cubed processed cheese to the skillet.
2. Stir continuously until melted and well combined with the meat.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add flavor by incorporating:
1. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce,
2. 1 teaspoon oregano,
3. 1 teaspoon onion powder,
4. 1 teaspoon garlic salt.

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Bread

On the prepared baking sheet:
1. Lay out slices of party cocktail rye bread.
2. Evenly spread the meat and cheese mixture over each slice.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place in your preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the bread edges are slightly crispy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked:
1. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve warm on a platter, ready for guests to enjoy!

How to Serve Hanky Panky Recipe

The Hanky Panky Recipe is a delightful appetizer that is perfect for gatherings. Its cheesy and savory flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish!

Pair with Dips

Spicy Mustard: A tangy kick that complements the richness of the Hanky Panky.
Creamy Ranch: Offers a cool contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Add Fresh Vegetables

Carrot Sticks: Crunchy and sweet, they provide a refreshing balance to the savory flavors.
Celery Sticks: Their crisp texture adds a nice crunch alongside the warm appetizers.

Serve with Pickles

Dill Pickles: Their tartness enhances the overall taste, providing a great contrast to the rich meat and cheese.
Sweet Gherkins: For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, these mini pickles are perfect.

Create a Charcuterie Board

Cheeses: Pair your Hanky Panky with different types of cheeses for variety.
Cured Meats: Include turkey or chicken slices to complement the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Hanky Panky Recipe

To make your Hanky Panky Recipe even better, consider these helpful tips:

Bold Seasoning: Adjust spices according to your taste preference for a personalized flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for enhanced aroma and taste.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for unique flavors.
Baking Time Adjustment: Keep an eye on baking times; ovens vary, and you want that perfect bubbly cheese.
Make-ahead Option: Prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Garnish Smartly: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Hanky Panky Recipe

Pair your Hanky Panky with these side dishes to create a complete meal experience. They will complement the flavors perfectly.

Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to balance out the richness.
Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they make a hearty side that everyone loves.
Fruit Skewers: Colorful and sweet, these can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory appetizer.
Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw offers crunch and tanginess that pairs well with savory dishes.
Deviled Eggs: Creamy and flavorful, they are classic finger food that complements any gathering spread.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights filled with cheese and herbs can enhance the appetizer experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Hanky Panky Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

Skipping browning the meat: Properly browning the ground beef and chicken sausage enhances flavor. Ensure the meat is fully cooked and browned before adding cheese.
Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with processed cheese like Velveeta for a smooth, creamy texture.
Overloading the bread: Too much filling can make the bites messy. Use a balanced amount of meat and cheese on each slice of bread for easy eating.
Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure that your Hanky Panky turns out perfectly crispy.
Ignoring garnishing: Skipping fresh herbs like parsley removes a burst of freshness. Don’t forget to garnish for added flavor and visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hanky Panky Recipe

Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hanky Panky Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hanky Panky Recipe?

The Hanky Panky Recipe is an easy-to-make appetizer featuring ground beef and chicken sausage mixed with melted cheese, served on rye bread.

Can I customize my Hanky Panky Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spices, switch up the meats, or try different types of bread for unique flavors.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using leaner meats or reducing cheese quantities. Adding veggies can also boost nutrition.

How many servings does this Hanky Panky Recipe yield?

This recipe yields approximately 72 servings, making it perfect for large gatherings or parties.

Conclusion

The Hanky Panky Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various meats or toppings based on your preference. Give it a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!