Hanky Panky (Easy Recipe)

I know this “sinful” hanky panky recipe has a naughty name, but this is one delicious appetizer no one can possibly resist!

Ground beef, sausage, and cheese combine to make the ultimate topping in this dish. Then, it's smothered over toasted cocktail rye bread slices for the perfect party food. Mmm! I made this for a party last weekend, and people begged me for the recipe.

If you've never tried hanky panky before, get ready to be addicted! It's the ideal finger food.

What Is Hanky Panky?

Also known as “Polish Mistakes” and “Polish Disasters,” this old-fashioned appetizer recipe has been around since the 1970s. My grandma used to make it all the time, so I grew up on it!

A tasty mixture of ground beef, spicy sausage, and melted Velveeta cheese gets spread on cocktail rye bread and baked to perfection.

It's kind of like a cross between cheesy toast and a mini open-faced sandwich! You can have it ready in about 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love This Hanky Panky 

Budget-Friendly: This great recipe uses simple ingredients like ground meat and Velveeta, so it's easy on your wallet!

Party Pleaser: This hanky panky appetizer is a regular staple in my party rotation. I love making it for game days, holidays, and more!

Versatile: You can make hanky panky on party rye bread or serve it as a hot dip with tortilla chips. Sometimes, I even use it as a sandwich filling.

Quick and Easy: With about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, this old-fashioned appetizer is so easy to throw together.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef: Hamburger meat provides a hearty base and rich flavor. I always use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor.
  
• Ground Hot Pork Sausage: Hot sausage adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor. If you aren't a fan of heat, go ahead and use a mild sausage.
  
• Onion: Creates a savory foundation and adds natural sweetness when cooked.
  
• Velveeta Cheese: This processed cheese creates a creamy, smooth texture to bind the spread together.
  
• Cayenne Pepper: For an additional layer of heat. I always add extra since I like things spicy!
  
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For extra heat and a slight texture contrast to the creamy cheese mixture.
  
• Worcestershire Sauce: Don't skip it! Worcestershire brings tanginess and more savory flavor.
  
• Sliced Party Rye Bread: It's the perfect vessel for the meat and cheese mixture. For a different flavor, try pumpernickel!

How To Make Hanky Panky 

This classic recipe is the ultimate party-pleaser and is a perfect appetizer! Plus, you'll love how easy it is to make. Just follow my simple steps.

1. COMBINE INGREDIENTS. In a large skillet, combine the ground beef, hot pork sausage, and onions.

2. COOK MEAT. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the meat is no longer pink, for around 5 minutes.

3. DRAIN GREASE. Drain off the excess grease so the mixture doesn't make the bread soggy.

4. SEASON & REDUCE. Reduce the heat to low and add the seasonings and Worcestershire sauce.

5. ADD CHEESE. Next, add the processed cheese in small small cubes so they melt quicker.

6. STIR to MELT. Give the mixture a good stir until the cheese completely melts into the meat. 

7. SPREAD & TOP. Place the rye party bread slices onto a baking sheet. Top them with a dollop of meat and Velveeta cheese mixture, and place in the oven.

8. BAKE SLICES. Bake the bread slices in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re nicely toasted, and the cheese starts to bubble. I start checking them around the 10-minute mark.

9. SERVE & ENJOY. Remove the baking sheet from the oven, serve warm, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Hanky Panky

Just wait until you make this hanky panky recipe. Trust me, it'll be a huge show-stopper at your next gathering. Follow my easy tips and tricks to make it even more irresistible!

• Select your spiciness. If you can’t take the heat, substitute hot sausage for mild ground sausage. I love spice, so I always add extra crushed red pepper flakes on top. You can also use sweet Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
  
• Be super cheesy. For an extra cheesy spread, toss some cheddar cheese into the mix. You can also add a slice of Velveeta cheese or American cheese on top if you're feeling it!
  
• Boost the flavor. For more flavor, add another dash of Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, garlic salt, or a dash of hot sauce. Let your imagination run wild. Add green onions for a pop of color.
  
• Pick your protein. Feel free to use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner option. Sometimes, I use chicken sausage instead of pork. Only have turkey sausage on hand? No problem! It works just as well.
  
• Use the right tools. I use a cookie scoop to scoop and drop the filling onto the bread. This is especially handy if you're feeding a crowd. Also, be sure to line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup!

How to Serve Hanky Panky 

The traditional way to enjoy hanky panky is to serve warm on toasted rye or pumpernickel bread, but the possibilities are endless!

I use the meat and cheese mixture to fill sandwiches and flour tortillas for a delicious meal. Sometimes, I even use it to top nachos or a baked potato! It works well as a dip with tortilla chips as well.

How To Store

If you have leftovers of this classic recipe, you'll want to keep them fresh so you can nibble on them throughout the week! Here are my best tips for storage.

To Store: Store assembled but unbaked hanky panky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store cooked leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To Freeze: Arrange assembled but unbaked hanky panky on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the original baking time.

To Reheat: Place leftover hanky panky on a cookie sheet. Heat in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes. For smaller portions, reheat in a toaster oven at 350 degrees for 5-8 minutes.

More Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love

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Seven-Layer Taco Dip

Velveeta Sausage Dip

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