Bold, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, Hanky Panky Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing party snack with retro flair and modern comfort. Perfect for game days or cozy gatherings.
These warm, melty morsels combine spicy sausage, rich beef, and velvety cheese on bite-sized rye bread, delivering big flavor in every bite. Simple to prepare and even easier to devour.
Bite-Sized Brilliance: What Makes Hanky Panky Bites So Good
- Ground hot sausage – Adds bold, spicy flavor that wakes up the palate and balances the creamy richness of the cheese.
- Ground beef (80% lean) – Brings hearty, meaty depth and texture that anchors the cheesy filling.
- Velveeta cheese – The creamy, melty binder that envelops everything in smooth, savory indulgence.
- Worcestershire sauce – Lends a hint of tang and umami that elevates the entire bite.
- Oregano – Herbal, slightly peppery notes add warmth and depth.
- Garlic powder – Infuses the filling with mellow, savory intensity.
- Party rye or pumpernickel bread – Miniature slices provide a toasty, flavorful base with a slight tang and chew.
From Skillet to Serving Tray: Making Hanky Panky Bites
Begin by browning the sausage and beef together until deeply cooked and fragrant. Drain off the excess fat, then stir in the seasonings, Worcestershire, and Velveeta over low heat until melted and smooth.
Arrange the rye bread slices on a baking sheet and top each with a generous dollop of the warm, cheesy mixture. Bake until bubbling and golden, then serve hot and melty for maximum impact.
Flavor Hacks & Savory Swaps: Tips for the Perfect Bite
To dial up the heat, use spicy chorizo in place of hot sausage or sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper. Prefer a milder version? Swap the hot sausage for sweet Italian sausage or even ground turkey for a lighter spin.
Velveeta melts like a dream, but sharp cheddar or pepper jack can be substituted for a different flavor profile—just be sure to shred and melt gently. For a festive touch, add diced green bell peppers or chopped olives to the mixture before baking.
These bites are also great made ahead—just assemble and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Keep the Party Going: Storing & Reheating Leftovers
Hanky Panky Bites reheat beautifully. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warm and bubbly again.
To freeze, place assembled but unbaked bites on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen at 350°F for 15–18 minutes.
Hanky Panky Bites
Ingredients
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese cubed
- 1 12 oz package of party rye or pumpernickel bread
- 1 lb ground hot sausage
- 1 lb ground beef 80% lean
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add both the sausage and ground beef. Cook, breaking the meat into crumbles, until no longer pink. Drain the rendered fat.
- Reduce the heat to low and return the skillet to the stovetop. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and garlic powder, then add the Velveeta. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lay out the party rye or pumpernickel slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Top each slice with approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat and cheese mixture.
- Place in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and hot.
- Serve immediately while warm.
