Hanky Panky Recipe

The Zesty Hanky Panky Recipe That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance

This classic cocktail packs a delightful hanky panky recipe punch that instantly sparks conversation at any gathering.

Sharp gin blends perfectly with sweet vermouth and a dash of herbal complexity.

The drink emerged from London’s legendary American Bar at the Savoy Hotel in the early 1900s.

Legendary bartender ada coleman crafted this sophisticated libation with elegant simplicity.

Each sip tells a story of refined mixology and timeless charm.

The balanced blend of ingredients creates a smooth, intriguing experience that will captivate your taste buds.

Shake, strain, and prepare to be transported by this iconic cocktail’s magical allure.

Hanky Panky What Makes It a Party Classic

  • Perfect appetizer for game nights, cocktail parties, or casual gatherings where guests want something tasty and satisfying.
  • Requires minimal cooking skills with basic ingredients anyone can handle, making it an ideal recipe for beginner cooks or busy individuals.
  • Combines rich ground meat with melty cheese on crispy bread, creating an irresistible combination that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Ready in just a few minutes from start to finish, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal time investment, perfect for unexpected hunger moments.

Hanky Panky Ingredient List

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and protein for the dish.
  • Sausage: Adds extra depth and spiciness to the overall taste profile.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Velveeta Cheese: A creamy processed cheese that melts smoothly and binds the ingredients together.
  • Cream Cheese: Contributes a tangy richness and helps create a smooth texture.
Bread and Seasonings:
  • Cocktail Rye Bread, Pumpernickel Bread: Serves as a crispy base that holds the meat and cheese mixture.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory flavor with a complex, tangy note.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the overall seasoning.

Tools for Crafting the Perfect Hanky Panky Appetizer

  • Large Skillet: Essential for browning meats and creating the filling.
  • Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
  • Baking Sheet: Needed for toasting bread and assembling the final dish.
  • Cheese Grater: Helpful for shredding cheese if using block cheese.
  • Knife: Required for cutting and preparing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons: Useful for adding precise amounts of seasonings.

Hanky Panky Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a skillet, sizzle and brown the ground beef or sausage until it’s fully cooked.

Tip out any extra grease to keep things light.

Step 3: Create Cheesy Goodness

Toss these ingredients into the meat:
  • Cream cheese
  • Shredded cheddar
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Garlic powder
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir everything together until the cheeses melt into a smooth, tantalizing mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the Base

Grab your favorite party-ready bread – cocktail rye or sourdough slices work wonderfully.

Spread the meaty, cheesy mixture generously across each slice.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your loaded bread onto a baking sheet and pop into the hot oven.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges turn golden and the top gets wonderfully bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pull these tasty bites out of the oven and serve immediately while they’re hot and irresistible.

Watch them disappear in moments at your gathering!

Smart Tips for Great Hanky Panky Results

  • Remove all excess grease from browned meat to prevent soggy bread and ensure a crisp appetizer.
  • Select high-quality ground beef or Italian sausage for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the tangy taste and create a more robust melting consistency.
  • Cut bread into uniform, bite-sized pieces for consistent baking and professional presentation.
  • Prepare mixture in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to save time during entertaining.

Tasty Ways to Change Up Hanky Panky

  • Vegetarian Victory: Replace ground meat with crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternative, using same seasoning techniques for protein-rich option.
  • Gluten-Free Goodness: Swap regular bread with gluten-free bread slices or crispy corn tortillas to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chiles, swap standard cheese with pepper jack, and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Low-Carb Crunch: Use large cheese crisps or cucumber rounds instead of bread as base, maintaining original flavor profile while reducing carbohydrate content.

Plating Ideas for Hanky Panky Parties

  • Party Platter Perfection: Slice the Hanky Panky into bite-sized squares for easy appetizer sharing during game nights or football watch parties.
  • Cocktail Companion: Pair these savory bites with cold beer, crisp white wine, or a zesty margarita to enhance the flavor profile and create a complete dining experience.
  • Dipping Delight: Serve alongside marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard for guests who love extra dipping options that complement the rich meat and cheese mixture.
  • Brunch Twist: Transform the recipe into a weekend morning treat by adding a fried egg on top and serving with fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast variation.

How to Store Hanky Panky the Easy Way

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap. Place in freezer bags and store for up to 1 month. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Place leftovers on microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Stop when heated through.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Arrange leftovers on baking sheet. Cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and edges crisp up.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in Hanky Panky?

The main ingredients are ground beef, sausage, cheese (typically Velveeta), and bread or cocktail rye. Seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder are also commonly used.

  • Is this recipe good for parties or gatherings?

Absolutely! Hanky Panky is a perfect appetizer for game days, potlucks, and casual get-togethers. They’re easy to make, bite-sized, and always a crowd-pleaser.

  • Can I make Hanky Panky ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble and bake for quick and fresh appetizers.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Hanky Panky Recipe

Hanky Panky Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Hanky panky appetizers blend Italian sausage and melted cheese on crisp rye bread for a delightful party snack. Partygoers will devour these zesty, satisfying bites that promise crowd-pleasing flavor in every single bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 1 pound (454 grams) hot pork sausage

Cheese:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) velveeta cheese, diced

Seasonings and Bread:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 loaf cocktail rye bread

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to a sizzling 400°F, preparing for a savory culinary adventure.
  2. In a skillet, thoroughly brown the ground meat, carefully draining away any lingering fat to ensure a crisp, clean flavor profile.
  3. Introduce cheese and selected seasonings to the meat, gently stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, fully incorporated blend.
  4. Generously spread the meat and cheese mixture across prepared bread slices, creating an even, appetizing layer.
  5. Transfer the prepared slices to a baking sheet, sliding them into the heated oven for 8-10 minutes until the top becomes golden and edges turn tantalizingly crisp.
  6. Remove from the oven and serve immediately while the appetizer remains piping hot and wonderfully aromatic.

Notes

  • Experiment with different ground meats like turkey or lamb for varied flavor profiles.
  • Swap regular bread for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Use plant-based cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version of this appetizer.
  • Adjust seasoning levels to suit personal taste preferences, trying smoked paprika or cayenne for extra kick.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Cocktails
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star