Here’s a classic, crowd-pleasing Hanky Panky Bites recipe—also known as “Sausage Beer Cheese Bites” or “Midwestern Party Starter.” These savory, cheesy, spiced meat bites are baked on rye bread slices or crackers for easy serving.
Ingredients
· 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or hot, based on preference)
· 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works well)
· 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed (or any processed cheese for melting)
· 1 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
· 1 loaf party rye bread or sturdy crackers (like Melba toast)
· Optional garnishes: sliced pickled jalapeños, chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the meats in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook sausage and beef together, breaking into fine crumbles. Drain excess grease.
- Add cheese and spices to the meat in the skillet. Reduce heat to low and stir until cheese is fully melted and mixture is creamy.
- Arrange bread slices on baking sheets. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of meat-cheese mixture onto each bread slice.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until bread is slightly crispy and topping is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish if desired and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
· Make ahead: Prepare the meat-cheese mixture and refrigerate up to 2 days. Assemble and bake just before serving.
· Spice it up: Use hot sausage, add diced green chiles, or top with a jalapeño slice before baking.
· Gluten-free option: Serve on gluten-free crackers or cucumber rounds.
These are always a hit at parties—simple, cheesy, savory, and satisfying! Perfect with a cold beer or soda. 🍻