Hanky Panky Recipe
Introduction
Hanky Panky is a comforting and savory dish that combines hearty ground meats with creamy Velveeta cheese, all served on toasted rye or pumpernickel bread. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.

Ingredients
- 1 pound hot pork sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Rye bread (or pumpernickel bread)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the hot pork sausage and ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain off any excess fat and return the meat to the pan.
- Step 2: Add the Velveeta cheese, garlic salt, salt, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce to the meat. Stir gently over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Step 3: Spread the meat and cheese mixture evenly on individual-sized slices of rye or pumpernickel bread.
- Step 4: Place the prepared bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, use mild pork sausage instead of hot.
- Try adding chopped onions or green peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute Velveeta with another melting cheese like cheddar for a different taste.
- Serve with a side of pickles or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, re-toast the bread in the oven briefly before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Hanky Panky ahead of time?
You can prepare the meat and cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, spread it on the bread and bake as directed.
Is rye bread necessary for this recipe?
While rye and pumpernickel are traditional choices for their flavor, you can use any sturdy bread that holds up well to the toppings, such as whole wheat or sourdough.
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Hanky Panky Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings 1x
Description
Hanky Panky is a comforting, cheesy meat spread traditionally served warm on rye or pumpernickel bread. It features a savory blend of browned sausage and ground beef combined with Velveeta cheese and flavorful seasonings, then baked briefly to create a bubbling, toasted appetizer or snack that’s perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound hot pork sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
Seasonings & Cheese
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Serving
- Rye bread or pumpernickel bread, individual-sized slices
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the hot pork sausage and ground beef together until fully cooked, breaking up the meat into crumbles. Drain any excess fat thoroughly, then return the meat to the pan to keep warm.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Cut the Velveeta cheese into chunks and add it to the hot meat along with garlic salt, salt, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the warm meat and cheese mixture evenly over individual-sized slices of rye or pumpernickel bread placed on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 5 minutes, until the bread is toasted and the topping is hot and bubbling.
Notes
- You can substitute Velveeta cheese with a smooth melting cheese like American or processed cheese if preferred.
- For milder flavor, use mild pork sausage instead of hot.
- Serve Hanky Panky as an appetizer with a side of pickles or a fresh salad for balance.
- Ensure to drain the cooked meat well to avoid greasy spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Hanky Panky, cheese meat spread, pumpernickel appetizer, sausage and beef spread, party appetizer, rye bread topping

