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Classic Hanky Panky Appetizer Recipe

Close-up of a slice of dark toast topped with a thick layer of bubbling, melted orange cheese mixture for the hanky panky recipe.

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Make this easy appetizer recipe featuring a savory, cheesy meat spread baked on bread slices. This retro snack is a crowd-pleasing finger food perfect for game days or holiday parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 loaf pumpernickel or rye bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease completely.
  3. Transfer the cooked sausage to a medium mixing bowl.
  4. Add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper to the sausage. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined into a thick spread.
  5. Spread a generous layer of the sausage and cheese mixture onto each slice of bread.
  6. Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are lightly toasted.
  8. Serve these hot dips for parties immediately as a simple savory snack.

Notes

  • You can substitute the pumpernickel bread with rye bread or sturdy crackers for a different texture.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, you can use half ground beef and half sausage in the meat mixture.
  • Prepare the topping mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before spreading and baking.

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