Hanky Panky Recipe
Introduction
Hanky Panky is a nostalgic, savory open-faced sandwich that combines a hearty blend of sausage, ground beef, and melted Velveeta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting snack, it’s simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

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 together in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and return the meat to the pan.
- Step 2: Add Velveeta cheese, garlic salt, salt, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce to the browned meat. Stir gently over low heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Step 3: Spread the meat and cheese mixture evenly onto individual 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 (220°C) for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, substitute hot pork sausage with mild pork sausage or use all ground beef.
- Try adding a dash of hot sauce or chopped onions to the meat mixture for extra zest.
- Serve with a side of pickles or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
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, taking care not to dry out the bread.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, processed cheeses melt smoothly, but you can substitute with cheddar or a cheese blend for a different flavor and texture.
What is the best bread to use for Hanky Panky?
Traditionally, rye or pumpernickel bread is used for its sturdy texture and rich flavor, but any hearty bread that holds toppings well will work.
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Hanky Panky Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Description
Hanky Panky is a savory layered meat and cheese spread served hot on toasted rye or pumpernickel bread. This easy-to-make dish combines browned sausage and ground beef with creamy Velveeta cheese and flavorful seasonings, baked briefly until bubbly and toasted for a comforting appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound hot pork sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Bread
- Rye bread or pumpernickel bread, individual-sized slices
Instructions
- Brown the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the hot pork sausage and ground beef until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat thoroughly, then return the cooked meat to the pan.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: To the meat in the skillet, add the cubed Velveeta cheese along with garlic salt, salt, oregano, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Prepare the Bread: Lay individual slices of rye or pumpernickel bread on a baking sheet, evenly spreading the hot meat and cheese mixture over each slice.
- Bake the Topped Bread: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbling hot.
Notes
- You can substitute Velveeta with another creamy processed cheese if desired for a similar texture.
- Drain excess fat well after browning the meats to prevent greasiness in the final dish.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, as the baked topping is best enjoyed hot.
- For a milder flavor, use mild pork sausage instead of hot.
- Using pumpernickel bread adds a slight sweetness and dense texture, but rye bread works perfectly as well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Hanky Panky, cheesy meat spread, baked appetizer, sausage and beef topping, Velveeta recipe

