Description
Party-Style Hanky Panky Appetizers are bite-sized, savory treats featuring a flavorful blend of browned Italian sausage and creamy cheese spread on crispy toasted rye bread. These easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a delicious combination of savory, tangy, and melty textures that guests will love.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1/2 lb Ground Beef
- 1/2 lb Italian Sausage
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
For the Spread
- 4 oz Cream Cheese
- 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
For Assembly
- 12 slices Rye Bread, cut into small squares or triangles
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar)
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the appetizers to a crispy, golden finish.
- Cook Sausage and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage with the finely chopped onion. Stir occasionally and cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the skillet from heat. Add the cream cheese to the sausage mixture and stir until well combined. Fold in the Worcestershire sauce along with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create a creamy, flavorful spread.
- Prepare Toasted Bread: Toast the rye bread slices until they are crisp. Then, spread a generous and even layer of the sausage and cheese mixture over each piece.
- Bake Appetizers: Arrange the topped bread pieces on a baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top, then bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are lightly browned.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the appetizers at their melty, savory best.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage for Italian sausage and Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Make sure to drain excess grease after browning the sausage to avoid soggy bread.
- Customize by adding herbs like thyme or smoked paprika for additional flavor layers.
- Serve immediately after baking for best texture and flavor.
- These appetizers can be assembled ahead, refrigerated, and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
