Are you looking for an easy, quick, and delicious appetizer to wow your friends or family? Look no further—this Hanky Panky recipe is a total game-changer! These little bites of joy are the perfect mix of savory, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or preparing for a party, this recipe will definitely have everyone asking for seconds. It’s simple, full of flavor, and won’t take up all your time in the kitchen.
What is Hanky Panky?
If you’ve never heard of Hanky Panky, don’t worry—you’re not alone! This tasty treat is a Midwest favorite, especially around the holidays. It’s a mix of sausage, cheese, and seasonings spread on rye crackers and baked until golden and bubbly. I first tried Hanky Panky at a friend’s party, and I have to say, I was hooked from the first bite. The combination of savory sausage with melty cheese just works so well. The rye crackers add the perfect crunch, making every bite absolutely irresistible.
The great thing about Hanky Panky is how easy it is to make. You can whip it up in no time with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that’s flexible—if you prefer a different kind of cheese or want to spice it up with a little heat, go for it!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Hanky Panky
Before we get started, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make these amazing little appetizers. It’s a no-fuss list that you probably already have on hand or can easily grab on your next grocery run.
- 1 pound of ground sausage – I usually go with a breakfast sausage for that perfect balance of flavor. You can choose a spicy sausage if you like a bit more heat.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – This is the classic cheese for Hanky Panky, but you can mix it up with a blend of cheeses if you want.
- 1 tablespoon of mustard – It gives a little tanginess to the mix and enhances the savory flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce – This adds a deep, rich umami flavor that makes the topping even more delicious.
- 1 package of rye crackers – The crunchy, slightly tangy rye crackers are a must for this recipe. They hold the mixture perfectly and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Optional: chopped onions or green onions – If you like a little extra flavor or crunch, these are great additions.
How to Make Hanky Panky
Making Hanky Panky is super easy. The hardest part? Waiting for them to bake while your kitchen fills with that mouth-watering smell. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks, making sure it’s evenly browned. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
Once the sausage is browned and drained, add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. This will create a creamy, savory filling that’s packed with flavor.
Step 3: Top the Rye Crackers
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Hanky Panky! Arrange the rye crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer. Spoon the sausage mixture onto each cracker, making sure each one is generously topped. Don’t be shy—this mixture is the star of the show!
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know they’re ready when you can’t resist sneaking a bite because the smell is absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. Serve them up warm, and watch them disappear. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday parties. Trust me, they’ll be the first thing to go!
Tips for the Perfect Hanky Panky
I’ve made Hanky Panky a few times now, and I’ve learned a couple of tricks to make this recipe even better. Here are my top tips:
1. Use High-Quality Sausage
While any sausage will do, I find that using a good-quality breakfast sausage really makes a difference. It gives the mixture a rich, flavorful base that complements the cheese perfectly. If you want something with a little kick, try using spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
2. Don’t Skip the Rye Crackers
The rye crackers are key to this recipe. They add just the right amount of crunch and a bit of tang. I’ve tried it with other crackers, but nothing quite beats the combination of rye and sausage.
3. Customize the Cheese
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with other cheeses if you like. A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack makes for a nice, melty topping. Or, go for a more tangy flavor with some crumbled blue cheese.
4. Add a Personal Touch
Feel free to experiment with the flavors. Add some chopped green onions for a bit of freshness, or throw in a dash of hot sauce if you like things spicy. You can also top the Hanky Panky with some fresh herbs like parsley for an extra pop of color.
5. Make Ahead
This recipe is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare the sausage mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, just top the crackers and bake them. Super easy and convenient when you’re hosting a party or want to have a snack ready for guests.
Why You’ll Love Hanky Panky
There are so many reasons to love this Hanky Panky recipe. First, it’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking skills—just a few pantry staples and about 20 minutes of your time. It’s also perfect for busy days when you need to whip up something quick but still want to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. You won’t find anyone who doesn’t love these cheesy, sausage-topped crackers!
And the best part? You can easily customize it to fit your tastes. Whether you like it spicy or mild, with extra cheese or a touch of mustard, Hanky Panky can be tailored to fit your preferences. It’s one of those recipes that feels like it was meant to be made your way.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s quick, easy, and downright delicious, this Hanky Panky recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for all sorts of occasions and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Trust me, once you make these little bites of heaven, you’ll be adding them to your regular rotation. So grab your ingredients, gather your family or friends, and enjoy some Hanky Panky today!
Hanky Panky Recipe: A Fun Twist on a Classic Snack
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground sausage – I usually go with a breakfast sausage for that perfect balance of flavor. You can choose a spicy sausage if you like a bit more heat.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – This is the classic cheese for Hanky Panky but you can mix it up with a blend of cheeses if you want.
- 1 tablespoon of mustard – It gives a little tanginess to the mix and enhances the savory flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce – This adds a deep rich umami flavor that makes the topping even more delicious.
- 1 package of rye crackers – The crunchy slightly tangy rye crackers are a must for this recipe. They hold the mixture perfectly and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Optional: chopped onions or green onions – If you like a little extra flavor or crunch these are great additions.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks, making sure it’s evenly browned. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
- Once the sausage is browned and drained, add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. This will create a creamy, savory filling that’s packed with flavor.
Step 3: Top the Rye Crackers
- Now comes the fun part—assembling your Hanky Panky! Arrange the rye crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer. Spoon the sausage mixture onto each cracker, making sure each one is generously topped. Don’t be shy—this mixture is the star of the show!
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know they’re ready when you can’t resist sneaking a bite because the smell is absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once they’re baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. Serve them up warm, and watch them disappear. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday parties. Trust me, they’ll be the first thing to go!