Introduction
This retro party snack has been a staple at family gatherings, game days, and holidays for decades. Mini slices of rye bread are topped with a savory mixture of sausage and melted cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and addictive — perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1 loaf cocktail rye bread (small square slices, about 2–3 inches)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook sausage and beef: In a large skillet, cook sausage and ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Melt cheese: Lower the heat, then add cubed Velveeta to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Season mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Mix well.
- Prepare bread: Place slices of cocktail rye bread on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Top with mixture: Spoon about 1 heaping tablespoon of the sausage-cheese mixture onto each slice.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the topping is hot and bubbly.
- Serve warm as appetizers.
Variations
- Spicy version: Use hot sausage and add diced jalapeños.
- Cheese swap: Replace Velveeta with a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese.
- Pizza style: Add a spoonful of pizza sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella before baking.
- Freezer friendly: Assemble the rye bread with topping, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 15–17 minutes.
History
“Hanky Pankies” (also known as Polish Mistakes) gained popularity in the Midwest and Southern U.S. in the 1960s–70s. They became a common cocktail party food because they could be made in bulk, frozen ahead, and quickly baked before serving.
Benefits
- Easy to make in large batches.
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead parties.
- Bite-sized, so perfect for entertaining.
- Rich, cheesy, and savory — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition (per piece, approx.)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
(values depend on brand and portion size)
Conclusion
Sausage Rye Bread Appetizers are a nostalgic, crave-worthy snack that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a football party, holiday gathering, or just want a savory bite, these cheesy sausage toasts will disappear in minutes!
