Short Description
If you’re looking for a fun, savory appetizer that’s perfect for any party, these Hanky Panky Bites are the answer! A twist on the classic, these bite-sized treats feature a creamy, spiced beef mixture spread on toast rounds, then baked until crispy and golden. They’re addictive, easy to make, and will be the first thing to disappear from the snack table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
What’s not to love about these Hanky Panky Bites? They’re savory, cheesy, and have just the right amount of spice. They’re incredibly easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making them ideal for any gathering or casual get-together. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and crisp toast makes each bite irresistible. Plus, they’re totally customizable if you want to add a little extra kick or tweak the flavors!
Ingredients
(Full list of ingredients below, but here’s a peek at what you’ll need)
- Ground beef
- Cream cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Worcestershire sauce
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Bread (like rye or pumpernickel, cut into small rounds)
- Hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure to crumble the beef as it cooks so it’s nice and even. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside to cool for a minute.
2. Mix the Beef and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. If you like a little extra spice, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix.
3. Prepare the Bread
Slice your bread into small rounds. Rye or pumpernickel works best for this recipe, but you can use any type of sturdy bread you have on hand. Place the bread rounds on a baking sheet, ready for their tasty topping.
4. Assemble the Bites
Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture onto each bread round. Be sure to spread it evenly so every bite has that delicious filling.
5. Bake and Serve
Place the assembled bites in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and the bread is golden and crispy. If you want an extra crispy bite, you can broil them for the last minute or two—just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
6. Serve Warm
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, so be sure to serve them straight from the oven to your guests!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a sturdy bread like rye or pumpernickel to ensure it holds up to the hearty beef mixture. Sliced baguette or even small crackers work in a pinch but might be a bit more delicate.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing—it will help it blend better with the beef and create a smooth, creamy mixture.
- If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble the bites and refrigerate them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- You can add a little sautéed onion or bell pepper to the beef mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a bit more hot sauce or even some chopped jalapeños to the mix.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or even a blend of different cheeses to change up the flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These Hanky Panky Bites are great on their own, but they also pair well with a few other appetizers. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, some crispy veggies with dip, or a classic cheese platter for a more varied spread. You can also enjoy them with a glass of white wine or even a cold beer to complement the savory flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These bites are best served fresh out of the oven, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
4 FAQs
- Can I make Hanky Panky Bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate the bites until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking so they cook evenly. - Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work great as a lighter alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to season it well, as poultry tends to have a milder flavor. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Sure! While cheddar is traditional, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little extra spice. - Can I make these without the bread?
You can skip the bread altogether and serve the beef mixture on mini crackers, vegetable slices, or even on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
These Hanky Panky Bites are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to big parties. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy bread base, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. They’re quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious, making them the ideal choice when you want a crowd-pleasing snack that’s full of flavor. Try them at your next event, and watch them disappear!
Hanky Panky Bites: The Perfect Party Appetizer You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24–32 bites (serves 4–6 people) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hanky Panky Bites are a fun, savory appetizer with a creamy beef mixture spread on toast rounds, baked until golden and crispy. Easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next party!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 12–16 Bread rounds (rye or pumpernickel)
- 1–2 tbsp Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Mix the Beef and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef with cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy. Optional: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the bread into small rounds. Place on a baking sheet.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cheese mixture onto each bread round. Spread evenly.
- Bake and Serve: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Let cool slightly before serving. Best served fresh from the oven.
Notes
- Use rye or pumpernickel bread for best results, but other sturdy breads like baguette slices work too.
- If making ahead, assemble the bites and refrigerate them. Bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 bites
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg