Hanky Pankies Vintage Appetizer
A cheesy, savory mixture of ground beef and sausage is scooped onto soft slider buns for a classic party snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended, 450 g
- 1 lb pork breakfast sausage 450 g
- 1 lb processed American cheese (like Velveeta) cut into 1-inch cubes, 450 g
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or to taste
- 24 small slider buns such as pretzel or Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (optional), 28 g
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sausage.
- Cook the meats, breaking them apart with a spoon, for 8-10 minutes until fully browned with no pink remaining. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C).
- Carefully drain all the excess grease from the skillet.
- Return the skillet to medium heat. Stir in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the cubed cheese to the meat. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- If desired, brush the cut sides of the slider buns with melted butter. Toast them in a separate pan over medium heat or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the warm meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Place the top buns on and serve immediately.
Notes
Food Safety: Ensure the ground meat mixture is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) as measured with a food thermometer.
Cheese Choice: Processed cheese melts the creamiest. You can substitute with 24 slices of deli American cheese; just tear them into smaller pieces before adding to the pan.
Spice Level: For a milder appetizer, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, use a hot variety of pork sausage.
Make Ahead: The meat filling can be made ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess, before serving.