Hanky Panky Twist

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 20
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Hanky Panky Twist is a delightful spin on a classic appetizer that combines bold flavors with a touch of comfort. It's perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a zesty, cheesy bite on crispy rye bread.

Ingredients for Hanky Panky Twist

Spicy Italian sausage brings a robust, spicy kick that serves as the flavor foundation. Sharp cheddar cheese offers a creamy, tangy balance to the sausage's heat. Sour cream adds a smooth texture and slight tanginess, melding the flavors together beautifully. Green onions provide a fresh, zesty finish. A touch of smoked paprika and ground cumin introduces a smoky, earthy depth, while black pepper enhances the spice. Cocktail rye bread is the perfect vessel, sturdy yet crispy after baking. Finally, olive oil is used to cook the sausage to perfection.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispiness, toast the rye bread slightly before adding the topping.
  • Don't skip draining the fat from the sausage; it keeps the topping from becoming too oily.
  • Play with the spice levels by adding more or less smoked paprika and cumin to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Hanky Panky bites with a light salad to balance the richness. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to a hearty soup or a simple tomato bisque. For a party platter, serve alongside a mix of olives and pickles for a tangy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, you can experiment with pepper jack or gouda for different flavor profiles.
Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or even use a mix of sautéed mushrooms and peppers.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the sausage mixture ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, top the bread and bake as directed.

Hanky Panky Twist Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. You'll want the oven ready and hot when it's time to crisp up the rye bread. Now, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, crumble the spicy Italian sausage into the pan. As it cooks, use a spatula to break it into small pieces for even browning. This should take about 7-10 minutes until it's cooked through and beautifully browned.

Once your sausage is browned, you'll notice some excess fat in the skillet. Carefully drain this off to keep the dish from becoming greasy. With the skillet back on the heat, add in the sour cream, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it's well combined, letting those spices release their aromas. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy, cohesive mixture.

Next, line a baking sheet with your cocktail rye bread slices. Use a spoon to top each slice generously with the sausage and cheese mixture. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 10 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the bread is crispy and the topping is bubbly and slightly golden.

Finally, remove from the oven and let them cool for just a minute before garnishing with the chopped green onions. Serve these delicious bites warm for the best experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute guests.
  • Combines the rich flavors of spicy Italian sausage and sharp cheddar cheese.
  • The cocktail rye bread provides a perfect crispy base.
  • Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

1 lb spicy Italian sausage
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp ground cumin
20 slices cocktail rye bread
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned.
4. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
5. Stir in sour cream, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper.
6. Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
7. Arrange rye bread slices on a baking sheet.
8. Spoon the sausage and cheese mixture onto each slice.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the topping is bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

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