Hanky Panky Appetizers are the perfect little bites that bring together crisp, flaky bacon wrapped around tender, flavorful fillings. They’re smoky, a little sweet, and always the star of any party or gathering. These appetizers pack a punch with their mix of textures and bold flavors that everyone loves.
I love making Hanky Panky Appetizers because they’re so simple yet impressive. I usually prepare a bunch ahead of time and pop them in the oven just before guests arrive. Watching people’s faces light up when they take that first crunchy, savory bite never gets old. Plus, they’re easy to customize if you want to switch up the fillings based on what you have on hand.
When I serve these, I like having some dipping sauces nearby—a tangy barbecue or a little honey mustard always goes nicely. They’re great for sharing and make any gathering feel a little extra special. Honestly, once you try these, they’ll find a permanent spot on your appetizer rotation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: This is the heart of the filling, adding flavor and juiciness. I like using Italian sausage for its spices, but breakfast sausage works fine too. For a milder option, you can try ground turkey or chicken.
Onion, Celery & Bell Pepper: These veggies add softness and crunch. If you don’t have bell pepper, try using more celery or a little chopped carrot for sweetness.
Bacon & Brown Sugar: Bacon brings smoky crispiness, while brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory. If you want, swap bacon for pancetta or skip sugar for a less sweet bite.
Worcestershire Sauce & Mustard: These add depth and a bit of tang. Worcestershire can be replaced by soy sauce or even a splash of balsamic vinegar if needed.
Bread & Butter: Rye bread adds great flavor, but white or sourdough works well. Buttering the bread before toasting gives a golden crust—feel free to use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Get the Sausage Mixture Just Right?
The filling’s success depends on balance and texture. Here’s how I handle it:
- Cook bacon first for smoky flavor and keep the fat to brown sausage, enhancing taste.
- Break sausage into small pieces to avoid big chunks and ensure even cooking.
- Add your chopped veggies and cook until soft but not mushy; they should blend well without overpowering.
- Brown sugar and sauces go in last, cooking gently to let flavors meld without burning the sugar.
- Season lightly—taste as you go so it’s not too salty or sweet.
This preparation gives you a filling that’s juicy and full of layers, ready to be spooned over your perfectly toasted bread.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium skillet – I use it to cook bacon, sausage, and veggies all in one pan, making cleanup easier.
- Sharp knife – for chopping onion, celery, and bell pepper quickly and evenly.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients comfortably.
- Baking sheet – for toasting the bread until golden and crispy.
- Pastry brush or butter knife – to spread butter on bread slices evenly before toasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack on top before baking for extra richness.
- Different Meats: Swap sausage for cooked ground beef, turkey, or cooked bacon bits for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or chopped spinach for added nutrients and taste.
- Spices: Sprinkle a little paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder into the filling for extra punch.
How to Make Hanky Panky Appetizers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 pound ground sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (red or green)
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slices of rye bread or white bread, cut into small rectangles or rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend time cooking the sausage mixture, toasting the bread, and assembling the appetizers. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a last-minute party snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon and Sausage:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Take the bacon out and place it on paper towels to drain, but keep the bacon fat in the skillet. Then, add the ground sausage and cook it, breaking it into small crumbles, until it’s browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper to the sausage in the skillet. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and everything is nicely combined.
3. Mix in the Flavorings:
Now stir in the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and the cooked bacon pieces. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend well and the mixture thickens slightly. Add salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
4. Prepare and Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place the buttered side down on a baking sheet, and toast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
5. Assemble and Bake the Appetizers:
Spoon a generous amount of the sausage mixture on top of each toasted bread slice. Put them back in the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes so the toppings heat through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take the appetizers out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the sausage is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Can I Make Hanky Panky Appetizers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sausage mixture and toast the bread separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, assemble and bake for 5-7 minutes to warm through.
What Bread Works Best for These Appetizers?
Rye bread is traditional and adds great flavor, but white or sourdough bread also works well. Just make sure to cut the bread into small, uniform pieces so they toast evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the bread and warm the topping evenly.