Ingredients
Scale
For the Topping:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb spicy or mild pork sausage (or Italian sausage)
- 1 lb processed cheese (such as Velveeta), cubed
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Base:
- 1 loaf cocktail rye or pumpernickel bread (approximately 24 slices)
Optional Toppings:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Cook the Topping:
- Brown the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and sausage, breaking them up into small crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the seasonings.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cubed processed cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and combined with the meat mixture. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Appetizers:
- Prepare the Bread: Arrange the rye or pumpernickel slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Add the Topping: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the meat and cheese mixture onto each slice of bread, spreading it to the edges.
Bake the Appetizers:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the topping is bubbly.
- Broil (Optional): For extra crispiness, broil the appetizers for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the appetizers to a serving platter and enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g