Deliciously Irresistible Hissy Fit

Hissy Fit Dip is my go to move when I need something hot, cheesy, and basically guaranteed to disappear fast. You know those days when people are coming over and you want to feel like you tried, but you also do not want to babysit a complicated recipe? Yep, this is for that. It is cozy, a little spicy if you want it to be, and the kind of dip that makes everyone hover near the snack table. I first made it for a last minute game day hangout and now my friends ask for it by name. Let me walk you through exactly how I make it so yours turns out creamy and not greasy.

Ingredients for the Best Hissy Fit Dip (Sausage, Cream Cheese, Velveeta & Seasonings)

This dip is simple on purpose. The magic is in a few familiar ingredients that melt into the kind of scoopable cheese situation we all secretly want. Here is what I use most of the time.

• Sausage (1 pound)
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened helps)
• Velveeta (16 ounces, cubed)
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Optional heat: crushed red pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce
• Optional add in: a can of Rotel, drained a little if you hate watery dip

If you want a fun snack spread, I like pairing this with a cold dip too so the table feels full without extra effort. This delicious bruschetta dip is a nice fresh contrast next to all this melty cheese.

Best Cheese & Sausage Options for Maximum Flavor and Creamy Texture

Let us talk ingredients swaps, because people always ask if they can use different cheese or sausage. You can, but here is what actually works.

For sausage, I love:

Regular pork sausage for classic flavor, hot sausage if you want a real kick, or turkey sausage if you want it a bit lighter. If you use turkey, add a pinch more seasoning since it can taste milder.

For cheese, the reason Velveeta shows up here is because it melts smoothly and helps the dip stay creamy even after it sits out a bit. Cream cheese adds that thick, rich body. If you want to swap Velveeta, use a good melting cheese and add a splash of milk, but just know the texture might be slightly less silky.

My best combo for parties is hot sausage plus Velveeta plus cream cheese. That is the version that gets people scraping the dish with a chip, which is honestly the highest compliment.

How to Make Cheesy Hissy Fit Dip Step-by-Step (Oven Baked Method)

This is my favorite method because it is hands off once it goes in the oven, and it stays hot longer in the baking dish.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 F.

Step 2: Brown the sausage in a skillet on the stove. Break it up into small crumbles. When it is cooked, drain off extra grease. I do not obsess over it, but I definitely do not leave a puddle in the pan.

Step 3: In a medium baking dish, add cubed Velveeta and cream cheese. Toss in your seasonings.

Step 4: Add the cooked sausage and stir a little. It will look messy and chunky, that is fine.

Step 5: Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once or twice, until everything is melted and smooth.

Step 6: Let it sit 5 minutes before serving. It thickens slightly and scoops better.

This is the moment where your kitchen smells so good that people wander in and start asking what is happening. If you are building a full game day menu, I also love doing something hearty like crockpot French dip sandwiches so everyone can eat and snack without you juggling a bunch of dishes.

Crockpot and Stovetop Instructions for Easy Hot Sausage Cheese Dip

Sometimes the oven is busy or you want the dip to stay warm for hours. Here is what works.

Crockpot method

Brown the sausage first and drain it. Add sausage, cubed Velveeta, cream cheese, and seasonings to the crockpot. Cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 20 to 30 minutes, until melted and smooth. Then switch to warm.

Stovetop method

Brown sausage and drain. Lower the heat, then add cubed Velveeta and cream cheese right into the skillet. Stir often until melted. Keep it on low so it does not scorch. If it gets too thick, add a spoonful of milk.

I do the crockpot version for potlucks because it travels well and stays creamy longer. For a fun dip trio, this Grinch dip recipe is cute for holidays when you want something sweet on the side.

Pro Tips for a Smooth, Creamy, Never-Greasy Cheese Dip

I have made every mistake at least once, so here is the stuff that actually keeps your Hissy Fit Dip creamy.

Drain the sausage. This is the big one. Too much grease makes the dip separate.

Use low heat when melting. High heat can cause oily edges and grainy texture.

Cube the Velveeta. It melts quicker and you stir less.

Stir a couple times while baking. It helps everything blend.

Do not over add liquid. If you add Rotel, consider draining a bit. You can always thin the dip later with a splash of milk.

Flavor Variations: Spicy Jalapeño, Rotel, Bacon, and Extra Cheesy Versions

This is where you can make the dip your own. I keep the base the same, then pick one vibe.

Spicy jalapeno: Add chopped pickled jalapenos and a little jalapeno brine for extra punch.

Rotel: Stir in one can of Rotel. It makes it a little looser and more snacky.

Bacon: Mix in chopped cooked bacon right before serving for that smoky crunch.

Extra cheesy: Add a handful of shredded cheddar at the end and stir until melted. Just do not replace the Velveeta completely if you want that smooth texture.

If you love bold flavors, these Korean BBQ meatballs with mayo dip are another party favorite in my house. Not the same vibe, but they disappear just as fast.

Low-Carb, Keto, and Gluten-Free Hissy Fit Dip Options

The good news is that Hissy Fit Dip is naturally gluten free if your sausage and seasonings are gluten free. Always check labels, especially with sausage, because fillers vary.

For low carb or keto, keep the base recipe and skip sugary add ins. Serve it with veggies instead of chips. If you are super strict, use a sausage with no added sugar and watch the Velveeta carbs. It is still usually workable for many people, just depends on your day.

What to Serve with Cheesy Hissy Fit Dip (Chips, Crackers, Bread & Veggies)

This is where the fun happens because the dip is rich, so you can go crunchy, sturdy, or fresh.

• Tortilla chips for classic scooping
• Pita chips for extra sturdiness
• Crackers if you want smaller bites
• Toasted baguette slices if you are feeling fancy but still casual
• Celery, bell peppers, cucumber rounds for a lighter option

If I have time, I like adding one cozy side to round out the table, like something smooth and comforting. This guide on sweet potato puree has easy ideas that fit right in for fall parties.

How to Store, Reheat, and Keep Cheese Dip Creamy

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It is best within 3 to 4 days.

To reheat, go low and slow. Microwave in 20 to 30 second bursts, stirring each time. Or warm it on the stovetop on low heat. If it looks too thick, add a splash of milk and stir until it loosens back up.

If it starts to look oily, it usually just needs a good stir and gentler heat. The texture comes back more often than you would think.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips for Party and Potluck Prep

You can absolutely prep this ahead, which is why I love it for busy weeks.

Make ahead: Cook the sausage, cube the cheese, and store everything in the baking dish covered in the fridge. When you are ready, bake it and stir halfway through.

Freezer: I do not love freezing this dip because dairy can change texture, but you can freeze it if you really want to. Freeze in a tightly sealed container, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat slowly and stir a lot. If it separates, a small splash of milk and patience helps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Baked Sausage Cheese Dip

These are the little things that can throw it off.

Not draining sausage and ending up with a greasy layer.

Using super high heat and scorching the cheese.

Skipping stirring and getting hot spots that melt unevenly.

Adding too much liquid and turning it into cheese soup.

Serving it ice cold because someone forgot it on the counter. This dip needs to be warm to be its best self.

Serving Ideas for Game Day, Holidays, Tailgating, and Potlucks

This is one of those recipes that fits anywhere snacks are welcome. I serve Hissy Fit Dip on game day with chips and a stack of napkins because it gets messy in the best way. For holidays, I put it in a smaller crockpot and set out both crackers and veggies so everyone can dig in. For tailgating, keep it hot in an insulated carrier and bring a big spoon so people can load it onto whatever they have.

If you want to make it feel extra, top it with chopped green onions or a tiny sprinkle of paprika right before serving. It takes two seconds but looks like you planned things.

Common Questions

Can I make Hissy Fit Dip without Velveeta?

You can, but it will not be quite as smooth. Use a good melting cheese and add a splash of milk, then melt gently and stir often.

How spicy is it?

With mild sausage, it is pretty mellow. With hot sausage and jalapenos, it definitely has heat. You control it.

Why did my dip get greasy?

Usually it is extra sausage grease or heat that was too high. Drain the sausage well and melt everything slowly.

Can I keep it warm for a party?

Yes, a crockpot on warm is perfect. Just stir once in a while so it stays creamy.

What is the best way to thin it if it gets too thick?

Add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, and stir until it loosens up.

A warm, cheesy send off

If you need a no stress party recipe that tastes like comfort food, Hissy Fit Dip is the one I would bet on every time. It is simple, crowd pleasing, and easy to tweak depending on who is coming over. If you want to see another fun spin and some game day energy, check out Hissy Fit Dip {Football Friday} – Plain Chicken for more inspiration. Now grab your chips, keep it warm, and do not be surprised when people ask you to make it again next weekend.

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