Hissy Fit Dip is a rich, cheesy baked appetizer packed with savory sausage, tangy cream cheese, zesty Rotel, and layers of melted cheddar and mozzarella. Baked until hot and bubbly with a golden top, this irresistible dip delivers bold flavor in every scoop. Perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings, it’s the kind of appetizer that disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy Texture – Cream cheese and sour cream create a smooth, luscious base.
• Savory Sausage Flavor – Adds hearty depth and satisfying richness.
• Perfectly Cheesy Finish – Sharp cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully.
• Quick Party Favorite – Simple prep and oven bake.
• Customizable Heat Level – Use mild or spicy sausage and adjust cayenne.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – Guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy) – Provides savory richness and texture.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Forms creamy base.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tang and smoothness.
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Delivers bold cheesy flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds meltability and stretch.
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel, drained – Adds tangy tomato and mild heat.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Boosts savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds subtle sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Provides heat.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances seasoning.
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease thoroughly.

Prepare the Creamy Base

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Incorporate the Mix-Ins

Fold in cooked sausage, drained Rotel, cheddar, and mozzarella. Stir until evenly combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread mixture evenly in a greased 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.

Bake Until Bubbly

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley or green onions and serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Drain Sausage Well – Prevents greasy dip.
• Use Softened Cream Cheese – Ensures smooth mixing.
• Drain Rotel Thoroughly – Excess liquid thins the dip.
• Add Extra Cheese on Top – For a golden crust.
• Serve Immediately – Best texture while hot.
• Double for Larger Crowds – Easily scalable recipe.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 450–500 calories per serving (estimate)

(Nutritional values are approximate.)

Perfect Pairings

• Tortilla Chips – Classic scoop option.
• Toasted Baguette Slices – Adds crunch and sturdiness.
• Celery or Bell Pepper Sticks – Lighter dipping alternative.
• Cold Beer or Sparkling Soda – Complements savory richness.

Ideal Occasions

• Game Day Gatherings – Perfect shareable appetizer.
• Holiday Parties – Easy crowd favorite.
• Potluck Events – Travels well in baking dish.
• Family Movie Night – Comfort snack upgrade.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate in Airtight Container – Keeps up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat in Oven at 325°F – Maintains creamy texture.
• Microwave for Quick Warm-Up – Stir halfway through heating.
• Do Not Freeze – Dairy texture may separate.

Creative Variations to Try

• Buffalo Style – Add 2 tablespoons hot sauce.
• Bacon Boost – Stir in crispy crumbled bacon.
• Tex-Mex Twist – Add black beans and corn.
• Extra Spicy Version – Add diced jalapeños.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dip Too Greasy – Ensure sausage fat is drained.
• Watery Texture – Drain Rotel fully before mixing.
• Not Melting Evenly – Mix cheeses thoroughly before baking.
• Too Thick After Cooling – Stir in a spoonful of warm milk.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a stable, creamy base that holds up to baking without separating. Sausage provides fat and protein, enhancing richness and texture. Baking uncovered allows moisture to evaporate slightly while forming a lightly golden top layer. The layered cheeses melt at different rates, creating both stretch and sharp flavor. At roughly 475 calories per serving, this dip is indulgent but perfectly portioned for sharing.

Final Thoughts

Hissy Fit Dip is the ultimate cheesy, savory appetizer that delivers bold flavor and creamy comfort in every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering. For a slightly lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and turkey sausage while maintaining the same rich, satisfying texture. However you serve it, expect empty bowls and recipe requests.