Save A vibrant, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring a spicy, molten cheese dip surrounded by fresh veggies, chips, and smoky sausage, designed to mimic the dramatic look and flavor of a volcano eruption.
This dip platter has been a hit at every party I've brought it to. The way the cheese melts and bubbles like lava always impresses guests.
Ingredients
- Cheese Lava Dip: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup diced fire-roasted tomatoes (drained), 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños chopped, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Volcano Base & Platter Items: 1 (12 oz / 340 g) smoked sausage ring or kielbasa sliced, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup mini bell peppers sliced into strips, 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup broccoli florets, 2 cups tortilla chips, 1 cup pita chips
- Garnish (optional): 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup sliced black olives, red chili flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, combine cheddar cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, fire-roasted tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the cheese mixture to a small, ovenproof bowl or ramekin (about 2-cup capacity) and smooth the top into a volcano mound shape, creating a small well at the top to mimic a crater.
- Step 4:
- Place the sausage slices on a baking sheet. Bake the dip and sausage for 12-15 minutes, until the dip is bubbling and the sausage is heated through.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the volcano dip bowl in the center of a large platter. Fan out the warmed sausage, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, tortilla chips, and pita chips around the dip, creating lava flows with the red and orange vegetables and chips.
- Step 6:
- Garnish the dip with cilantro, black olives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes to resemble volcanic ash and lava. Serve immediately, scooping the hot, molten dip with veggies, sausage, or chips.
Save My family gathers around this platter every time, sharing laughs and memories while enjoying the interactive dipping experience.
Pairing Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with a crisp lager or a fruity white wine to balance the smoky and spicy flavors.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, cream cheese). Contains gluten if using regular pita chips. Sausage may contain mustard or other allergens—always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 340, Total Fat 23 g, Carbohydrates 17 g, Protein 13 g.
Save Serve this dip hot and fresh for the best molten lava effect and flavor satisfaction.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cheese works best for a molten dip?
Sharp cheddar combined with cream cheese creates a smooth, flavorful molten dip that melts evenly and offers a rich taste.
- → How can I make the dip spicier?
Adding pickled jalapeños and a sprinkle of chili flakes intensifies the heat, while smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky undertone.
- → Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cheese mixture in advance, but bake just before serving to keep the molten texture and warm presentation.
- → What are good dippers to serve alongside?
Fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and chips like tortilla and pita complement the dip with crunch and color.
- → How can I make a vegetarian version?
Omit the smoked sausage and add grilled mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for an earthier, meat-free alternative.