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.
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 Notes
Substitute smoked gouda for cheddar for an earthier taste. Pair with a crisp lager or a fruity white wine.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Ovenproof ramekin or small bowl, Baking sheet, Spatula, Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, cream cheese). Contains gluten if using regular pita chips. Sausage may contain mustard or other allergens—check ingredient labels. Always double-check all ingredient labels for allergen safety.
Save This dish brings a fun and interactive experience to any gathering as guests enjoy the bold flavors and playful presentation.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I create the volcano shape for the dip?
Shape the cheese mixture into a mound in an ovenproof bowl, creating a small well at the top to resemble a crater before baking.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the smoked sausage and substitute with grilled mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for added texture and flavor.
- → What cheeses work best for this molten dip?
Sharp cheddar and cream cheese create a creamy base; smoked gouda can be used for a smokier, earthier twist.
- → How spicy is the dish and can it be adjusted?
The heat comes from pickled jalapeños and chili flakes; you can reduce or omit these to suit your taste preferences.
- → What are suitable dipping items for the platter?
Fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, plus tortilla and pita chips, and slices of smoky sausage complement the dip well.