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 instantly became a favorite at my last game day party everyone loved the dramatic presentation and delicious flavors.
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 This dish has become a tradition at family gatherings with everyone eager to dig in and enjoy the molten cheesy goodness together.
Variations
Switch out cheddar for smoked gouda for a richer flavor or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the cheese dip for an extra smoky taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp lager or a fruity white wine to perfectly complement the spicy and smoky flavors of the dip.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven to maintain the dip’s molten texture.
Save This dip platter is sure to dazzle your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the dip to resemble a volcano?
Transfer the cheese mixture to a small ovenproof bowl and smooth the top into a mound with a small crater-like well in the center before baking.
- → Can I make this platter vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and replace it with grilled mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- → What veggies work best for the lava flows?
Cherry tomatoes, mini bell peppers, baby carrots, and broccoli florets create vibrant red, orange, and green lava flows around the dip.
- → How can I add smoky flavor to the dip?
Add a few drops of liquid smoke or substitute smoked gouda for cheddar to deepen the smoky taste.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve warm with a combination of tortilla and pita chips for scooping, and pair with a crisp lager or fruity white wine.