Some of the best gatherings don’t happen around a perfectly set table.
They happen standing near a fire—plate in one hand, drink in the other—laughing while something warm melts just a little too much.
That’s where savory s’mores come in.
This isn’t a recipe built on precision or presentation. It’s built on connection. Savory s’mores are interactive, flexible, and intentionally unfussy—designed to slow people down and draw them closer together. Instead of dessert marshmallows, we’re roasting cheese. Instead of chocolate, we’re layering jams, cured meats, herbs, and spice.
They’ve become one of my favorite ways to host—especially for the holidays, outdoor dinners, or any night when the fire pit is already going and you want something cozy without overthinking it.
If you’re planning a relaxed get-together, this pairs beautifully with the mindset I share in Hosting a Holiday Gathering—food that invites people to linger rather than rush.
Why Savory S’mores Work So Well for Entertaining
Savory s’mores live right in that sweet spot between a cheese board and a warm appetizer:
- Guests build their own bites
- Nothing feels overly formal
- Ingredients are familiar but elevated
- Everyone naturally gathers around the fire
They’re also endlessly adaptable. You can go elegant, rustic, spicy, or fresh—all using the same basic setup. If you already keep a well-stocked pantry, many of these ingredients overlap with what I recommend in Pantry Staples for Easy Entertaining.
The Fire-Pit Savory S’mores Lineup
These combinations are meant to be mixed and matched. Set them out buffet-style and let guests explore.
Brie + Caramelized Onion Jam + Crispy Prosciutto + Thyme
Rich, smoky, and French-bistro inspired.
Smoked Salmon + Boursin + Pickled Onion + Dill
Fresh and elegant, especially with a squeeze of lemon.
Andouille Sausage + Smoked Gouda + Pepper Jelly
Bold, smoky, and sweet-heat perfection.
Red Pesto + Mozzarella + Prosciutto + Basil
A Tuscan-style campfire moment—excellent with an optional balsamic drizzle.
Brie + Guava Jam + Mint
Sweet-savory with tropical flair.
Goat Cheese + Fig Jam + Crispy Prosciutto
Perfectly balanced and cocktail-friendly.
Gruyère + Caramelized Onion + Thyme
Think French onion soup… without the spoon.
Brie + Hot Honey + Apple Slice
Sweet, spicy, and cozy with a crisp finish.
Hosting Tips for Savory S’mores Success
Prep everything ahead
Slice cheeses, portion toppings, and arrange components before guests arrive so hosting stays relaxed.
Lightly label combinations
A small handwritten card helps guests navigate without feeling instructed.
Offer two base options
Crackers for lighter bites and sliced baguette for heartier ones.
Keep the fire gentle
Hot embers melt cheese evenly—open flames tend to scorch.
For ease and safety, long fire pit roasting forks make a huge difference, especially when kids or multiple guests are involved.
Here are some quick pickled addition that just takes this whole thing to the next level: use my pickled onion and pepper recipe and my pickled cranberry recipe.
Make-Ahead & Storage Notes
- All toppings can be prepped up to two days ahead
- Store cheeses tightly wrapped in the refrigerator
- Assemble only when ready to serve
Having a dedicated serving board nearby makes it easy to rotate ingredients in and out as the evening unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make savory s’mores indoors?
Yes—use a grill pan or broiler. That said, fire adds something special you can’t quite replicate.
Are there vegetarian options?
Absolutely. Skip the meats and add roasted mushrooms, peppers, nuts, or olives.
What drinks pair best?
Wine, warm cocktails, cider, or mocktails all work beautifully. Choose something that encourages sipping and staying awhile.
Final Thought
Savory s’mores aren’t about perfection.
They’re about slowing down, gathering close, and letting food do what it does best—create connection. When everyone’s standing around the fire, building something warm with their hands, conversation comes easily. And that’s the kind of hosting that lasts long after the embers fade.
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Savory S’mores (Fire-Pit Appetizer Board)
Equipment
- Fire pit or outdoor grill
- Long roasting forks or skewers
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Small serving bowls
- Heat-safe tray
Ingredients
Bases
- 2 baguettes sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Assorted crackers water crackers or wheat
Cheeses
- 16 oz Brie cut into wedges
- 8 oz Boursin or herbed cream cheese
- 8 oz Fresh mozzarella balls
- 6 oz Goat cheese
- 6 oz Gruyère cubed
- 6 oz Smoked Gouda sliced
Proteins
- 8 oz Prosciutto
- 6 oz Smoked salmon
- 1 Andouille sausage sliced
Spreads & Toppings
- Caramelized onion jam
- Pepper jelly
- Red pesto
- Fig jam
- Guava jam
- Hot honey
- Dijon mustard
- Pickled red onions
Fresh Garnishes
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh dill
- Fresh basil
- Fresh mint
- Lemon wedges
- Thin apple slices
Instructions
- Prepare the fire pit or grill and allow flames to settle into hot embers.
- Arrange all ingredients on a large serving board near the fire.
- Spear cheese (and sausage where applicable) with roasting forks.
- Hold over embers until cheese is soft and melty (1–2 minutes).
- Transfer cheese to baguette slices or crackers.
- Add spreads, meats, and garnishes according to flavor combinations.
- Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- Swap meats for roasted vegetables to make vegetarian versions.
- Prep all components ahead; roast and assemble just before serving.
- Best served immediately; cheeses do not reheat well.
Rufus Dewanou says
The Colorful Pantry