I use a corning ware handled thing (looks like a big mug) and it is about 3 1/2 in high. Mine comes out good each time. I double the recipe sometimes and have been adding an extra oz of cream cheese. One time I under cooked it and put it back in some more and just watched it . It is supposed to be firm ,not runny or anything. I don't know why yours exploded. Sorry.
Cindy