introduction
This easy 7-layer dip is for parties and big groups. It is creamy, fresh, and quick to make. You can put it in a wide dish and let guests scoop with chips. For another simple party snack idea, check out best sourdough discard recipes which offer more snack choices.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it feeds many people. It uses common store ingredients. You do not need much time or special tools. It looks bright and guests enjoy the mix of textures and flavors.
how to make 7-layer dip
Assemble the layers in a shallow dish. Start with the beans, then add the creamy layers, then the fresh layers. Chill a little if you like. Cut into big spoonfuls for serving.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups refried beans (store-bought or home)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole (or mashed ripe avocados with salt and lime)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or hot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips for serving
Directions :
- Mix the refried beans with the taco seasoning in a bowl until even.
- Spread the bean layer in a wide, shallow serving dish.
- Spread the guacamole over the beans in a smooth layer.
- In a small bowl, stir the sour cream until smooth, then spread it over the guacamole.
- Spoon the salsa over the sour cream in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the salsa.
- Add shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, olives, and green onions as the top layers.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes if you like a firmer dip, then serve with chips.
how to serve 7-layer dip
Serve the dip cold or just slightly chilled. Place tortilla chips around the dish for easy scooping. Use a shallow dish so guests can reach all layers. Serve with extra salsa and lime wedges on the side.
how to store 7-layer dip
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge up to 2 days for best texture. Fresh ingredients like tomatoes and lettuce may release water, so add them just before serving if you plan to store the dip longer.
tips to make 7-layer dip
- Use a wide, shallow dish so all layers show and are easy to scoop.
- Make guacamole fresh for best flavor. Add lime to stop browning.
- For less mess, let guests scoop with sturdy chips or small spoons.
- If you want extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or use spicy salsa.
- Layer gently so the dip looks neat and colorful.
variation (if any)
- Meaty version: Brown 1 lb ground beef with taco seasoning and use it as the bottom layer instead of refried beans.
- Bean-free: Use a layer of seasoned cream cheese or bean dip made from black beans.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free sour cream and vegan cheese to make it vegan.
- Layer swaps: Add roasted corn, diced red onion, or pickled peppers for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make most layers ahead, but add lettuce and tomatoes just before serving to keep them fresh.
Q: How long will it last in the fridge?
A: It lasts up to 2 days, but it tastes best the same day. Fresh toppings may get soggy later.
Q: Can I bake this dip?
A: This is a cold dip. You can warm a layer like seasoned beef or cheese, but the classic 7-layer dip is served cold.
Q: Is this dip gluten-free?
A: The dip itself is usually gluten-free. Check the taco seasoning and chips to be sure they are labeled gluten-free.
7-Layer Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and creamy 7-layer dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Quick to prepare and deliciously refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups refried beans
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole (or mashed ripe avocados with salt and lime)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Mix the refried beans with taco seasoning in a bowl until even.
- Spread the bean layer in a wide, shallow serving dish.
- Spread the guacamole over the beans in a smooth layer.
- Stir sour cream until smooth, then spread it over the guacamole.
- Spoon the salsa over the sour cream in an even layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the salsa.
- Add shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, olives, and green onions as the top layers.
- Chill for 15-30 minutes if you prefer a firmer dip, then serve with chips.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh guacamole. You can also customize your dip with additional ingredients like jalapeños or diced onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
7-Layer Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and creamy 7-layer dip that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Quick to prepare and deliciously refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups refried beans
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole (or mashed ripe avocados with salt and lime)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Mix the refried beans with taco seasoning in a bowl until even.
- Spread the bean layer in a wide, shallow serving dish.
- Spread the guacamole over the beans in a smooth layer.
- Stir sour cream until smooth, then spread it over the guacamole.
- Spoon the salsa over the sour cream in an even layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the salsa.
- Add shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, olives, and green onions as the top layers.
- Chill for 15–30 minutes if you prefer a firmer dip, then serve with chips.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh guacamole. You can also customize your dip with additional ingredients like jalapeños or diced onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
