Seven Layer Dip
Seven Layer Dip is a classic party favorite that’s loaded with all the good stuff—refried beans, creamy guacamole, tangy salsa, cool sour cream, melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and sliced olives,…
Tip: save now, read later.
Seven Layer Dip is a classic party favorite that’s loaded with all the good stuff—refried beans, creamy guacamole, tangy salsa, cool sour cream, melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and sliced olives, all layered perfectly in one dish. It’s colorful, flavorful, and instantly makes any gathering feel more fun and festive.
I always love making this dip because it’s super simple to put together, yet it looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. My favorite part is digging through the different layers with some crunchy tortilla chips and getting a little bit of everything in each bite. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone always asks for the recipe!
One tip I have is to prepare the layers ahead of time and let the dip chill in the fridge for a bit before serving—that way, all the flavors get to mingle and taste even better. Whether you’re watching the game, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving a tasty snack, Seven Layer Dip is always a hit that brings people together around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Refried Beans: These are the base and add creaminess with a hearty texture. If unavailable, mashed black beans or pinto beans work well. For a healthier twist, try no-oil or low-sodium versions.
Avocado & Lime Juice: Fresh avocado mashed with lime makes a simple guacamole layer. No cilantro? Just leave it out or swap with chopped parsley. You can also use store-bought guacamole to save time.
Sour Cream & Cream Cheese: These make the creamy, tangy middle layer. Greek yogurt is a good low-fat substitute for sour cream. You can also soften cream cheese by microwaving for 10 seconds to mix easily.
Salsa: Adds flavor and a bit of spice. Choose mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your spice preference. If salsa isn’t your thing, a mix of chopped tomatoes and onions can work too.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for variety. Shredding your own cheese often melts better.
Fresh Veggies (Lettuce, Tomatoes, Green Onions): These add crunch and freshness. You can swap iceberg lettuce for romaine or omit lettuce if you prefer a softer bite. Cherry tomatoes sliced in half also work well.
Black Olives: Their briny flavor complements the dip. If you don’t like black olives, sliced green olives or jalapeño slices add a nice twist.
How Do You Layer Seven Layer Dip for the Best Flavor and Look?
Layering carefully is key for both flavor and presentation. Use a clear glass dish to showcase the colorful layers, and spread each layer evenly.
- Start with the beans in an even layer so they support the rest without sliding.
- Spread the sour cream and cream cheese mix gently to avoid mixing layers.
- For the guacamole layer, smooth it out but don’t press too hard.
- Layer salsa, olives, cheese, lettuce, and veggies evenly to retain color contrast.
- Chilling the dip for at least an hour helps layers set and flavors blend.
Don’t rush—taking your time to spread each layer cleanly makes the dip look inviting and tasting all the layers together more enjoyable. Serve it cold with crispy tortilla chips for the perfect snack!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch glass baking dish – I like this size to show off the colorful layers clearly.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a couple to mix the bean layer and the creamy layer separately.
- Spoon or spatula – perfect for spreading each layer evenly without mixing.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop tomatoes, green onions, and olives fresh.
- Fork or potato masher – great for mashing the avocado smoothly for the guacamole layer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the bean layer for extra protein and a heartier dip.
- Swap cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a bit of spicy kick that livens up the dip.
- Mix in corn kernels or black beans with the salsa layer for added texture and sweetness.
- For a fresher twist, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top if you like more heat.
Seven Layer Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for guacamole)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Time Needed
This dip takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and assemble. You’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the layers set nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bean Layer:
Mix the refried beans with half of the taco seasoning packet in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×9 inch clear glass dish.
2. Make the Creamy Layer:
In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and the remaining taco seasoning. Mix until smooth, then spread evenly over the bean layer.
3. Add the Guacamole Layer:
Mash the ripe avocado with lime juice and cilantro (if using). Spread this fresh guacamole evenly over the creamy sour cream layer.
4. Layer the Remaining Ingredients:
Spoon salsa over the guacamole and spread evenly. Then sprinkle sliced black olives on top. Follow with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese and an even layer of shredded lettuce.
5. Finish with Fresh Veggies:
Top the dip with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve chilled with plenty of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy!
Can I Make Seven Layer Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip and assemble all the layers, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The flavors will meld nicely, making it even more delicious when served chilled.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or blend some cottage cheese until smooth as a substitute. Just keep in mind the texture and taste might be slightly different.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if the layers separate a bit, and use fresh chips to keep it crunchy.
Can I Add Protein to the Dip?
Absolutely! Cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans mixed into the refried bean layer add a tasty protein boost for a heartier dip.
