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5.0 from 6 votes

7 Layer Dip Recipe

This popular appetizer dip has layers of refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, fresh tomatoes, and sliced black olives. It is a hit at parties or get togethers.

Prep Time
20 mins
Servings: 16
Calories: 151 kcal
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Beans Layer:
  • (2) ounce cans Refried Beans * (I suggest spicy jalapeno)
  • hot sauce (optional)
Homemade Guacamole Layer (or store-bought):
  • 3 to 4 medium avocados
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 Jalapeño (finely minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
Sour Cream Layer:
  • 1 1/2 cups sour cream
  • 2 to 3 Tablespoons taco seasoning
Salsa Layer:
  • 1 1/2 cups Favorite Salsa (chunky, mild, or hot)
Cheese Layer:
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar or Mexican Cheese Blend
Toppings:
  • 2 to 3 roma tomatoes (chopped)
  • 3 green onions (sliced)
  • (1) .25 ounce can black olives (drained)
  • tortilla chips

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Refried Beans Layer: Spread the refried beans on the bottom of your dish of choice (see suggestions below). I do suggest stirring the refried beans together in a bowl to make it easier to spread. I like to add some hot sauce to the refried beans. You can warm the refried beans or use them straight from the can.
  2. Guacamole Layer: Add all ingredients into a bowl and mash until chunky and mixed together. Add more salt, if needed. If using store-bought, taste it first. You might want to add a little lime juice, salt, or chopped cilantro for extra zing. Spread on top of the refried beans.
  3. Seasoned Sour Cream Layer: In a bowl, mix sour cream with taco seasoning. You could also add a bit of lime juice or chopped cilantro. Spread on top of the guacamole.
  4. Salsa Layer: Spread your favorite salsa on top of the sour cream. If you prefer a less watery dip, choose a thick, chunky salsa or pico de gallo.
  5. Shredded Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the cheese all over the top of the salsa layer.
  6. Diced Tomatoes Layer: I suggest using roma tomatoes since they have less seeds. Drain off any excess juice so the dip doesn’t get watery.
  7. Green Onions and Black Olives (optional): Top it all off with sliced black olives and chopped green onions.
  8. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • What should I serve Seven Layer Dip in?
  • Glass Baking Dish: A 9x13-inch dish allows the layers to be visible.
  • Shallow, Wide Bowl: This shape makes it easy for everyone to scoop out every delicious layer. I found a shallow glass bowl on Amazon.
  • Trifle Bowl: For a wow factor, use a clear trifle bowl or large glass serving bowl to display each colorful layer.
  • Individual Cups or Jars: Great for portion control and prevents the dreaded “dip mix-up” from too many spoons or chips.
  • Should I Warm the Beans?
  • It’s entirely up to you. Some prefer the beans heated so the dip has a slightly warm base. However, 7 Layer Dip is often served chilled or at room temperature. Both methods taste great!
  • How Long Does 7 Layer Dip Last?
  • It’s best eaten the same day for maximum freshness, especially if you’re using fresh guacamole. You can keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the layers (especially the guacamole) may begin to brown or get watery. I like to add extra fresh lime juice to the guacamole to keep it from turning brown.
  • Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
  • Yes, you can assemble most layers a few hours ahead. Consider adding guacamole and fresh toppings (tomatoes, olives, onions) closer to serving time to maintain freshness and color.

Nutrition Information

Calories 151kcal (8%) Carbohydrates 6g (2%) Protein 5g (10%) Fat 13g (20%) Saturated Fat 5g (25%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g Monounsaturated Fat 5g Cholesterol 22mg (7%) Sodium 213mg (9%) Potassium 266mg (8%) Fiber 3g (12%) Sugar 1g (2%) Vitamin A 392IU (8%) Vitamin C 6mg (7%) Calcium 138mg (14%) Iron 0.3mg (2%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 16Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 151

% Daily Value*

Calories 151kcal 8%
Carbohydrates 6g 2%
Protein 5g 10%
Fat 13g 20%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 22mg 7%
Sodium 213mg 9%
Potassium 266mg 6%
Fiber 3g 12%
Sugar 1g 2%
Vitamin A 392IU 8%
Vitamin C 6mg 7%
Calcium 138mg 14%
Iron 0.3mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.