We love easy dip recipes like Cowboy Caviar and Spinach and Artichoke Dip. They are quick to whip up and make hosting a breeze. If you are entertaining this season, this 7-Layer Dip is a must-try! This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
7-Layer Dip Recipe
Seven Layer Dip is a very literal name for this dish because that’s just what it is… Seven layers of ingredients (plus some garnish) layered in a 9×13-inch pan. Together they create this simple, Mexican-inspired appetizer that is perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
The key to making a great 7-Layer Dip is really in using the freshest ingredients. While everything can be purchased pre-packaged in a pinch, the taste and presentation are so much better with fresh ingredients.
Refried Beans – the base layer, use your favorite refried beans and season them for extra flavor. Guacamole – Prepared guacamole is a quick option, but for the best flavor, try our Homemade Guacamole. Sour Cream – provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Shredded Cheese – Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese are our favorites. Roma Tomatoes – We prefer chopped tomatoes to salsa because there is less liquid, and the brighter color helps to make the layer more defined. Green Onions – provide a fresh and mild onion flavor, with a pop of color. Taco Seasoning – Our simple homemade seasoning easily transforms plain ingredients into a familiar Tex-Mex flavor profile. We mix the seasoning into the sour cream and the refried beans. Cilantro – a bright, fresh, and aromatic garnish. Black Olives – a classic layer for this dip.
What are the Best Canned Refried Beans?
There are so many brands to choose from. According to AllRecipes, la Preferida’s authentic version is the best one. According to The Daring Kitchen, it’s Rosarita’s Traditional version. I found a nice organic one at my grocery store, but just about any brand will work here.
How to Make 7-Layer Dip
The only prep work required here is to mix the beans with half of the taco seasoning and stir the other half right into the sour cream container (which means fewer dishes to wash!). I also like to prep Homemade Guacamole, but you can use storebought as well and save a step.
Cooked ground beef (we use this in our Taco Salad Dip) Corn Greek yogurt Diced bell peppers Homemade Salsa (drain any excess liquid to keep the dip from getting soggy) Black beans Jalapeños
Heat the refried beans to make them easier to spread. Stir in half of the Taco Seasoning. Spread the beans into the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish. Spread the Guacamole over the layer of beans. Sour Cream – In a second small bowl, stir the remaining half of the taco seasoning and sour cream together. Spread the sour cream mixture over the guacamole layer. Add Toppings and Garnish – Sprinkle on the cheese then add tomatoes, drained black olives, green onions, and cilantro on top. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
How to Serve Seven-Layer Dip
We like to prepare this dish in a glass pan to showcase each layer. Depending on your event, you can serve this Seven Layer Dip in a variety of ways from individual clear cups for smaller gatherings to large aluminum pans for big parties. Tortilla chips are the classic choice for dipping, but you can also use:
Scoops Pita chips Corn chips or Fritos Sliced peppers Potato chips
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a flavorful and satisfying appetizer, this 7-Layer Dip is sure to be a hit. With its vibrant layers and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish for people to gather around and keep them coming back for more. So grab your favorite dippers and let the fiesta begin! Storing Leftovers – Return any leftovers to the refrigerator and cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Seven Layer Dip will keep for up to three days. If you notice excess moisture, drain the liquid or gently pat the top layers with a paper towel to absorb any excess liquid. It doesn’t look as pretty on day three, but I assure you it tastes amazing!
More Cinco de Mayo Recipes
If you love this 7-Layer Dip, then you won’t want to miss these other Cinco de Mayo recipes. We love re-creating our favorite Mexican-inspired dishes and hope you will love them as much as we do.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn) Ceviche Pico de Gallo Fish Tacos Chicken Fajitas Flan
