7-Layer Dip
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This isn’t just another layered dip. This is the 7-Layer Dip I’ve made since I was a teenager, and every time I bring it to a party it disappears faster than any other appetizer on the table. Classic, bold, and reliably delicious, this is the version you’ll turn to again and again.
Old Fashioned 7 Layer Taco Dip
Whether you’re hosting game day, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, this dip delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s built on time-tested combinations that work every time.
What Makes My Recipe Stand Out
- Dependable results every time — the ingredients are simple, but the layered flavors are anything but.
- Ready in minutes — no cooking, no fuss, just assembly.
- Time tested — I’ve literally made this recipe for decades and people always rave about it.
Ingredients Needed to Make This Taco Layer Dip
Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe. Scroll down to the full recipe card for the specific amounts.
- Refried beans – This creates the hearty base of the dip and gives it structure so every scoop holds together.
- Guacamole – use store-bought or make your own with my easy guacamole recipe
- Sour cream – smooth and creamy, sour cream balances the bold flavors and adds richness to every layer.
- Taco seasoning – a small amount mixed into the sour cream adds depth and seasoning throughout the dip. You can also make homemade taco seasoning.
- Salsa – choose a thick salsa to prevent the dip from becoming watery. Mild or medium both work well, depending on your preference.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar adds classic flavor and helps tie all the layers together. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes stronger.
- Diced tomato – fresh tomatoes add brightness and color. Remove excess seeds to keep the dip from getting watery.
- Black olives – these add a salty, briny bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers. This can be an optional layer because I know there are a lot of you who don’t like black olives.
- Green onions – fresh finish that adds color and a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dip.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re wanting to add a few layers or even change out a few layers, there are a lot of ingredients that you can add. Some simple suggestions are:
- Jalapeno peppers
- Dorito chips (top layer only otherwise they’ll get soggy)
- Fresh cilantro
- Chives
- Shredded Lettuce
How To Make 7-Layer Dip
Here are my step-by-step instructions so you can make this recipe with ease. For the full, printable recipe with amounts and temperatures, scroll down to the recipe card below.
7 Layer Dip Order
- Set out a 9 x 13 baking dish.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl combine sour cream and taco seasoning. Set aside.
- Layer One: Spread refried beans on the bottom of the baking dish until it’s covers the bottom.
- Layer Two: Spread guacamole on top of the refried beans layer.
- Layer Three: Spread sour cream mixture on top of guacamole.
- Layer Four: Spread salsa on top of the sour cream.
- Layer Five: Top with cheese
- Layer Six: Sprinkle with chopped tomatoes
- Layer Seven: Add sliced black olives, and scallions.
- Make use of the layers – Spread each layer evenly all the way to the edges of the dish. This ensures every scoop includes all the flavors, so each bite is balanced and complete.
- Change the layers – Feel free to change up the layers as well. I do it this way because it works best for my taste buds but you can easily make it any way that you want. I recommend laying the refried beans on the bottom since they’re sturdy hold the layers in place.)
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate – This 7-layer dip is best enjoyed the day it is made, but leftovers can be stored if needed. Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because this dip contains guacamole and fresh tomatoes, some liquid separation is normal as it sits.
- For best results, gently blot any excess moisture from the top before serving leftovers. Stirring is not recommended, as it disrupts the layers and affects texture.
- Freeze – Freezing is not recommended. The dairy and fresh ingredients do not thaw well and will become watery and grainy.
- Make Ahead – If making this dip ahead of time, assemble it no more than a few hours before serving and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make this dip ahead of time?
Yes In fact, letting it chill in the refrigerator allows the flavors to blend. This dip is supposed to be served cold so making it earlier in the day to enjoy later is a great idea.
What do you use to dip into 7 layer dip?
Tortilla chips are always popular but you can also use pita bread or anything else toasted that is a good dipper, as well as sliced vegetables.
More Easy Dip Recipes
- Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Texas Trash Dip
- Rotel Dip
- Black Bean Dip
- Crack Dip
- Beer Cheese Dip
7-Layer Dip
Ingredients
- 32 ounces refried beans
- 2 ½ cups guacamole
- 2 ½ cups sour cream
- 2 Tablespoons taco seasoning
- 16 ounces salsa
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 ½ cup tomato diced
- ¼ cup black olives sliced
- ¼ cup green onions chopped
Instructions
- Using a 9 x 13 baking dish.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine sour cream and taco seasoning. Set aside.2 ½ cups sour cream , 2 Tablespoons taco seasoning
- Spread refried beans on the bottom of the baking dish until it’s covered.32 ounces refried beans
- Next, add the guacamole.2 ½ cups guacamole
- Spread sour cream mixture on top of refried beans.
- Add salsa layer.16 ounces salsa
- Top with cheese, chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and scallions.2 cups cheddar cheese, 1 ½ cup tomato, ¼ cup black olives, ¼ cup green onions
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
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