Dessert

7 Layer Dip Recipe

BySimon Carel February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

Introduction

This classic 7 Layer Dip is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. Layers of creamy, savory, and fresh ingredients come together to create a flavorful dip that everyone will love.

A round clear glass dish holds a multi-layered dip with a missing section showing the inside layers. The bottom layer is brown and thick, likely refried beans, topped by a white creamy layer. Above that is a green layer of guacamole. The top surface is covered with shredded orange cheddar cheese, chopped red tomatoes, sliced black olives, and small pieces of green onion, all scattered evenly. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can refried beans (16 ounces)
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
3/4 cup sour cream
2 cups sharp shredded cheese
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
3/4 cup guacamole
1/3 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup black olives
3 green onions (diced)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the refried beans with the taco seasoning and mix well to blend the flavors.
Step 2: Spread the seasoned refried beans evenly in a deep dish pie pan or an 8×8 inch pan.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Spread this mixture over the bean layer.
Step 4: Evenly spread the guacamole over the cream cheese layer. Some gaps are fine; it doesn’t need to cover every area completely.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top, then add black olives, diced tomatoes, and green onions over the cheese.
Step 6: Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time helps the layers set and flavors meld together.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, add a layer of salsa or finely chopped jalapeños between layers.
Substitute the shredded cheese with a Mexican cheese blend for more authentic flavor.
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier, lighter dip.
Serve with sturdy tortilla chips to scoop all seven layers easily.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as the texture of some layers may change.

How to Serve

The dish shows a close-up view of a colorful layered dip or salad in a white bowl. The bottom layer is made of shredded orange cheddar cheese, giving a textured and soft base. On top, there are bright, fresh diced red tomatoes scattered unevenly, adding juicy, vibrant red spots. Sliced black olives are spread over the top layer, with their deep black color and shiny, smooth texture standing out against the cheese and tomatoes. Bright green rings of chopped green onions are also placed across the surface, adding fresh color and a crunchy texture contrast. The white marbled background contrasts softly with the colorful ingredients, and the image captures the vibrant colors and textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the dip a few hours ahead or the night before allows the flavors to fully develop and makes serving easier during your event.

What can I use if I don’t have refried beans?

You can use cooked and mashed pinto or black beans seasoned with taco spices as a fresh alternative to canned refried beans.

7 Layer Dip Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 58 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic 7 Layer Dip is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Featuring layers of seasoned refried beans, creamy cheese blends, guacamole, fresh vegetables, and olives, this dip offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s served chilled and pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips.

Ingredients

Scale

Bean Layer

1 can refried beans (16 ounces)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning

Cream Cheese Layer

8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
3/4 cup sour cream

Additional Layers

3/4 cup guacamole
2 cups sharp shredded cheese
1/3 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
3 green onions, diced

Instructions

Season the Beans: Pour the refried beans into a bowl and add the taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly incorporated.
Base Layer: Spread the seasoned refried beans evenly into a deep dish pie pan or an 8×8 inch baking pan, creating the first layer of the dip.
Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and then spread this mixture evenly over the beans layer.
Guacamole Layer: Spread the guacamole over the cream cheese mixture. It’s okay if the guacamole does not cover every area fully; this adds to the rustic appeal.
Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the sharp shredded cheese as the next layer. Then scatter the black olives, diced tomatoes, and diced green onions evenly over the cheese.
Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled dip and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled with your favorite tortilla chips or fresh veggies.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the bean mixture.
Use fresh guacamole for better flavor, or substitute with mashed avocados seasoned with lime and salt.
This dip can be prepared a few hours ahead, but avoid making it more than 24 hours in advance to retain freshness.
For a vegetarian version, ensure the taco seasoning is free from meat-based ingredients.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Keywords: 7 layer dip, party dip, Mexican dip, layered dip, vegetarian appetizer

Simon Carel

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