This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Seven-layer dip is a colorful, Tex-Mex-inspired appetizer featuring layers of refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, fresh tomatoes, and sliced black olives. It’s popular because it’s easy to make, makes a stunning presentation, is delicious, and always a hit at parties or game-day gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl watch party or a casual family get-together, a classic 7 layer dip is guaranteed to impress.
Welcome to Super Bowl Week! I have shared this many times here on Modern Honey but we are huge sports fans in our home. It all started with growing up with 5 brothers and a sports crazed Dad so it is “my normal.” A fun fact about me is that my big dream in life was to be a sportscaster Hannah Storm. I became a food blogger instead which has been even better!
So, we take the Super Bowl pretty seriously since it combines three favorites — FOOD, SPORTS, and FAMILY and FRIENDS. This Seven Layer Dip recipe is such an OG appetizer recipe and has been around for ages.
But let me honest with you…sometimes 7-layer dip can be a little bland. You have all of these phenomenal ingredients together and yet something is missing. So, I aimed to create a more FLAVORFUL 7-LAYER DIP RECIPE with a few tips on how to create more craveworthy layers.
Why you will love easy 7-Layer Dip:
It has so much flavor! Each layer brings its own texture and taste. The creamy beans contrast nicely with tangy sour cream, and fresh tomatoes balance the richness of guacamole. I share tips below on how to add even more flavor.
It is easy to throw together! You can assemble it in about 15 minutes with mostly store-bought ingredients or opt for homemade. Either way, it is a simple appetizer recipe.
It is such a crowd-pleaser! It’s universally loved and pairs well with tortilla chips and is easy to snack on. The colorful, vibrant layers looks not only beautiful but it tastes amazing too.
Ingredients:
What do you need to make a homemade seven layer dip? Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:
- Refried Beans: I like to use spicy jalapeno refried beans for the extra flavor.
- Guacamole: Store-bought or homemade (about 1 1/2 to 2 cups). Add extra fresh lime juice to prevent browning.
- Sour Cream: I like to add in taco seasoning to add more flavor to the sour cream.
- Salsa: Chunky or smooth, whichever you prefer. You can use a pico de Gallo or medium salsa.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Fresh Toppings: Diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions.
The black olives are optional but even if I use salsa in one of the layers, I still like to top with fresh tomatoes and green onions.
How to make 7 Layer Dip more flavorful:
Refried Beans: Use spicy jalapeno refried beans or stir in a spoonful of salsa, hot sauce, or taco seasoning before layering.
Sour Cream: Mix in a packet of taco seasoning for extra zest or a squeeze of lime juice or minced cilantro.
Guacamole: If using store-bought, add a splash of lime juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, or minced jalapeño for extra heat.
Salsa: Instead of just adding tomatoes, add a layer of fresh salsa or store-bought salsa for extra flavor.
How to make Homemade 7 Layer Dip:
This is such an easy 7 layer dip recipe and is perfect for a party dip.
- Refried Beans: Option to Warm or Not: Some people like to gently heat the beans before layering for easier spreading and a slightly warm dip. Others keep them at room temperature for a chilled appetizer. It’s your choice! 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.
- Guacamole: 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.
- Seasoned Sour Cream: Mix sour cream with taco seasoning for more zest. You could also add a bit of lime juice or chopped cilantro. Spread on top of the guacamole.
- Salsa: 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.
- Shredded Cheese: A mild to medium cheddar or Mexican blend cheese works well. You can use pepper Jack if you like a spicy kick.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness and color. I suggest using roma tomatoes since they have less seeds. Drain off any excess juice so the dip doesn’t get watery.
- Black Olives & Green Onions: Top it all off with sliced black olives for a savory, briny bite and chopped green onions for fresh, zesty flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):
1. 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!
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. What Are the Best Chips to Serve With It?
Sturdy tortilla chips are traditional and help scoop up those thick layers. You can also serve it with pita chips or veggie sticks (like cucumber or bell peppers).
5. Can I Make 7 Layer Mexican Dip in Individual Cups?
Absolutely! Layer the dip in small clear cups or mason jars for personalized servings – perfect for parties or events where you want to avoid double-dipping.
What should I serve Seven Layer Dip in?
Glass Baking Dish: A 9×13-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.
More Dip Recipes:
Pin this now to find it later
Pin It
7 Layer Dip Recipe
Ingredients
Beans Layer:
- (2) 15-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 Jalapeno (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) 2.25 ounce can Black Olives (drained)
- Tortilla Chips
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Shredded Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the cheese all over the top of the salsa layer.
- 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.
- Green Onions and Black Olives (optional): Top it all off with sliced black olives and chopped green onions.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Glass Baking Dish: A 9×13-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! 2. 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. 3. 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
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
