Seven-Layer Tex-Mex Dip

The first time I brought this seven-layer dip to a Super Bowl party, I watched it disappear in under fifteen minutes. My friend Sarah actually asked for the recipe before she even finished her first chip, and now it's become our go-to for everything from casual game nights to holiday gatherings.

I learned the hard way that watery salsa ruins everything, so now I always drain it in a sieve for ten minutes first. That tiny extra step keeps each layer distinct and prevents that sad, soggy bottom layer that nobody wants to scoop up.

Ingredients

• Refried beans: The foundation of the whole dip, mixed with taco seasoning for extra depth
• Avocados: Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure, with no dark spots
• Lime juice: Keeps the guacamole bright green and adds fresh zing
• Sour cream: Creates that cool, creamy middle layer everyone loves
• Chunky salsa: Drain it well or your dip will turn into a soup
• Shredded cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mild Monterey Jack hits all the right notes
• Black olives: Salty little pops that balance all the rich layers
• Iceberg lettuce: Adds essential crunch and freshness to the top
• Green onions: Mild onion flavor and pretty color for the finish

Instructions

Prep the bean base:

Mix refried beans with taco seasoning in a medium bowl until smooth and well combined. Spread evenly across the bottom of your 9x13-inch dish using the back of a spoon.

Make fresh guacamole:

Mash avocados with lime juice and salt until chunky smooth, then fold in diced red onion and tomato. Gently spread this over the beans without mixing the layers.

Add creamy layers:

Spread sour cream in an even layer over the guacamole, then top with well-drained salsa, keeping each section distinct.

Cheese and finish:

Sprinkle both cheeses evenly across the top, then add black olives, shredded lettuce, and green onions. Refrigerate at least one hour before serving with plenty of crispy tortilla chips.

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Last New Year's Eve, I made a triple batch because our party kept growing. Watching three generations gather around the dip bowl, chips in hand, made me realize this recipe is about bringing people together as much as it is about the food itself.

Make Ahead Magic

This dip actually tastes better after it hangs out in the fridge for a few hours. I like to assemble it in the morning and let it chill until party time, which frees me up to handle other last-minute prep work.

Customization Ideas

Sometimes I swap Greek yogurt for sour cream when I want to feel slightly virtuous, or add pickled jalapeños for people who like extra heat. A layer of diced red bell peppers adds beautiful color and sweetness that balances all the savory elements.

Serving Success

Set out sturdy chips that can handle the weight of all those layers without breaking. I learned to provide small spoons alongside the chips because some guests prefer to scoop more delicately, and nobody wants a chip disaster in the middle of a conversation.

• Put the dip in the center of your snack table so guests can reach from all sides
• Keep a backup bag of chips nearby because they always run out first
• Cover and refrigerate any leftovers, though they rarely survive the night

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This dip has become my signature contribution to any gathering, and there is something deeply satisfying about watching a room full of people discover it layer by delicious layer.

Recipe Questions

→ How far in advance can I make this?

For best results, assemble 2-4 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld while keeping layers distinct. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

→ What substitutions work well?

Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter version. Add jalapeños or diced bell peppers for extra heat and color. Use plant-based cheese and dairy-free sour cream for vegan options.

→ Why drain the salsa?

Draining excess liquid from salsa prevents the layers from becoming watery and maintains clean separation between each colorful tier.

→ What size dish works best?

A shallow 9x13-inch dish provides ideal surface area for even layering. The shallow depth ensures each layer remains distinct and easy to scoop.

→ How do I prevent layers from mixing?

Spread each ingredient gently and evenly without pressing down. Add layers one at a time, working from the bottom up, and refrigerate before serving to set the structure.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply serve with certified gluten-free tortilla chips. The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.