BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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This 7 layer dip has layers of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, beans, cheese, tomatoes and olives. The best party appetizer for game day or a holiday party.

Love appetizers? Some other crowd favorites are my crockpot buffalo chicken dip, pigs in a blanket and my 4-ingredient cheese ball.

BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Table of Contents

  • Favorite Party Appetizer
  • What’s In 7 Layer Dip?
  • How to Make 7 Layer Dip
  • Tips + Variations
  • 5 star review
  • Serving Ideas
  • FAQs
  • More Delicious Party Dips
  • 7 Layer Dip Recipe Printable Recipe

Favorite Party Appetizer

This seven layer dip is a delicious Mexican appetizer that’s so easy to put together! This easy recipe is the ultimate party appetizer.

If you want to take this dip up a level, you can make your own guacamole, salsa and homemade tortilla chips for dipping. And when I don’t feel like making layers I make easy taco dip instead.

What’s In 7 Layer Dip?

BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find the fullprintable recipewith specific measurements below.

  • Refried beans: The first layer is a mixture of beans, cream cheese and taco seasoning.
  • Sour cream: All you need is plain sour cream for the second layer.
  • Guacamole: You can make your own homemade guacamole or buy premade guac from the store.
  • Salsa: Chunky salsa works best. Make sure to drain any liquid before adding.
  • Cheese: Shredded Mexican, pepper jack, or cheddar cheese work great.
  • Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes and drain any juices. I use roma tomatoes.
  • Olives: I love adding sliced black olives along with some chopped green onions. Olives are hit or miss for most people, so you could always leave them off if preferred. Or do half with, half without.

How to Make 7 Layer Dip

This recipe is SO easy to make and comes together super quickly. Layer the ingredients as follows below.

BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (4)
  1. Layer 1: Combine the refried beans, cream cheese and taco seasoning. Layer the refried bean mixture on the bottom.
  2. Layer 2: Next layer the sour cream over top.
  3. Layer 3: Scoop the guacamole on top. Then careful spread with a spatula.
  4. Layer 4: Drain the salsa if needed in a mesh strainer. Then add the salsa on top.
  5. Layer 5: Add some shredded cheese.
  6. Layer 6: Then add your favorite toppings such as tomatoes, olives and jalapenos,
  7. Layer 7: Finish the top with sliced green onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime. I also love to sprinkle some flake sea salt over the top.
BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (5)

Tips + Variations

  • Use thick salsa. I like the Trader Joe’s brand thick ‘n chunky. Make sure to pour out any extra liquid before adding so the dip doesn’t get runny.
  • Add meat. You can add ground beef taco meat as an extra layer if preferred. Add it between the refried beans and sour cream layers.
  • Seasoning. Add a Tablespoon or ranch seasoning mix to the sour cream layer for extra flavor.
  • Tomatoes. Can substitute salsa layer with more chopped tomatoes if preferred. Or use pico de gallo for either of those two layers.
  • Use less layers. For a few less layers, try making a 5 layer dip instead.

5 star review

“This was the best! Brought it to a huge super bowl potluck where there were 7 7-layer dips. Everyone told me this one was the best.”

-M

Serving Ideas

  • Baking dish: This is my favorite method because the dip gets more spread out. You get more of the toppings in every bite! Use a 9×13″ baking dish.
  • Trifle: Layer the dip in a trifle bowl for a fancier touch (check out the picture below the recipe). I also added a fun chalkboard label to the front of the dish.
  • Individual cups: Make individual 7 layer dip cups by servings in plastic cups. This is a fun way to make sure everyone gets a bite and there’s no double dipping!

FAQs

Can I make 7 layer dip ahead of time?

This dip tastes best if made day of, so preparing a few hours in advance should be fine.

To save time, you can prepare and assemble the bean and sour cream layers the night before and then cover and refrigerate. Then add the remaining layers right before serving.

Is this dip served warm or cold?

This dip is traditionally served cold. This way the shredded lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole and sour cream stay fresh. Try crowd favorites jalapeno popper dip recipe or this bean dip if you want something warm!

Is 7 layer dip gluten-free?

Yes, this dip uses gluten-free ingredients, which makes it perfect for guests with any sensitivities. Just make sure to double check that the taco seasoning packet is free from gluten or make my homemade taco seasoning which is most definitely gluten-free!

How long does 7 layer dip last?

Although this 7 layer dip does taste best the day of preparing, any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure to cover tightly.
It does tend to get a bit watery as time goes on, but you can easily drain it and it will still taste delicious!

BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (6)

More Delicious Party Dips

  • 5-Layer Greek Dip
  • Crockpot Queso Blanco
  • Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip
  • Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
  • Cream Cheese and Chili Queso

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BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (7)

7 Layer Dip Recipe

5 from 166 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

This 7 layer dip has layers of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, beans, cheese, tomatoes and olives. The best party appetizer for game day or a holiday party.

Prep Time: 20 minutes mins

Total Time: 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12

PrintRatePin

Video

Ingredients

  • 31 ounce can refried beans
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened, optional)
  • 3 Tablespoons taco seasoning (1 packet)
  • 14 ounces sour cream , about 1 1/2 cups
  • 16 ounces guacamole
  • 1 ½ cups chunky mediumsalsa (can sub for more diced tomatoes)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 roma tomatoes (diced and drained of juices)
  • 4 ounces sliced olives or jalapenos (1 can, drained)
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1 bunch green onions (sliced thin, optional)
  • ½ lime (optional)
  • s&p to taste

For serving: Tortilla chips or Fritos

    Instructions

    • In a small bowl, stir together beans, cream cheese (if desired) and taco seasoning. I like to microwave the cream cheese for about 20 seconds beforehand, to make sure it’s smooth and creamy.

    • Then spread the beans onto the bottom of your dish. You can use a 9×13" pan, trifle dish or serve in individual cups.Next spread on the sour cream and guacamole.

    • Next add the salsa or extra tomatoes on top of guacamole.Then add the cheese, tomatoes, olives, onions and cilantro. Squeeze a little lime juice over the top if desired. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top.

    • Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The dip is best to eatthe day that it is made. Serve with fresh tortilla chips or Fritos.

    Notes

    Variation:

    • Alternatively you can mix the cream cheese and taco seasoning in with the sour cream.
    • You could also add in a Tablespoon of extra taco seasoning or even ranch seasoning mix to the sour cream if you want to add more seasoning.

    Salsa: Do not use a thin salsa, it will make the whole dip runny. If the salsa has liquid, pour it through a mesh strainer. Alternatively you can skip the salsa and add extra tomatoes or pico de gallo. .

    Make ahead: If you are wanting to make ahead of time, I would do the bean and sour cream layer and refrigerate. Then add the guacamole, salsa and toppings right before the event, so it stays fresh.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 297kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 949mg | Potassium: 318mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1120IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 155mg | Iron: 1.4mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Appetizer

    Cuisine: Mexican

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    Categorized as: Appetizers, Cinco De Mayo, Dips, Mexican, Reader Favorites, Super Bowl, Vegetarian

    BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (8)

    Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

    More about Jamielyn Nye

    Add a comment

    101 comments

      • Sherri
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (9)

      Made this for a July 4th party and it was a hit!! It’s going to be my go-to now! Fresh pico was spot on!!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        That is great to hear! I am so glad that everyone loved your dip. Thanks for sharing!

        • Reply
      • Natasha
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (10)

      This is an awesome party appetizer. It was a huge hit with my family and friends! Another winning recipe from you!

      • Reply
      • Barbara T
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (11)

      My go-to recipe for parties! It’s always a crowd pleaser! SO easy to make too.

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        So glad you enjoyed the 7 layer dip!

        • Reply
      • April
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (12)

      This is one of my favorite dips! We love making it for movie night – so good!

      • Reply
      • cyntony
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (13)

      Very good for parties

      • Reply
      • Elena’s
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (14)

      Great recipe! Easy to make and delicious. Made it for friend’s party and everyone loved it.

      • Reply
      • Gen
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (15)

      I looove a good 7-layer dip. This one is fantastic! Bookmarking for parties this year.

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        Me too! One of our go-to party appetizers!

        • Reply
      • Jenna
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (16)

      My family loved this dip! I left out the olives because we don’t really like them and it was delicious. I’ll definitely be making this recipe again.

      • Reply
      • Natasha
      • BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (17)

      This 7 layer dip was a huge hit! My whole family enjoyed this, we even made a spicy version and we loved it too!

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        Love adding pickled jalapeños if the crowd can handle spicy! Yum!

        • Reply

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    BEST 7 Layer Dip Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

    FAQs

    Will guacamole turn brown in 7 layer dip? ›

    Does guacamole turn brown in a 7-layer dip? - Quora. It can. Avocados turn brown because enzymes in the fruit react with oxygen in the air to produce melanin. While the color may not be appealing, the avocado is not spoiled and is safe to eat.

    What is 7 layer bean dip made of? ›

    What's in 7-layer dip? This party staple truly has everything we could ever want in a dip: refried beans, homemade guacamole, salsa, a sour cream-lime juice-taco seasoning mixture, and shredded cheese. While you can totally use store-bought if you're low on time, we're partial to our guacamole recipe.

    What grocery store has the best 7 layer dip? ›

    Albertsons 7 Layer Bean Dip

    Not only is this an incredible dip, but you could also slap this into a warm flour tortilla and have an instant burrito. Plus, it actually has all 7 layers—beans, guac, sour cream, shredded cheese, tomatoes, scallions, and black olives!

    What can I do with left over 7 layer dip? ›

    The most obvious choice is a quesadilla; just spread the dip onto a tortilla, mash lots of shredded cheese into the dip, fold, and fry. In fact, any of the seven layers of a seven layer dip will work in a quesadilla, so invite them all.

    What is bean dip slang for? ›

    What the heck does 'bean dip' mean? Urban Dictionary defines "bean dip" as "(flicking) a woman's (or man's) breast with the index finger." It's "dubbed 'bean dip' because the move is similar to that of scooping up bean dip," the website reads.

    Why does bean dip get watery? ›

    Dips can turn watery if food, such as chips or vegetables like carrots and celery, is being dipped directly into the container and then refrigerated and re-opened for later use.

    What is 5 layer dip made of? ›

    Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day? Try this easy recipe for a flavorful and satisfying Layer Mexican Dip. Packed with layers of refried beans, guacamole, salsa, sour cream, and topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese, this dip is a guaranteed hit.

    What is the healthiest dip to eat? ›

    15 Healthy Dips and Spreads
    1. Ranch Greek yogurt dip. Using Greek yogurt as a base for dip is an easy way to boost your snack's nutrients. ...
    2. Honey mustard. ...
    3. Lemon-herb white bean dip. ...
    4. Peanut butter fruit dip. ...
    5. Garlic avocado spread. ...
    6. Buffalo chicken dip. ...
    7. Spiced butternut squash dip. ...
    8. Southwest black bean dip.
    Dec 16, 2019

    Does Trader Joe's have layer dip? ›

    Trader Joe's five-layer dip would probably get devoured within minutes if it was served at any party and could easily be transformed into a meal by throwing it inside a tortilla or on top of some rice.

    Who invented the 7 layer dip? ›

    In 1982, Peggy Shoop, a resident of Grapevine, Texas, adapted a dish that transformed the history of party food. She took a recipe for a dip she found in Southern Living that layered sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and cheese, and added her own additions—refried beans and jalapeños. A classic was born.

    Can you freeze layered dip? ›

    Layered Bean Dip Recipe Tips and Tricks

    Divide the ingredients into several 2-cup oven safe bowls so no one has to huddle around one bowl of taco bean dip. Tip for easy meal prep: Prepare the layered bean dip recipe as directed, but don't bake. Instead, wrap oven-safe dishes in aluminum foil and freeze.

    How long can 7 layer dip be left out? ›

    7 layer dip can be left out for up to three hours. However, it's always best to cover dip in plastic wrap and refrigerate it as soon as you're done eating it.

    What can I do with left over dips? ›

    Mac and Cheese

    This is the easiest, most straightforward use for cheesy dips: Boil pasta, stir in leftover dip, thin with pasta water as needed. Done. (If you want to bypass the dip and head straight for the mac, here's your recipe.)

    Is there a way to keep guacamole from turning brown? ›

    How to keep Guacamole from turning brown
    1. Pat the guacamole down to give it a flat surface.
    2. Pour a thin but visible layer of water or lemon/lime juice over the guacamole to form a barrier with the air.

    How far ahead can you make guacamole without it turning brown? ›

    The day after you make it, the guacamole will be as green as when you put it in the fridge. You can use this technique to keep guacamole green for up to two days. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap when you store it so you don't accidentally spill the water or set anything else in it.

    How far ahead can you make guacamole before it turns brown? ›

    Topping off your avocado dip with water keeps air, at least in part, from being able to penetrate the guacamole, which keeps it from browning. By using this simple technique, you can keep the brown at bay for about two days (maybe longer if you're lucky).

    What ingredient keeps guacamole from turning brown? ›

    Make sure water covers the surface completely—all the way to the container's edge. Editor's Tip: You may have heard a squirt of lemon or lime juice also keeps guacamole from browning. It's true—as long as you cover the entire surface of the dip with citrus juice.

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