Seven Layer Tex-Mex Dip (Printable version)

A vibrant Tex-Mex dish with seven flavorful layers served chilled with crispy tortilla chips.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 (15 oz) can refried beans
02 - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

→ Guacamole Layer

03 - 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
04 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 cup diced red onion
07 - 1 small tomato, seeded and diced

→ Sour Cream Layer

08 - 1 cup sour cream

→ Salsa Layer

09 - 1 cup chunky salsa, drained

→ Cheese Layer

10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ Toppings

12 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
13 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
14 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions

→ For Serving

15 - Tortilla chips

# How-To Steps:

01 - Combine refried beans with taco seasoning in a medium bowl and spread evenly in the bottom of a 9x13-inch serving dish.
02 - Mash avocados with lime juice, salt, diced red onion, and tomato until combined, then spread over the bean layer.
03 - Evenly spread sour cream over the guacamole layer.
04 - Top the sour cream with well-drained chunky salsa without mixing the layers.
05 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the salsa.
06 - Distribute the sliced black olives evenly on top of the cheese layer.
07 - Sprinkle shredded iceberg lettuce and chopped green onions as the final layers.
08 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • This is the ultimate make-ahead appetizer that actually tastes better after chilling, giving you zero stress right before guests arrive
  • Every layer brings something different to the party, from creamy to tangy to fresh, so every chip feels like a complete meal
02 -
  • The most common mistake is skipping the salsa draining step, which turns your beautiful layered dip into a watery mess within an hour
  • Assemble this at least an hour before serving because the layers need time to meld together and chill for the cleanest presentation when people start digging in
03 -
  • Use room temperature ingredients for easier spreading, especially the refried beans and sour cream
  • Layer the ingredients in a clear trifle bowl instead of a rectangular dish for an even more stunning presentation at parties
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