Authentic 7-Layer Mexican Dip

This authentic 7-layer Mexican dip is the perfect party appetizer: colorful, creamy, and loaded with Tex-Mex flavor in every scoop. You get layers of refried beans, zesty seasoned sour cream, fresh garlicky guacamole, and all your favorite toppings like cheese, tomatoes, olives, and green onions. It’s served cold, so you can make it ahead and just pull it out when guests arrive. Pair it with a big bowl of tortilla chips and watch it disappear fast. It’s also easy to tweak—spicy, mild, extra cheesy—so everyone gets a dip they love.

Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix
• 2 avocados, pitted, peeled, and mashed
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
• 4 green onions, diced
• ½ cup sliced black olives
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Spread the refried beans in an even layer in the bottom of a 9- or 10-inch clear dish or pie plate.
2. In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the taco seasoning until smooth and well combined.
3. Gently spread the seasoned sour cream over the bean layer.
4. In a separate bowl, mash the avocados with the lemon juice and minced garlic until mostly smooth.
5. Carefully spread the avocado mixture (guacamole layer) over the sour cream.
6. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the guacamole.
7. Top with the sliced black olives, diced Roma tomatoes, and diced green onions.
8. Chill for at least 30 minutes, then serve cold with tortilla chips.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: ~260 kcal | Servings: 10

Tips

For the best texture and flavor, use very ripe avocados and season your guacamole to taste—add a pinch of salt if needed so the layer doesn’t taste flat under all the toppings.

Assemble the dip in a clear dish so you can see all the layers, then cover and refrigerate up to 4–6 hours before serving; store leftovers covered in the fridge and enjoy within 1–2 days for the freshest taste.

FAQ

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it several hours ahead; just cover tightly and refrigerate. The lemon juice helps keep the avocado from browning.

What kind of dish should I use?
A 9- or 10-inch clear glass pie dish or shallow baking dish works well so the layers are visible and easy to scoop.

Can I add more layers or toppings?
Definitely—add pickled jalapeños, salsa, shredded lettuce, or a Mexican cheese blend if you like more texture and flavor.

Can I use guacamole instead of mashing avocados?
Yes, you can swap in your favorite prepared guacamole to save time; just spread it as the avocado layer.

What should I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips are classic, but it’s also great with veggie sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers) or on top of nachos or tacos.