Dessert

7 Layer Dip Recipe

BySana Jeannette January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

Introduction

This classic 7 Layer Dip is a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties and gatherings. Featuring layers of beans, creamy guacamole, tangy sour cream, and fresh toppings, it’s both flavorful and easy to assemble.

A white dish filled with a layered dip showing five visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark brown refried beans, topped by a green guacamole layer, followed by a thick layer of white sour cream. On top of the sour cream is a sprinkling of orange shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a generous spread of diced red tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions. A woman's hand with red nail polish is holding a yellow tortilla chip scooping some dip, showing all the layers and toppings clearly. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 16 oz can refried beans (or 2 cups homemade)
1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles

1 to 2 tbsp taco seasoning
3 medium avocados

1 lime (juiced, about 1 1/2 tbsp)
1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)

1 tsp garlic salt
1 1/2 cups sour cream
2 cups cheddar cheese (finely shredded)

1/3 cup black olives (sliced)
3/4 cup Roma tomatoes (diced)
1/3 cup green onions (sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the refried beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and taco seasoning. Whisk until well blended, then spread this mixture evenly in a 7″x11″ casserole dish.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, mash the avocados with lime juice, chopped cilantro, and garlic salt until you reach your desired consistency. Spread this guacamole mixture evenly over the bean layer.
Step 3: Stir the sour cream until smooth and spread an even layer over the guacamole.

Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sour cream. Then top with diced Roma tomatoes, sliced black olives, and sliced green onions.
Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, add jalapeño slices to the top layer or mix hot sauce into the guacamole.

Substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter dip.
Use homemade refried beans for a fresher taste and control over seasoning.
If preparing ahead, keep the tomatoes and olives separate until just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Storage

Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, especially the guacamole layer, press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Stir gently before serving if layers begin to separate.

How to Serve

The image shows a layered dip in a white round dish, with a white marbled surface background. The dip has four visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark brown refried bean layer with a smooth texture, above it is a green guacamole layer with a slightly chunky texture, the third layer is a thicker white sour cream spread, and the top layer is covered with shredded orange cheddar cheese, diced red tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions scattered evenly. The dip has a missing section where some has been scooped out, showing the layers clearly. Yellow tortilla chips are sitting near the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make 7 Layer Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip a few hours in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated to preserve freshness. For best texture, add fresh toppings like tomatoes and olives just before serving.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, pita wedges, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers for dipping.

Sana Jeannette