7 Layer Dip

7 Layer Dip is a classic taco inspired dip made with layers of beans, guac, seasoned cream cheese, shredded cheese, and topped with veggies!

This simple seven layer dip recipe is quick to make and always a hit. Serve it on Taco Tuesday with other faves like baked tacos, Mexican corn salad, and a pitcher of pineapple margaritas!

7 Layer Dip

Why you’ll love this recipe!

📌 All your favorite taco flavors in one bite!📌 Tastes great AND looks great. 📌 Easy to modify for personal preferences. 

7 Layer Dip Ingredients

• Beans – Refried beans. We use refried pinto beans, but refried black beans would also be good. Canned or homemade are fine. 
• Guacamole – You’ll want to make sure you don’t expose the avocado for any longer than necessary or it may turn brown.  Try our quick guacamole recipe!
• Cream cheese – We like a full fat cream cheese for this recipe; softened. 
• Taco seasoning – Grab a packet or make your own taco seasoning!
• Cheese – Shredded cheese. We like fiesta blend in this, but cheddar is also delicious. 
• Tomatoes – Diced small. I am partial to cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. 
• Olives – Black olives, sliced. 
• Onion – Green onion, chopped or diced. 

How do you make 7 layer dip? (step-by-step directions)

⭐ First, in a large bowl with an electric mixer, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Set aside.⭐ Next, evenly spread the refried beans along the bottom of a casserole dish. Spread the guacamole evenly on top of it, then the cream cheese mixture.⭐ Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture, then the tomatoes, the olives, and finally the green onions.⭐ Finally, allow the dip to chill before serving with your favorite chips and veggies. 

Scroll down to the printable recipe card toward the bottom of this article for ingredient measurements and detailed cooking instructions. 

Preparation

Can you make it ahead of time?

For sure! I actually find the flavors blend together better when it’s made at least a few hours in advance. You can definitely make it up to a few days in ahead. Wait to add the final garnishes (olives tomatoes, and onion) until right before serving for best results. 

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Try swapping the cream cheese for sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. It won’t be as thick but it will still taste great. 

How do I make it spicy?

Add some heat with diced jalapeno, chili powder, chipotle powder, red hot sauce, spicy enchilada sauce, or sriracha. 

What else can I add to 7 layer dip?

There are so many things you can add to this delicious dip, here are a few ideas!

Veggies

• Bell pepper
• Jalapeno
• Cucumber

Herbs and spices

• Cilantro
• Red onion
• Garlic
• Chili or chipotle powder
• Hot sauce

Protein

• Seasoned ground meat
• Shredded chicken
• Chopped steak

Storage and leftovers

How long does the dip last?

This recipe will keep in the fridge for about 3 days. Make sure to check the use-by date on the cream cheese and shredded cheese and definitely don’t keep it longer than the shorter of those dates. Store in an airtight container. 

Can you freeze 7 layer dip?

We do not recommend freezing this recipe. 

Tips and tricks

Make it Meal: Adding a layer of protein like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or chopped pork and serve with chips for a fun interactive meal. Layering Order: Stick to the prescribed layering order to make sure the ingredients keep their best texture and freshness. Drain Excess Moisture: Drain any excess moisture from ingredients like tomatoes, cream cheese, and olives to prevent the dip from becoming watery. Chill Before Serving: Allow the layered dip to chill in the refrigerator for at least an 20 minutes (but an hour is better!) before serving.

What to eat with seven layer taco dip (serving suggestions)

This dish is traditionally served with corn tortilla chips, but it’s also great with homemade crackers, or sliced raw veggies like carrots, celery, and bell pepper.  Serve with other Mexican and Latin inspired dishes like black bean soup, Mexican street corn, and mango margaritas for a fun themed meal. 

More yummy dip recipes

• Dill pickle dip
• Cowboy caviar
• Jalapeno spinach dip
• Cream cheese dip
• Cold crab dip recipe
• See all our easy dip recipes!

Other awesome recipes with cream cheese

• Grape salad
• Seven layer dip recipe
• Edible brownie dip
• Cheese ball recipe
• No bake cheesecake
• Cheese Danish recipe
• See all our recipes that use cream cheese!

Tools we love

• Party bowl – This bowl is pretty, and doesn’t way a billion pounds and won’t shatter if dropped.
• Stainless and copper serving spoons – These are gorgeous!

How to Make 7 Layer Dip