You know that moment when you need a party appetizer that’ll disappear faster than you can say “pass the chips”? That’s my 7-layer dip—the MVP of every gathering I’ve ever hosted. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve thrown this together last-minute, watching guests swarm the table like it’s the only dish in the room. What I love most? It’s stupid easy. Seven layers, zero cooking, and about 10 minutes of effort for a colorful, crunchy, creamy bite that always earns recipe requests. Pro tip: Double the batch if you want leftovers (spoiler: you won’t).
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Irresistible 7 Layers Layered Dip Vanishes in Minutes
A quick and easy 7-layer dip perfect for parties and gatherings. This layered appetizer is a crowd-pleaser and can be prepared in minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Spread the refried beans evenly in a serving dish.
- Layer the sour cream on top of the beans.
- Spread the guacamole over the sour cream.
- Pour the salsa evenly over the guacamole.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the sliced black olives.
- Finish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use a clear dish to show off the layers.
- Customize with additional toppings like diced tomatoes or jalapeños.
- Serve with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.
Why You’ll Love This 7 Layers Layered Dip
Trust me, this dip is about to become your go-to party hero—here’s why:
- Effortless magic: No cooking, no fuss—just layer, scoop, and watch it vanish.
- Flavor fireworks: Creamy, crunchy, tangy, and fresh all in one bite (yes, it’s addictive).
- Customizable canvas: Swap layers based on what’s in your fridge—I’ve tossed in pickled jalapeños or crispy bacon when feeling fancy.
- Crowd magnet: The colorful layers in a clear dish? Instant conversation starter.
Seriously, it’s the dip that never lets me down—even my picky nephew licks the bowl clean.

Ingredients for the Perfect 7 Layers Layered Dip
Here’s your shopping list for dip domination – and yes, every layer matters. Grab:
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans – I use the traditional kind, but black bean refried works great too
- 1 cup sour cream – packed firmly into the measuring cup
- 1 cup guacamole – store-bought is fine (we’re keeping it easy) but homemade? Even better
- 1 cup salsa – medium heat for most crowds, though I sometimes sneak in hot for my spice-loving friends
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives – drain them well or you’ll get soggy layers
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions – slice those green stalks thin, all the way up to where they turn dark green
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
No sour cream? Greek yogurt works in a pinch. Vegan? Swap in dairy-free alternatives – I’ve used cashew sour cream and it’s delicious. Out of fresh guac? The packaged stuff from the refrigerated section beats the shelf-stable kind. And if you’re feeling fancy, mix taco seasoning into your refried beans for extra oomph. The beauty? This dip forgives improvisation.
How to Make 7 Layers Layered Dip
Okay, here’s the fun part—building those gorgeous layers. Grab your prettiest serving dish (more on that below) and let’s dive in:
- Beans first: Spread that whole can of refried beans evenly across the bottom—I use the back of a spoon dipped in warm water to smooth it without sticking.
- Creamy dream: Dollop sour cream over the beans, then gently spread it to the edges. Pro move? Leave a tiny bean border visible so layers peek through.
- Green goodness: Spoon guacamole over the sour cream—if it’s thick, drop little mounds and pat them together rather than dragging and mixing layers.
- Salsa splash: Pour, don’t spoon, your salsa. Tilting the jar in circles gives you perfect coverage without disturbing the guac.
- Cheese blanket: Sprinkle cheese evenly—I press some against the sides so it shows off when scooped.
- Olive confetti: Scatter olives like you’re decorating a cake—get some near the edges for color contrast.
- Onion confetti: Crown your masterpiece with those bright green onions. Refrigerate if not serving immediately (up to 2 hours max for best texture).
See? No cooking, just stacking—and the oohs and aahs are guaranteed.

Pro Tip for Serving
Use a clear glass trifle dish or pie plate—watching guests’ faces when they see the rainbow layers is half the fun. And always serve with thick restaurant-style tortilla chips that can handle serious scooping.
Customizing Your 7 Layers Layered Dip
Oh, the possibilities. This dip is like your favorite jeans—perfect as-is but so fun to dress up. Last game night, I swapped refried beans for spicy black bean dip and added pickled jalapeños between the salsa and cheese—total crowd freakout. Other winning twists:
- Meat lovers: Taco-seasoned ground beef or chorizo between beans and sour cream
- Crunch addicts: Diced bell peppers or jicama sticks under the cheese
- Breakfast version: Scrambled eggs instead of beans, bacon bits in the cheese layer (trust me, it works)
Seriously, raid your fridge—those leftover grilled corn or pico de gallo deserve a dip spotlight too. If you’re looking for other great appetizer ideas, check out my mini quiches recipe.
Storing and Reheating
Pop any leftovers (ha—good luck having any) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Skip freezing—the guacamole turns weirdly watery. And no reheating needed. This dip tastes best cold, straight from the fridge with those crisp chip scoops. For more great make-ahead recipes, see my guide on what to make for dinner that will last a few days.
Nutritional Information for 7 Layers Layered Dip
Let’s be real—we’re not eating dip for the health benefits, but here’s the scoop: Estimates vary based on brands, but one serving (about 1/8th of the dish) clocks in around 180 calories, with 12g fat and 6g protein. The good news? Those fresh veggies and beans mean you’re getting decent fiber too—just balance it with veggies sticks if you’re watching chips. And hey, sharing is caring (but no judgment if you don’t). You can find more inspiration for healthy eating on my Pinterest page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead?
Absolutely, Assemble it up to 2 days before—just wait to add the green onions until serving so they stay crisp. Cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed right onto the surface (this keeps the guac from browning).
Vegan options?
Easy peasy, Swap in vegan sour cream, dairy-free cheese, and check your refried beans don’t have lard. I’ve even used blended avocado instead of guacamole when I was out of lime juice. If you are looking for other vegetarian options, try this chickpea butternut squash curry.
Best chips for scooping?
Go for thick, restaurant-style tortilla chips—the sturdy ones won’t snap under all those glorious layers. Bonus points if they’re slightly salted.
Ready to Serve Your 7 Layers Layered Dip
Now go forth and dip with abandon. I can’t wait to hear how your crowd goes wild for this layered masterpiece—tag me if you snap a pic before it disappears (because it will).
