This 7 Layer Dip is the no-bake party dip that always gets people hovering around the snack table. It’s creamy, crunchy, colorful, and packed with classic taco-style flavors. Scoop it up with chips and you’ve got the easiest crowd-pleaser ever.
Introduction
If you need an appetizer that looks impressive but takes almost no effort, 7 Layer Dip is it. It’s a reader favorite because it’s fast, beginner-friendly, and totally customizable. Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks because you can make it ahead and keep it chilled.
The standout trick is using thicker salsa (or draining it slightly) so your layers stay clean and not watery. Trust me, don’t skip that step… it’s what keeps your 7 Layer Dip looking pretty and scooping well.
Why You’ll Love This 7 Layer Dip
- No-bake and easy: Layer, chill, and serve.
- Party-perfect: Feeds a crowd and disappears fast.
- Better than store-bought: Fresher taste and cleaner layers.
- Customizable: Add or swap layers to fit your taste.
- Make-ahead friendly: Great for prepping the day before.
Ingredients for 7 Layer Dip
- Refried beans (1 can, 16 oz): Hearty base that holds layers.
- Swap: Mash black beans with a little lime juice.
- Sour cream (1 1/2 cups): Creamy layer.
- Swap: Plain Greek yogurt.
- Taco seasoning (1 tbsp): Adds big taco flavor to the sour cream layer.
- Guacamole (1 1/2 cups): Creamy, fresh layer.
- Tip: Store-bought works great.
- Salsa (1 1/2 cups): Adds juicy tomato flavor.
- Tip: Use thick salsa or drain slightly to avoid watery dip.
- Shredded cheddar (2 cups): Cheesy layer that ties it together.
- Swap: A Mexican-style blend.
- Tomatoes, diced (1 cup): Fresh topping.
- Black olives, sliced (1/2 cup): Salty finish.
- Swap: Skip if you don’t like olives.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Fresh topper.
How to Make 7 Layer Dip
- 1. Spread refried beans in the bottom of a 9-inch square dish (or similar size).
- 2. Stir sour cream and taco seasoning together, then spread over the beans.
- 3. Add guacamole in an even layer.
- 4. Spoon salsa on top. If your salsa is watery, drain it first so the dip stays thick.
- 5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.
- 6. Top with diced tomatoes, black olives, and green onions.
- 7. Chill 30 minutes if you can, then serve with tortilla chips.
Tips for Perfect 7 Layer Dip
- Use thick salsa: Watery salsa makes layers slide.
- Spread gently: Use the back of a spoon for clean layers.
- Chill before serving: Helps it set and scoop better.
- Layer order matters: Beans on bottom keep everything stable.
- Serve with sturdy chips: Thick tortilla chips scoop best.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add a meat layer: Add cooked taco-seasoned ground beef (cool first).
- Spicy version: Add diced pickled jalapeños on top.
- Extra fresh: Add chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime over the top.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese.
- Leftover idea: Spoon into wraps or make taco bowls with lettuce.
Storing & Reheating
Store 7 Layer Dip covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dip is best served cold, so no reheating needed.
For best texture, add tomatoes and green onions right before serving if making ahead.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve with tortilla chips and a veggie tray.
- Pair with sliders or tacos for a party spread.
- Great for potlucks, game day, and holidays.
- Add extra salsa on the side for dipping.
Reader Review: “This 7 layer dip was a huge hit! The layers stayed neat and it scooped perfectly with chips.”
If you make this 7 Layer Dip, leave a rating and comment! Are you adding a meat layer, or keeping it classic and no-bake?
Print
7 Layer Dip (Best Ever, Easy, No-Bake)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This 7 layer dip is an easy no-bake party classic—creamy, crunchy, and loaded with Tex-Mex flavor.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
1 cup sour cream
1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning
1 1/2 cups guacamole
1 1/2 cups salsa (drain if watery)
2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/3 cup sliced black olives (optional)
2 tablespoons sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions
In a shallow dish (9×13-inch), spread refried beans in an even layer.
Mix sour cream with taco seasoning; spread over beans.
Spread guacamole, then salsa.
Top with shredded cheese, then lettuce, tomatoes, and olives/green onions (if using).
Chill 30 minutes (optional) and serve with tortilla chips.
Notes
Best texture: Add lettuce and tomatoes right before serving.
Make-ahead: Assemble up to 6 hours ahead (hold fresh toppings).
Tools: 9×13-inch dish, spatula.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired