Seven Layer Dip

5 servings servings Prep: 15 m Cook: PT0M Total: 15 m Beginner
This fiesta dip can served at a football game party, party or, in Louisiana, any excuse to pass a good time. Layers of refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, cheese, salsa, green chilies, and scallions make this a crowd-pleaser. Make it up an hour or two beforehand and put in the fridge. But don’t make it too much longer in advance. This dish only takes 15 minutes to make.

Ingredients

  • 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
  • 1 package Taco Seasoning Mix
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • 1 cup Mexican 4 cheese blend
  • 1 cup mild or medium salsa
  • 8 ounces guacamole
  • 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
  • 1/3 cup scallions (green onion tops), chopped
  • 16 ounces tortilla chips (heavy duty kind)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Combine the beans and taco mix in a small bowl. Spread it over the bottom of an 8-inch square glass baking dish.
  2. Layer the sour cream over the bean mixture, spreading evenly to the edges.
  3. Add the guacamole as the next layer, then sprinkle the cheese evenly over the guacamole.
  4. Spoon the salsa over the cheese layer, followed by the chopped green chilies.
  5. Top with the chopped scallions (green onion tops).
  6. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let flavors meld. Taste first, then serve to the rest of the crowd with heavy duty tortilla chips. This is a great crowd pleaser.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my dip watery?

A: Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the salsa before adding it. Also, don't make the dip more than 2 hours ahead of time, as the ingredients will start to release moisture and make it soggy.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes, but only 1-2 hours ahead. Making it too far in advance causes the layers to break down and get watery. If you need to prep earlier, prepare all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

Tips and Techniques

Use heavy duty tortilla chips that won’t break when scooping through all seven layers. Regular thin chips will snap and leave you fishing in the dip with your fingers. For extra freshness, make your own guacamole rather than using store-bought.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • guacamole: mashed avocado with lime juice and salt
  • refried beans: black beans, drained and mashed
  • Mexican 4 cheese blend: shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack

Equipment Needed

  • 8-inch square glass baking dish
  • small mixing bowl
  • spatula or spoon for spreading layers

Historical Context

Seven layer dip became popular in the 1970s and 80s as Tex-Mex cuisine spread across the South. In Louisiana, it joined the party food rotation alongside boudin balls and crawfish dip.