This 7 Layer Bean Dip is a fun and colorful dish packed with flavors! Layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, olives, and green onions create a yummy treat for any gathering.
It’s perfect for parties or movie nights. I love bringing it out with chips and watching everyone dig in. It’s so good, you might just find yourself going back for seconds—no judgment here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Refried Beans: This is the base of the dip. Canned refried beans are convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own using cooked pinto beans and spices!
Guacamole: Store-bought works great, but homemade guacamole can add a personal touch. Just mash ripe avocados and mix them with lime juice, salt, and diced tomatoes. If avocados are not available, blended peas can be a good substitute!
Sour Cream: Regular sour cream adds great creaminess. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. It’s thicker and adds a nice tang!
Salsa or Taco Sauce: You can choose mild or spicy salsa based on your taste. Homemade salsa is also easy to whip up with fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar elevates the flavor, but you can swap it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different twist!
Vegetables: Fresh tomatoes and olives add great texture. Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers or corn if you like a bit more crunch and sweetness.
How Do I Layer My Dip for Maximum Enjoyment?
The art of layering is key to a great 7 Layer Bean Dip! Start with careful layering so every bite gets a bit of everything. Here’s how:
- Spread the refried beans first, making sure it’s even for a solid foundation.
- Add the guacamole gently; use a spatula to avoid mixing with the beans.
- When layering the sour cream, consider using a spoon for neatness. Don’t rush this!
- For the salsa, it’s best to pat it dry a little before spreading it to avoid a soupy dip.
- Layer cheese generously; it helps to ‘glue’ down the toppings!
- Finish with lighter toppings like olives, tomatoes, and onions. They look great and keep the dip visually appealing!
Finally, refrigerate before serving to let the flavors develop. Enjoy your beautiful creation!
How to Make 7 Layer Bean Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
- 1 cup guacamole (prepared or homemade)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa or chunky taco sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes (cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered)
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. Then, allow at least 1 hour for the dip to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Grab a 9×9 inch glass dish or a similar-sized dish. Open the can of refried beans and spread them evenly across the bottom of the dish to form your first layer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure it’s nice and smooth.
2. Layer the Guacamole:
Next, gently take your guacamole and spread it over the refried beans. Be careful not to mix them! Try to keep it even so every bite has a wonderful creaminess.
3. Add the Sour Cream:
Now, it’s time for the sour cream. Spread it on top of the guacamole layer, smoothing it out well. This creamy layer is going to make your dip so delicious!
4. Pour on the Salsa:
Pour the salsa or taco sauce over the sour cream layer. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly. This adds a nice pop of flavor and color!
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Next, it’s cheese time! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the salsa layer. Don’t be shy—make it nice and cheesy!
6. Add the Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Top the cheese with sliced black olives, chopped tomatoes, red onions, and green onions. You can arrange them however you like, making it look pretty for your guests.
7. Finish with Cilantro:
For the final touch, sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over all the layers. It adds a burst of freshness that makes everything even better!
8. Chill & Serve:
Cover your 7 Layer Bean Dip with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your dip with tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Enjoy every scoop!
This vibrant, layered dip is full of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite—perfect for any gathering or snack time!
Can I Use Homemade Refried Beans Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Homemade refried beans can give your dip a fresher taste. Just cook pinto beans until soft, then mash them with some seasoning and a little oil for creaminess. Let them cool before layering.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover 7 Layer Bean Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the guacamole layer may brown a bit, but it will still taste delicious!
What If I Don’t Like One of the Toppings?
No problem! You can easily customize the dip to your liking. If you’re not a fan of black olives, try diced jalapeños, corn, or even shredded lettuce for extra crunch.
Can I Make This Dip Upside Down?
Yes! If you prefer, you can layer your ingredients upside down. Start with the toppings first, then layer the beans and guacamole on top. Just be sure to serve it in a way that lets everyone dig down to the layers!
