This is a classic Mexican Layer Dip that is seasoned to perfection! An updated and flavorful 7 Layer Taco Dip, your friends and family will be clamoring for more. Perfect for Cinco de Mayo, game days and beyond, this Layered Taco Dip is the ultimate party food!
I know what you’re probably thinking. “Julie, how much dip can one person possibly eat?”
Well, the answer is a lot. All the dips, all the time. If I could live on dips alone, I would do it and be thrilled about it! (Especially if it’s this Mexican Layered Dip!!!) But the fact is, that would leave no room for pasta or cookies, and it probably wouldn’t be good for me. Everything in moderation, of course!
That’s why this classic 7 layer taco dip is perfect for parties. It feeds a crowd, which keeps me from eating every last bite… and that makes it the perfect appetizer or part of a Cinco de Mayo menu! Everyone loves it, and it’s usually the first thing to go during gatherings with friends and family! It’s easy to make, colorful and festive to serve, and packed full of Mexican-inspired flavors.
The Best Mexican Layered Dip
This 7 layer taco dip is a fresh, updated take on the classic version that we all know and love. A few simple upgrades take this dip over the top! It’s simple to throw together and makes the perfect amount for parties.
First, the best dips start with fresh ingredients. While I am always a fan of shortcuts when they help get the job done faster, sometimes quicker doesn’t equal more delicious. Need a few tips for the best layered taco dip that everyone will crave?
- Fresh grated cheese. I love Monterey Jack for this recipe, but you can use your preference. The only requirement? Grate it fresh! No pre-bagged cheese will do. You won’t regret this step, I promise!
- Homemade taco seasoning. Skip the seasoning packet and mix these spices together… it’s worth it!
- Use pico de gallo instead of the layer of regular sliced tomatoes that most recipes suggest. It takes the flavor to a whole new level!
- Fresh Guacamole. I’ll understand if you choose to save time and skip this step, but no store-bought version can compare to fresh, creamy homemade gaucamole.
- Want it even spicier? Sub the can of refried beans with the Frito Lay Jalapeno version!
What’s In 7 Layer Taco Dip?
It’s simple to make and so easy to serve.
- In a small bowl, mix your bean dip and taco seasoning mix (homemade, as noted on the recipe card)
- In your serving dish, spread the refried beans.
- Next up is guacamole! This is the hardest part- be careful not to spread it into the beans if possible! You want to achieve that pretty layered effect when guests scoop onto a chip.
- On top of the guacamole, spread your layer of grated cheese.
- Pico de gallo is the next layer!
- Spread your olives, green onions and finally cilantro.
- Optional? A drizzled layer of sour cream on top!
How To Lighten Up This 7 Layer Taco Dip
While I fully support going full speed ahead with this recipe as-is, you can also lighten it up a bit. As someone who loves all the carbs, I know how hard it can be to eat in moderation!
You can make it a little lower fat by using reduced fat or fat-free refried beans, and of course you can also use a little less cheese. Reduced fat cheese won’t be as creamy, so it’s best to just use less of the good stuff, in my opinion!
You’re eliminating a lot of sodium simply by making your own taco seasoning mix. Another easy tip? Instead of classic chips, try dipping fresh sliced peppers and crunchy sugar snap peas into this layered taco dip! The sweet crunch of the veggies is a delicious match to this slightly spicy dip.
Can You Make Mexican Layered Dip The Night Before?
The truth? You can, but it won’t be as fresh or as delicious. The main reason for this is that the fresh gaucamole will brown.
However, if you use pre-packaged guacamole with preservatives to prevent browning, you can certainly put most of this together the night before! I would add the green onions and fresh cilantro just before serving for a fresh spin.
More Mexican Inspired Dips You'll Love
Easy and amazing Mexican inspired dips that are always crowd pleasers.
Queso Blanco White Queso Dip
Queso Blanco, a recipe for a restaurant style white queso dip without a lot of effort. This creamy, cheesy Queso Blanco is made with just 4 ingredients; white cheese, heavy cream, tomato and jalapeño!
Chilled Queso Recipe
This Whole Foods copycat queso recipe is served chilled, making it easy for entertaining and the best creamy queso dip recipe for entertaining or tailgates.
Chili Con Queso
Copycat recipe of Chevy's Chili Con Queso - the ultimate cheese dip recipe!
Cream Cheese Bean Dip (Mexican Bean Dip)
Easy 5 minute Cream Cheese Bean Dip recipe made with just 4 ingredients! Mexican bean dip is a perfect appetizer for game day and beyond.
Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe
This Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe is a fresh and easy dip or topping for tacos, quesadillas, burritos and more! Add this Chipotle Corn Salsa to your burrito bowls for the ultimate Chipotle copycat.
Mexican Layer Dip (7 Layer Taco Dip)
Ingredients
- 16 oz refried beans
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper
- 1 c guacamole
- 1 1/2 c monterey jack shredded
- 2.25 oz black olives sliced
- 1 c pico de gallo
- 1 green onion sliced
- 3 Tbsp sour cream
Instructions
- Combine refried beans and chili powder in a small bowl.
- Spread onto a platter or shallow dish.
- Spread guacamole on top.
- Sprinkle with cheese to cover.
- Add pico de gallo (or tomatoes, onion and cilantro).
- Add olives.
- Top with green onions.
- Optional: Thin sour cream with a touch of milk for a pretty drizzle. Put sour cream in a ketchup container or a ziplock with the corner snipped and zig zag across the Mexican Layer Dip.
This looks wonderful. Can’t wait to make this.
Enjoy!