What is a 7 layer dip, you may be wondering? Learn how to make this delicious vegetarian 7-layer dip recipe featuring layers of beans, homemade guacamole, sour cream, tomatoes, and cheese!
My seven-layer dip is a vibrant, hearty dish composed of layers of flavorful ingredients like refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and green onions. Served cold, it brings together contrasting textures and flavors, creating a scoopable party favorite. It’s a staple for family gatherings, game nights, and celebrations where everyone gathers around the table.
Making this dip is an adventure—an invitation to bring together colorful, wholesome ingredients into one thoughtful creation. Each layer contributes its unique texture and flavor, transforming simple components into a memorable dish.
This dip shows how food can bring people together, creating connections through something meaningful and wholesome. I love making it with my kids, and yes, it might leave the kitchen a tad messy, but its all worth it when they eat it: delighted and facinated by how many different things they can find in our dip.
Despite its layered beauty, assembling a seven-layer dip is refreshingly simple. There’s no cooking required, just thoughtful assembly. You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for spontaneous family moments or last-minute invitations.
This dip holds a special place in my family memories. I think about the times when little hands helped sprinkle cheese or spread guacamole—moments when laughter filled the kitchen. It’s more than food; it’s a way of connecting, caring, and making everyone feel included at the table.
Making this In Advance
You can prepare 7-layer dip in advance to save time by assembling all the layers except tomatoes and green onions, as they can make the dip watery if left too long. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving time. Making it the day before can enhance the flavors, but wait to add the final toppings until just before serving to keep the dip fresh and visually appealing.
Seven-layer dip is typically served cold or at room temperature, as heating it can change the texture of layers like sour cream and guacamole; for a hot version, try a variation with melted cheese and fewer dairy-based components. Refrigerating the dip is essential for food safety and to maintain its structure, so cover it tightly and store in the fridge until ready to serve; leftovers should be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2-3 days.
Ingredients for 7-layer Dip Recipe
- Refried beans: Creamy and hearty, forming the base layer.
- Black beans: Adds texture and protein; remember to drain and rinse thoroughly.
- Cumin: A warm spice that enhances the beans.
- Paprika: For a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
- Guacamole: Smooth and tangy, balancing the earthy beans.
- Sour cream: Adds a cooling creaminess.
- Salsa: Brings freshness and a bit of zest; mango salsa works wonderfully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp, cheesy addition.
- Diced tomatoes: Fresh and juicy.
- Chopped green onions: Mild onion flavor and a burst of color.
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See recipe card for exact quantities.
Directions to Make 7-Layer Dip
Prepare the Base Layers
Start by spreading refried beans evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish. Mix black beans with cumin and paprika in a separate bowl, then spread this mixture over the refried beans for a layered foundation.
Add the Creamy Layers
Spread a smooth layer of guacamole over the black beans. Follow with an even layer of sour cream, creating a cool and creamy contrast to the beans.
Top with Fresh and Cheesy Elements
Next, pour the salsa over the sour cream, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the salsa. Finally, garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
Top Tips
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh guacamole and salsa elevate the flavors.
Customize the layers: Add extras like diced bell peppers or corn for more variety.
Serving options: Pair with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or pita chips for dipping.
Storage Instructions
Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Serve it cold or let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Stir gently if the layers have settled.
Accompanying Dishes
Pair this dip with dishes that complement its bold flavors for a complete meal experience. For a cozy, hearty option, the Crunchy Crispy Tofu Pasta Bake balances the dip's creamy texture. The Festive Chicken with Pomegranate adds a bright, fruity note to your table. Seasonal options like the Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash or Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread make for a thoughtful fall spread.
For sweet endings, try the Slow Cooker Gingerbread Fudge or the nostalgic Soft Gingerbread Loaf Casserole. Each of these dishes, combined with the seven-layer dip, brings warmth and connection to your gathering.
More Dips to Enjoy with the Family
Explore more creative and flavorful dips to expand your party menu. The Roasted Eggplant and Tomato Dip and Creamy Baked Feta Dip add Mediterranean charm. For a thoughtful sweet-savory twist, the Chickpea Sweet Potato Dip is worth trying.
Complete your dip collection with Roasted Carrot Dip, Easy Black-Eyed Pea Dip, and the smooth, satisfying Creamy White Bean Hummus.
Recipe
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Seven Layer Vegetarian Dip
Ingredients
- 1 16-oz can refried beans
- 1 15 oz can black beans , drained and rinsed
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Spread refried beans evenly in a 9x13 inch glass dish.
- Mix black beans with cumin and paprika and spread over refried beans.
- Layer guacamole over beans.
- Spread sour cream as the next layer.
- Add salsa layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.
- Top with diced tomatoes and green onions.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
