7 Layer Dip Recipe

This 7 Layer Dip Recipe is made with salsa, refried beans, cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, guacamole, shredded cheese and green onion.

This is one of the easiest appetizers to make to feed a big group of people. The best part is you can prepare it ahead of time and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until it is time to use it. There are layers of creamy and fresh ingredients that come together seamlessly. Lat time I made it, everyone was crowding around the dip. This dip is perfect for gamedays as well. You can choose to making your own guacamole and salsa, or buy store bought ingredients.

If you like this dip, try my Instant Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip and my Salsa de Chile Guajillo!

Jump to:

• What is in 7 layer dip?
• What is in 7 Layer Dip?
• How to make 7 Layer Dip Recipe
• How Long Does 7 Layer Dip Last In Fridge?
• Substitutions
• 7 Layer Dip Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store 7 Layer Dip
• 7 Layer Dip Recipe Top tips
• 7 Layer Dip Recipe

What is in 7 layer dip?

7-layer dip is a popular party appetizer that consists of seven layers of ingredients piled on top of each other in a serving dish. The layers typically include refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, black olive and green onions. The dip is typically served with tortilla chips or other dipping snacks. The combination of savory and creamy flavors and different textures makes 7-layer dip a crowd-pleasing party favorite.

What is in 7 Layer Dip?

• Salsa
• Refried Beans
• Cream cheese
• Sour Cream
• Taco Seasoning
• Guacamole
• Shredded cheese
• Green onion

See recipe card for 7 Layer Dip with Cream Cheese (Gluten Free and Keto) quantities.

How to make 7 Layer Dip Recipe

Hint: Make sure to refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.

How Long Does 7 Layer Dip Last In Fridge?

The shelf life of 7-layer dip in the refrigerator depends on the freshness of the ingredients used and how it is stored. Generally, 7-layer dip will last for up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. Cover the dip with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to keep it from drying out and absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods in the refrigerator. Keep the dip in the coldest part of your refrigerator, which is typically the back of the bottom shelf.

Substitutions

There are many possible ingredient substitutes for 7-layer dip. Here are some options:

• Refried beans: If you don't have refried beans, you can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or lentils. Simply mash them with a fork or blend them in a food processor until they are smooth and spreadable.
• Guacamole: If you don't have avocados, you can substitute with hummus, white bean dip, or spinach and artichoke dip.
• Sour cream: If you don't have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, or cottage cheese.
• Salsa: If you don't have salsa, you can substitute with diced tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, or your favorite hot sauce.
• Shredded cheese: If you don't have shredded cheese, you can substitute with crumbled feta cheese, queso fresco, or grated Parmesan cheese.
• Black olives: If you don't have black olives, you can substitute with sliced green olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
• Green onions: If you don't have green onions, you can substitute with diced red onions, diced white onions, or chives.

Remember, ingredient substitutions can change the flavor and texture of the dip, so it's important to choose substitutes that are similar in flavor and texture to the original ingredients.

7 Layer Dip Recipe Variations

7-layer dip is a versatile and customizable recipe that can be adjusted to suit your tastes and preferences.

• Greek 7-Layer Dip: Replace the refried beans with hummus and the cheddar cheese with crumbled feta cheese. Add layers of diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and chopped fresh parsley.
• Buffalo Chicken 7-Layer Dip: Add a layer of cooked and shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce between the sour cream and salsa layers. Top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped celery.
• Vegetarian 7-Layer Dip: Replace the meat with a layer of roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Add a layer of corn and chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
• Tex-Mex 7-Layer Dip: Add a layer of cooked and crumbled chorizo or ground beef seasoned with chili powder and cumin. Top with sliced jalapeños and fresh cilantro.
• Seafood 7-Layer Dip: Add a layer of canned or fresh crab meat or shrimp. Top with diced avocado and chopped fresh dill.

Check out this Homemade Tzatziki Sauce for good dip!

Equipment

Here's a list of equipment you'll need to make 7-Layer Dip:

• 9-inch baking dish or glass dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula for spreading layers
• Knife for slicing green onions
• Can opener (if using canned ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board (if using fresh vegetables)

Most of these items are basic kitchen tools that you likely already have on hand. If you don't have a 9-inch square baking dish, you can use a similar sized dish such as an 8x8 inch or 11x7 inch baking dish. A clear glass dish is ideal so that you can see the layers of the dip, but any dish that's suitable for baking and serving will work.

How to store 7 Layer Dip

To store 7-Layer Dip, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. The dip can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, depending on the freshness of the ingredients.

It's important to note that as the dip sits, the layers may start to blend together and the texture may become slightly softer. To prevent this, you can try to keep the layers as separate as possible when storing the dip. If the dip has become slightly watery, you can drain off any excess liquid before serving.

It's best to serve the dip chilled, so take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature. If the dip looks dry, you can add a little more salsa or guacamole to freshen it up. Garnish with additional sliced green onions or cilantro, if desired.

7 Layer Dip Recipe Top tips

• Use fresh ingredients: The taste of the dip depends largely on the freshness of the ingredients used. Use fresh vegetables, homemade salsa, and guacamole to ensure a vibrant and flavorful dip.
• Drain canned ingredients: If using canned ingredients such as black olives or diced tomatoes, drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the dip. This will help prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
• Layer evenly: Spread each layer of the dip evenly in the dish, making sure to cover the layer below it completely. This will ensure that each layer is visible and that the dip is easy to scoop and serve.
• Add some texture: Add a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top of the dip for some extra crunch. You can also sprinkle some chopped cilantro or green onions on top for added flavor.
• Customize to your taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning or spice level to your taste. You can also add additional layers or toppings, such as cooked ground beef or sliced jalapeños, for a personalized touch.
• Serve with sturdy chips: Serve the dip with sturdy tortilla chips or crackers that can withstand the weight of the dip without breaking. Scoop the dip from the bottom of the dish to ensure that each scoop has all the layers.

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