Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Printable Version)
A vibrant dip with creamy, tangy, and fresh layers served alongside crunchy chips for any occasion.
# What You Need:
→ Base Layer
01 - 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
02 - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
→ Creamy Layer
03 - 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 cup sour cream
05 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
06 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
→ Salsa Layer
07 - 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, as preferred)
→ Toppings
08 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
09 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
11 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
12 - 1/4 cup sliced green onions
13 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
14 - 1 medium avocado, diced (optional)
15 - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for heat)
→ For Serving
16 - Tortilla chips
# How-To Steps:
01 - Combine refried beans with taco seasoning in a small bowl, mixing thoroughly. Spread evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish or large serving platter.
02 - Blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a separate bowl until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
03 - Evenly distribute the creamy mixture over the bean layer using a spatula, creating a uniform base for the toppings.
04 - Gently spread salsa over the creamy layer, taking care not to disturb the layer beneath.
05 - Evenly distribute shredded lettuce across the salsa, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
06 - Scatter diced tomatoes, sliced olives, green onions, and cilantro (if using) over the cheese layer for optimal visual appeal.
07 - Add diced avocado and jalapeño slices as desired for extra flavor dimension and presentation.
08 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- The contrast between cool creamy layers and zesty toppings creates something magical in every bite
- You can assemble it hours ahead and let the flavors hang out together in the fridge
- People literally crowd around this dish, and its gone before halftime
02 -
- Never skip the chilling time—the layers need to settle and flavors need to mingle, otherwise it tastes like separate ingredients instead of a cohesive dish
- Spread each layer all the way to the edges so every scoop gets all the components
- Drain your salsa for 5 minutes in a sieve if it seems especially watery
03 -
- Use a clear glass dish so guests can admire those beautiful layers before they dig in
- Add a layer of guacamole between the salsa and lettuce if you want extra creaminess