Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Printable)
A vibrant blend of creamy, zesty, and fresh layers topped with cheddar and veggies, served with crunchy tortilla chips.
# What You'll 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 Make It:
01 - Mix refried beans with taco seasoning in a small bowl. Spread evenly in 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. Spread this mixture evenly over the bean layer.
03 - Gently spread salsa over the creamy layer, ensuring even distribution.
04 - Evenly distribute shredded lettuce over the salsa, then sprinkle cheddar cheese generously across the top.
05 - Scatter diced tomatoes, sliced olives, green onions, and cilantro (if using) over the cheese layer.
06 - Top with diced avocado and jalapeño slices for extra flavor and visual appeal, if desired.
07 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld together properly.
08 - Serve chilled with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The contrast of cool creamy layers against zesty salsa and crisp fresh toppings makes every bite interesting
- You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and it actually tastes better after the flavors hang out together
- It disappears faster than you can say please pass the chips
02 -
- Don't skip the chilling time, it's essential for letting the flavors meld and the layers to set up properly
- Drain your salsa for five minutes in a fine mesh sieve before adding it, or your dip will become watery within an hour
03 -
- Room temperature cream cheese blends much smoother than cold, so plan accordingly and save yourself some arm strength
- Use a wide shallow dish rather than a deep bowl so each chip gets a bit of every layer in every bite