5 Layer Dip is the easy party appetizer that brings everyone together with delicious Tex-Mex flavor in every scoop. Make this crowd-pleasing dip for game day, potlucks, movie nights, or any gathering where snacks are a must.

close up of 5 Layer Dip with a portion taken out to show all the layers

Holly’s Recipe Highlights: 5 Layer Dip

  • Flavor: Loaded with Tex-Mex zest in every bite, this dip has the best creamy, cheesy flavor.
  • Difficulty: It comes together in just one dish. Using prepared ingredients makes it super easy and quick to assemble: just layer, chill, and serve.
  • Serving Suggestions: Best served cold with crunchy tortilla chips, scoop chips, or fresh veggies.
  • Yield: This dip serves up to 16 people, making it great for a crowd.

Total Time: 10 minutes Servings: 16 Cooking Method: Chilled

Simple Dip Ingredients

refried beans , guacamole , tomato , cheese ,taco seasoning , salsa , sour cream with labels to make 5 Layer Dip
  • Refried Beans & Salsa: Any variety of refried beans works. Make sure to stir in salsa to loosen the texture so the dip stays scoopable. Use your favorite salsa, whether mild or spicy.
  • Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream has the best flavor and thick, creamy texture.
  • Taco Seasoning: Start with less, then adjust to taste, as taco seasoning can be very salty.
  • Prepared Guacamole: Store-bought guacamole keeps this recipe quick, or try this tasty grilled corn guacamole. Smooth guacamole spreads more easily than chunky.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the dip bold flavor, while a Mexican blend or pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
  • Tomato: Dice and drain the tomato on paper towels so the top layer stays fresh and not watery.
  • Green Onions or Black Olives, Optional: These add color and extra flavor, and give the dip a finished look.

Variations

  • Spicy 5 Layer Dip: Use hot salsa, pepper jack cheese, and sliced jalapeños.
  • Meat Lover’s Dip: Add a layer of cooked, cooled taco meat or shredded chicken between the beans and guacamole.
  • Extra Fresh Dip: Add chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime over the top just before serving.

How to Make 5 Layer Dip

  1. Mix refried beans with salsa and spread into the dish.
  2. Layer guacamole over the bean mixture.
  1. Stir sour cream with taco seasoning, then spread over the guacamole. (Full recipe below.)
  2. Top with shredded cheddar, diced tomato, and optional garnish, and chill.

Tips for Perfect Layers

  • Serve in a Shallow Dish: A pie plate or shallow casserole lets guests scoop a little bit of each layer.
  • Add Toppings Late: For make-ahead prep, wait to add cheese, tomatoes, olives, and green onions until just before serving.
  • Keep Layers Distinct: Drop sour cream in small dollops and spread carefully so that it doesn’t mix in with the guacamole.
  • Chill: A short chill helps the layers firm up and makes the dip easier to scoop.
dish of 5 Layer Dip

Storing 5 Layer Dip

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings separate if possible.
  • Freezing: This dip is best served fresh; freezing is not recommended as it makes this dip watery.
  • Serving: Do not leave this dip at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If leaving it out for more than 2 hours, place it in a larger dish filled with ice.

Tex Mex Party Favorites

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5 Layer Dip with a portion taken out
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5 Layer Dip

This easy 5 layer dip is the best party appetizer. Made with refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, cheddar, and fresh tomatoes, it's the perfect scoopable snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 16
Author The Shortcut Kitchen

Ingredients  

  • 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
  • ½ cup salsa
  • cups sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1 (15 ounce) tub prepared guacamole
  • cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 large tomato diced
  • green onions or black olives, sliced, for garnish, optional

Instructions 

  • In a 2-quart dish or 9-inch pie plate, combine the refried beans and salsa. Spread into an even layer.
  • Spread the guacamole over the refried beans.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and taco seasoning. Dollop the sour cream mixture over the guacamole and spread evenly.
  • Top with a layer of shredded cheese and the diced tomatoes. Garnish with green onions or black olives if desired. Serve with tortilla chips.

Notes

If making the dip ahead of time, hold off on adding the cheese and tomato layers until ready to serve.
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Nutrition Information

Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 155mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 341IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 99mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Appetizer, Dip, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Mexican, Tex-Mex

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