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.

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 & 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


- Mix refried beans with salsa and spread into the dish.
- Layer guacamole over the bean mixture.


- Stir sour cream with taco seasoning, then spread over the guacamole. (Full recipe below.)
- Top with shredded cheddar, diced tomato, and optional garnish, and chill.

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.
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5 Layer Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
- ½ cup salsa
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning adjust to taste
- 1 (15 ounce) tub prepared guacamole
- 1½ 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
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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