Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Printer-friendly)

A vibrant blend of creamy beans, tangy salsa, and fresh toppings, perfect for sharing with 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 across the bottom of a 9x13-inch serving dish or casserole dish.
02 - Blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a separate bowl until completely smooth and well combined.
03 - Evenly distribute the creamy mixture over the bean layer using a spatula, ensuring complete coverage.
04 - Gently spread salsa over the creamy layer, maintaining distinct layers for visual appeal.
05 - Evenly distribute shredded lettuce over the salsa, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
06 - Scatter diced tomatoes, sliced olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro (if using) across the cheese layer.
07 - Add diced avocado and jalapeño slices for extra flavor, color, and presentation if desired.
08 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with tortilla chips for dipping.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • You can assemble it ahead of time and let it chill, which means zero stress when guests arrive
  • Every layer offers a different texture and flavor bite, from creamy to tangy to fresh crunch
  • It's infinitely customizable based on what your crowd loves or what's in your fridge
02 -
  • Soggy lettuce ruins everything, so pat your tomatoes dry and don't add the lettuce layer until right before serving if you're making this way ahead
  • The cream cheese layer needs to be completely smooth before you spread it—lumps will tear when you add the salsa on top
03 -
  • Use an offset spatula to spread each layer—it gives you the most control and keeps the layers distinct
  • If you're taking this somewhere, assemble it in the same dish you'll transport it in, because this beauty does not travel well once layered

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