Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Print version)

Festive dip featuring creamy, zesty, and crunchy layers served with crispy tortilla chips.

# Ingredient List:

→ Base Layer

01 - 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
02 - 1 teaspoon taco seasoning

→ Creamy Layer

03 - 1 cup sour cream
04 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

→ Salsa Layer

07 - 1 cup chunky salsa, drained

→ Toppings

08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
11 - 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
12 - 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
13 - 1 medium avocado, diced
14 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
15 - Tortilla chips for serving

→ Optional Protein Layer

16 - 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey, cooked with taco seasoning

# How To Make It:

01 - Mix refried beans with taco seasoning in a medium bowl until well combined. Spread evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch serving dish or trifle bowl.
02 - Beat sour cream, softened cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic powder in a separate bowl until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Spread this mixture evenly over the bean layer.
03 - Spoon the drained salsa over the creamy layer, spreading gently to maintain distinct layers without mixing.
04 - If using meat, distribute the cooled seasoned ground beef or turkey evenly over the salsa layer as the next stratum.
05 - Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses uniformly over the salsa layer (or meat layer if using).
06 - Arrange diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, avocado tossed with lime juice, and fresh cilantro evenly over the cheese layer.
07 - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled accompanied by tortilla chips for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's the ultimate party starter that disappears faster than you can say touchdown
  • You can assemble it hours ahead and actually enjoy your own party
  • Every scooped chip gets all seven layers in one perfect bite
02 -
  • Drain your salsa for at least 10 minutes or the layers will bleed together and look muddy
  • Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly cold cream cheese leaves stubborn lumps
  • Add avocado last and right before serving to maintain that vibrant green color
03 -
  • Use a trifle bowl or clear glass dish for maximum visual impact
  • Make your own taco seasoning blend to control salt levels and avoid additives

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