Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Print version)

Colorful dip with creamy, zesty, and fresh layers served with crispy tortilla chips.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 - Combine refried beans with taco seasoning in a small bowl, mixing thoroughly. Spread mixture evenly across 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 seasoned bean layer.
03 - Gently spread salsa over the creamy layer, ensuring even coverage without disturbing the layers beneath.
04 - Distribute shredded lettuce evenly across the salsa layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the lettuce.
05 - Scatter diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, green onions, and fresh cilantro (if using) over the cheese layer for vibrant color and texture.
06 - Arrange diced avocado and jalapeño slices atop the dip for extra flavor and visual appeal, adjusting quantity based on desired spice level.
07 - Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap or lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld together and layers to set properly.
08 - Present the layered dip chilled with ample tortilla chips arranged alongside for easy dipping and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The texture contrast between cool creamy layers and fresh crisp toppings is absolutely addictive
  • It's the ultimate make-ahead dish that actually tastes better after an hour in the fridge
  • You can customize every layer to match your crowd's spice tolerance
02 -
  • A clear glass dish is worth it here because the layered presentation is half the appeal
  • Don't assemble this more than 4 hours ahead or the lettuce will start weeping and get soggy
  • Room temperature cream cheese is non-negotiable unless you want a lumpy creamy layer
03 -
  • Pat your lettuce dry with paper towels after shredding it to prevent watery dip
  • Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded bags for better melting
  • Let the dip sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving so the cheese layer softens slightly

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