Name: 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 16 ounces refried beans; 3 ripe avocados (mashed); 1 lime (juiced); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, or Mexican blend); ½ cup black olives (sliced); ½ cup green onions (chopped); Tortilla chips (to serve)

There’s something so satisfying about a good 7 Layer Dip, and this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe takes it up a notch with fresh, creamy avocado and zesty salsa layers. It’s colorful, flavorful, and perfect for sharing—trust me, everyone will be sneaking back for seconds!

The image shows a clear square glass dish with a colorful layered dip inside. The bottom layer is creamy and light brown, topped by a thick bright red tomato or salsa layer. Above that is a large, even layer of shredded yellow cheddar cheese. On top of the cheese, there are chopped green onions and sliced black olives scattered evenly. A scoop has been taken out from the corner of the dish, showing all the layers clearly. Around the dish, there are some yellow corn tortilla chips on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe is my go-to party starter because it’s a breeze to pull together but always looks impressive and tastes amazing. Plus, that creamy avocado smooths everything out perfectly.

Freshness in every layer: The avocado and salsa bring bright, natural flavors that really make this dip sing.
Easy layering: No cooking required, just assemble and let the flavors mingle for a bit—quick and simple!
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite extras like seasoned ground beef or switch up the cheese to suit your tastes.
Perfect crowd-pleaser: This dip always disappears fast, whether it’s game day or a casual get-together.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The beauty of this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe is in how well these ingredients complement each other — creamy, savory, tangy, and with just enough spice. When shopping, pick avocados that are ripe but not mushy and salsa that you really enjoy because it sets the flavor tone.

Flat lay of fresh refried beans spread smoothly on a simple white ceramic plate, a small mound of mashed ripe avocados with a halved lime nearby, a small white bowl of creamy sour cream mixed with taco seasoning, a small white bowl of bright red chunky salsa, a neat pile of shredded cheddar cheese, a small white bowl of sliced black olives, a small white bowl of chopped green onions, and a handful of crisp golden tortilla chips arranged symmetrically around the bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Refried beans: This base layer anchors the dip and adds heartiness; go for your favorite canned brand or homemade if you have the time.
Avocados: The star of the show—ripe avocados mashed with lime juice prevent browning and add rich creaminess.
Lime juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the avocado and keeps it fresh-looking longer.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the avocado layer just right.
Sour cream: Mixed with taco seasoning for a cool, flavorful creamy layer.
Taco seasoning: Adds a subtle Mexican spice flavor that ties the dip to traditional taco elements.
Salsa: Brings freshness and a touch of heat; chunky or smooth works based on preference.
Cheddar cheese: Sharpness and melty texture with a Mexican blend option to spice things up.
Black olives: Their briny bite adds a nice contrast against the other creamy layers.
Green onions: For a fresh crunch and pop of color on top.
Tortilla chips: Your perfect vehicle for scooping up every delicious layer.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love that this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe is basically a blank canvas. I often mix in some cooked, seasoned ground beef for a heartier version when I know we’ll want leftovers. You can switch up the cheese or add jalapeños if you like it spicy. You’ll enjoy making it your own.

Variation: Adding seasoned chicken or swapping in a dairy-free sour cream has worked great for me when hosting friends with different dietary preferences.
Seasonal tweaks: In summer, I sometimes stir fresh corn kernels or chopped tomatoes into the salsa for extra texture and color.
Difficulty levels: This recipe is super beginner-friendly but can be dressed up with fresh homemade beans or pico de gallo if you want to impress.

Step-by-Step: How I Make 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe

A white plate filled with layered dip showing at least three clear layers: the bottom layer is a creamy, light beige refried bean mix with visible black olive slices, the middle layer has a bright red chunky salsa made of tomato, and the top layer is covered with shredded orange cheddar cheese and sliced green jalapenos, along with black olive rings scattered on top. A woman's hand is holding a yellow triangular corn chip scooping into the dip, and there are more corn chips in the background. The surface is white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Layer the Refried Beans

Start by spreading the refried beans evenly across the bottom of your serving dish. I like to use an 8-inch square glass dish because it’s just the right size and makes the layers shine through. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to smooth it out nicely—this is your base, so even coverage is key for each scoop to have beans.

Step 2: Prepare and Layer the Avocado

Mash the ripe avocados in a bowl and mix in freshly squeezed lime juice—this keeps the guacamole from browning quickly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread this over the refried beans gently so you don’t mix the layers but still get an even, creamy layer.

Step 3: Mix and Add the Sour Cream Layer

Combine the sour cream with taco seasoning until well-mixed. This adds a lovely flavor punch compared to plain sour cream. Spread this over the guacamole layer carefully with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Spread the Salsa and Cheese

Next, carefully spoon and spread the salsa on top of the sour cream. I try not to let it sink in too much to keep layers visible. Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese evenly over the salsa—if you want melty cheese, you can briefly broil it, but I usually prefer it fresh and cool.

Step 5: Top with Olives and Green Onions

Scatter sliced black olives and then chopped green onions over the cheese layer for bursts of briny flavor and freshness. They also give the dip a lovely, festive look.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

You can serve this right away, but I always recommend chilling the dip for about an hour in the fridge. It lets all those flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even better. Serve with your favorite tortilla chips, and watch it disappear!

Top Tip

From my many years of making this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe, I learned that even layering and proper seasoning make all the difference between a decent dip and one that people rave about. Here are a few tips that really helped me nail it every time.

Use ripe but firm avocados: Overripe ones get mushy and watery, which ruins the texture of the guacamole layer.
Taco seasoning in sour cream: It’s a small touch but big on flavor, adding an extra hit of spice without overwhelming the dip.
Chill before serving: Letting the assembled dip rest helps the flavors to blend — don’t skip this step!
Don’t mix layers: When spreading, be gentle to keep neat, distinct layers that look as good as they taste.

How to Serve 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little extra chopped cilantro or a few jalapeño slices on top for a fresh, slightly spicy finish. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brightens the whole dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Besides the classic tortilla chips, I like serving this dip alongside veggie sticks like bell peppers, cucumber slices, or even crispy pita triangles for variety. It’s great with cold beer or a sparkling soda on game day too.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve arranged each layer in clear glass jars or mini dishes for individual servings. It’s visually stunning and helps control portions. Another fun idea is spreading it into a festive platter shaped like a football or heart for themed occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers I cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to avoid avocado browning and store in the fridge. It keeps well for about 1-2 days, though the texture softens a bit over time.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this dip because the avocado and sour cream layers don’t hold up well after thawing — they tend to separate and get watery.

Reheating

This dip is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t really necessary. If you want to revive leftovers, just let it sit out for 20 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to a few hours before your event. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate to keep the layers fresh and appetizing.

What’s the best way to keep the avocado from browning?

Mixing the mashed avocado with fresh lime juice helps slow browning. Also, press plastic wrap directly onto the guacamole layer to limit air exposure if storing leftovers.

Can I make a dairy-free version of this dip?

Yes, swap the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut or cashew-based sour cream, and use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese layer altogether.

What kind of chips work best with this dip?

Classic tortilla chips are perfect for scooping all the layers. For a healthier option, try baked chips or cut veggies like bell peppers and carrots.

Final Thoughts

I honestly love making this 7 Layer Dip Recipe with Avocado and Salsa Recipe because it brings everyone together—whether it’s at parties, family gatherings, or just a casual night in. It’s easy, tasty, and you can tailor it exactly how you like it. Give it a try next time—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears, and you’ll feel like a dip superstar!