PARTY FAVORITE

Seven Layer Dip Cups

Refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, tomatoes, and olives in individual containers for creamy, crunchy, party-ready bites.

Seven Layer Dip Cups portion refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, tomatoes, and olives into individual party servings. The cups are assembled cold and can be served immediately or covered and chilled briefly before serving.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings8
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the Seven Layers

  • 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 1/2 cups prepared guacamole
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup thick salsa, drained if watery
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives

For Garnish and Serving

  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • Tortilla chips

Substitutions

  • Seasoned mashed black beans can replace refried beans for a chunkier first layer.
  • Plain Greek yogurt or a thick dairy-free sour cream can replace sour cream.

Instructions

Step 1: Season the beans

Stir taco seasoning into the refried beans until smooth.

Season the beans for Seven Layer Dip Cups

Step 2: Prepare the cups

Set eight 9-ounce clear cups on a tray.

Step 3: Layer the dip

Divide the beans among the cups, followed by guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, tomatoes, and olives.

Layer the dip for Seven Layer Dip Cups

Step 4: Garnish

Top with green onions and cilantro.

Garnish for Seven Layer Dip Cups

Step 5: Chill or serve

Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours.

Finished Seven Layer Dip Cups ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Cover Seven Layer Dip Cups and refrigerate it promptly. Keep chips, crackers, or raw vegetables separate, and use the dip or layered cups within 2 to 3 days.

How to Serve It

  • Sturdy tortilla chips
  • Vegetable sticks
  • Other party dips
  • Fresh salsa

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using watery ingredients without draining them.
  • Layering warm components.
  • Letting chips sit in contact with the dip before serving.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 285
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 25g
Fat 18g
Sugar 4g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep Seven Layer Dip Cups from becoming watery?

Use thick guacamole and salsa, drain the salsa and diced tomatoes thoroughly, and assemble the cups with cool ingredients. Keep them refrigerated until serving.

Can Seven Layer Dip Cups be made ahead?

Yes. Assemble and cover them up to 4 hours ahead, then refrigerate. Add green onions, cilantro, or other delicate garnish shortly before serving.

How do I keep the guacamole from browning?

Mix it with a little lime juice and spread the sour-cream layer completely over the guacamole so very little air reaches its surface.

What cup size works best?

Nine-ounce clear cups make eight generous servings and leave room for dipping. Smaller 5-ounce cups also work for lighter appetizer portions and will produce more servings.

About the Author

Written and edited by the FreshFork Recipes Team.

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