Touchdown Tex Mex Layer Dip (Printable version)

Enjoy this vibrant, layered Tex-Mex dip. Packed with classic flavors, it's ideal for parties, game day, or any festive gathering.

# Ingredient list:

→ Base Layer

01 - 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
02 - 1 tablespoon 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

→ Guacamole Layer

07 - 2 large ripe avocados
08 - 2 tablespoons lime juice
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

→ Salsa Layer

12 - 1 cup chunky salsa, drained of excess liquid

→ Toppings

13 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
14 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
15 - 3/4 cup sliced black olives
16 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
17 - 1/2 cup sliced green onions
18 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
19 - Tortilla chips, for serving

# Directions:

01 - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the refried beans with the taco seasoning. Spread this mixture evenly across the base of a 9x13-inch glass dish or trifle bowl, forming the first layer.
02 - In a separate mixing bowl, blend the sour cream, softened cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic powder until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous. Carefully spoon and spread this creamy preparation over the refried bean layer.
03 - In another bowl, mash the ripe avocados with the lime juice and salt until well combined. Fold in the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro. Gently spread this freshly prepared guacamole over the creamy layer.
04 - Evenly spread the drained chunky salsa over the guacamole layer, ensuring a consistent distribution.
05 - Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the salsa layer.
06 - Distribute the sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions over the cheese layer. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
07 - Cover the assembled dip and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled with a generous supply of tortilla chips.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's an absolute lifesaver when you need something impressive but have zero time to cook.
  • This dip is a guaranteed party-starter; people always ooh and aah over how pretty it looks before diving in.
02 -
  • Don't skip draining that salsa a watery dip is a sad dip!
  • Letting it chill for at least an hour truly makes all the flavors sing together it's worth the wait.
03 -
  • Using a clear glass dish or trifle bowl really showcases those beautiful layers; it's a feast for the eyes before it's a feast for the palate.
  • If your kitchen is warm, chill your mixing bowl for a few minutes before blending the sour cream and cream cheese layer; it helps keep everything perfectly smooth.