Five Layer Dip was always more than just a party dish in our Tennessee kitchen—it was a centerpiece. I still remember standing on a stool, barely tall enough to see over the counter, watching Mama layer that Five Layer Dip into a glass dish like she was painting a picture. Refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, salsa, and a generous sprinkle of cheese—it all came together without a recipe, just instinct and love. She made her famous Five Layer Dip for football Sundays or any time folks were coming over, and it always disappeared first.
Now, I make it the same way for my own get-togethers, whether it’s a game night or a backyard cookout. It’s simple, but it hits every flavor note—creamy, spicy, cool, and hearty. There’s something about those five layers that just feels like home. One bite and I’m right back in that warm kitchen, helping Mama build something delicious, one scoop at a time.
Table of Contents
Five Layer Dip Recipe: Easy Tex-Mex Crowd Favorite
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Five Layer Dip is a cold, creamy Tex-Mex favorite made with refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, and fresh tomatoes—perfect for parties and game day snacks.
Ingredients
1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
4 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional)
1 ½ Tablespoons (1 packet) taco seasoning
1 cup guacamole
¾ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 Roma tomatoes, diced and drained of juices
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix refried beans with softened cream cheese and taco seasoning until smooth.
2. Spread the bean mixture into the bottom of a glass serving dish.
3. Layer guacamole evenly over the beans.
4. Spread sour cream gently over the guacamole.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sour cream layer.
6. Top with diced and drained Roma tomatoes.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.
Optional: Add black olives or green onions on top.
Use a clear dish to showcase layers for a great presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Layered, No Bake
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 dish
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Five Layer Dip, Tex-Mex Appetizer, Layered Dip, Party Food
Family Favorites with a Layered Twist
Why Five Layer Dip Is a Family Classic
Every dish has a story, and the Five Layer Dip holds one of my favorites. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t come from cookbooks but from memories—like watching Mama build it with the confidence of someone who’s made it a hundred times. In our Tennessee home, it wasn’t a party unless that glass casserole dish hit the table, layered to the brim with Tex-Mex flavor and ready for dipping.
I used to think the magic was in the cheese, but now I know it’s in the tradition. Back then, I’d help spread the layers, feeling proud to sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top. Mama never called it Five Layer Dip—it was just “the football dip.” But no matter the name, it had a place at every church gathering and game-day spread. It was a hit for its bold flavor and for the way it brought everyone to the same corner of the kitchen.
When I started making my own version, I kept the basics but added little twists. Sometimes I spoon it into individual cups for easy serving, or I mix taco seasoning into the sour cream for a little kick. And whenever it’s part of the menu, it pairs beautifully with other crowd-pleasers like my Buffalo Chicken Dip with Blue Cheese or a classic Rotel Dip Recipe. They create the perfect trio for any gathering.
Simple Ingredients, Big Tex-Mex Flavor
What makes Five Layer Dip so popular is how effortless it is to make—yet how bold it tastes. You’re not just stacking ingredients. You’re building flavor. Start with warm refried beans for a hearty base. Then comes guacamole, smooth and buttery. Add a layer of seasoned sour cream to cool things down. Top it off with spicy salsa or fresh pico de gallo, then finish with a generous helping of shredded cheese. Every bite hits different—savory, creamy, zesty, and just the right amount of crunch when you scoop it up with a tortilla chip.
You don’t need anything fancy to pull this off, which is part of its charm. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, but when they come together, they feel like something special. That’s the kind of recipe you keep coming back to—not just for the taste, but for the way it turns any table into the center of the party.
What’s in a Five Layer Dip?
The Core Five Layers (With Optional Extras)
At its heart, the Five Layer Dip is simple and satisfying. It’s made of five distinct, flavorful ingredients that stack up to create the perfect bite every time. The key is balance—rich beans, creamy elements, and a pop of freshness.
Here’s how each layer works:
- Refried beans: This forms the foundation. You can use canned refried beans or spice it up with homemade ones for deeper flavor.
- Guacamole: Cool and creamy, guacamole adds that buttery texture and a pop of freshness.
- Sour cream: Often mixed with taco seasoning, this layer mellows out the dip and blends beautifully with everything else.
- Salsa or pico de gallo: Adds brightness and a bit of kick. Chunky salsa works great, or go fresh with homemade pico.
- Shredded cheese: A layer of sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend finishes it off, melting slightly into the layers below.
Some folks like to take it further by adding chopped tomatoes, sliced olives, green onions, or even jalapeños. It’s flexible by design—something you can customize based on what you’ve got on hand or what your guests love.
Best Ingredient Tips & Substitutions
One of the reasons I love Five Layer Dip so much is because it’s forgiving. If you’re out of one layer, there’s usually a solid stand-in. No guac? Try smashed avocado with lime and salt. Don’t have salsa? A jar of enchilada sauce adds great depth. Want to make it heartier? Add a seasoned ground beef layer between the beans and guac.
If you’re prepping for a healthier crowd, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, or go vegan with plant-based cheese and dairy-free alternatives. Just keep the textures varied and the flavors bold.
And for an easy upgrade, try serving it alongside this Southwest Chicken Salad for a fresh, filling combo—or for a lighter option, check out the Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip to round out your snack table. These dips play well together and offer something for every guest.
No matter how you layer it, Five Layer Dip brings comfort and flavor to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t stay on the table long.
How to Make a Five Layer Dip (Step-by-Step)
Prep & Layering Instructions
Building a great Five Layer Dip isn’t about fancy tools or chef skills—it’s about the right order, clean lines, and letting each layer shine. I always start with the beans. If you’re using canned refried beans, warm them just a bit to make spreading easier. Layer them evenly in a glass baking dish; this helps show off the layers for presentation.
Next comes the guacamole. Spoon it gently over the beans and spread without pressing too hard. You don’t want to mix the layers. Then, in a small bowl, combine your sour cream with a teaspoon of taco seasoning or a dash of garlic powder for flavor. Spread that on top of the guacamole.
For the fourth layer, choose a thick salsa or fresh pico de gallo—anything too watery will run. Drain off excess juice before adding. Top everything with a generous helping of shredded cheese. I usually go for sharp cheddar or a Mexican blend, but you can add a little Monterey Jack if you like it extra creamy.
The dip is technically done here, but I always add a few final touches: diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, chopped green onions, or even jalapeños for some heat. Then cover and chill it for 30 minutes before serving.
Presentation & Flavor Boosting Hacks
If you want your Five Layer Dip to look as good as it tastes, always use a clear dish. A pie plate or an 8×8 square dish works beautifully. That way, your guests can see the colorful stripes of flavor from top to bottom. For parties, try layering the dip into small plastic cups—perfect for grab-and-go servings without the double dipping.
Want to elevate the flavor without complicating things? Add roasted corn or crumbled cotija cheese as garnish. Or go bold and swap in a layer of spicy chorizo or taco-seasoned ground beef under the guacamole.
I often serve this dip with crowd favorites like Boom Boom Sauce on the side or as part of a Tex-Mex table spread with Chipotle Chicken Sandwiches. These combinations turn any casual get-together into a mini fiesta.
No matter how you serve it, Five Layer Dip is always a showstopper. It’s got the flavor, the look, and the nostalgia packed into every scoop.
Serving, Storing, and Pairing This Dip
Best Ways to Serve Five Layer Dip
When it comes to serving Five Layer Dip, presentation matters—but so does practicality. I love to set it out in a clear glass dish so the vibrant layers are visible from the side. It adds a wow factor before anyone even grabs a chip. For larger parties or game days, serving it in individual plastic cups is a smart move. Everyone gets their own portion, and it keeps things clean and easy.
As for dippers, tortilla chips are the obvious choice—and the most popular. But don’t stop there. Try crunchy bell pepper slices, carrot sticks, or even thick-cut cucumber rounds for a fresher twist. This makes the dip more versatile, especially when you’re offering lighter or gluten-free options. You can even spoon it into tacos or use it as a topping on nachos.
If you’re building a full spread, I often pair it with hearty dishes like Chicken Poblano Soup or something comforting like my Taco Soup Recipe. These warm bowls complement the chilled dip and round out the table with bold Tex-Mex vibes.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Advice
The beauty of Five Layer Dip is how well it holds up in the fridge. You can prepare it up to 24 hours ahead of time, which makes party prep a breeze. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. I always chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving—this helps the layers set and the flavors meld.
If you’re including ingredients like tomatoes or pico de gallo, drain them well to avoid excess moisture. No one wants a soggy dip. Leftovers (if you have any!) will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge, but note that guacamole may brown a bit. A light layer of plastic wrap pressed against the top helps slow that down.
As tempting as it is, this dip isn’t freezer-friendly. The textures change and the layers separate once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled from the fridge. Serve it cold—it’s not a hot dip, and that’s part of its charm. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, just the way a good party food should be.
FAQ
What is Five Layer Dip made of?
A classic Five Layer Dip includes refried beans, guacamole, seasoned sour cream, salsa or pico de gallo, and shredded cheese. Each layer brings its own texture and flavor—hearty, creamy, tangy, spicy, and rich. It’s often topped with extras like diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, or chopped green onions. This combination creates a bold and balanced Tex-Mex appetizer perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
What is 7 layer bean dip made of?
While similar to Five Layer Dip, the seven-layer version adds two more ingredients. Typically, 7 layer dip includes: 1) refried beans, 2) guacamole, 3) sour cream, 4) salsa or diced tomatoes, 5) shredded cheese, 6) sliced black olives, and 7) chopped green onions or shredded lettuce. It’s essentially an expanded version of the five-layer favorite, offering even more texture and flavor. Both versions serve well at parties and are easy to make ahead.
Do you eat Five Layer Dip hot or cold?
Five Layer Dip is served cold or at room temperature. It’s not designed to be baked or heated like some cheese dips. The cold layers—especially the sour cream and guacamole—retain their texture and flavor best when chilled. Before serving, it’s ideal to refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to let the layers set. Always serve it fresh out of the fridge or shortly after taking it out for the best experience.
Does Costco have 7 layer bean dip?
Yes, Costco often carries a version of 7 layer bean dip in its prepared foods section. It’s typically sold in clear containers so you can see each layer. The ingredients are very similar to the homemade version: refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, olives, and green onions. It’s a popular option for parties and gatherings when you need a quick and ready-made appetizer
Conclusion
Whether you’re feeding a crowd on game day or just want something quick and satisfying, Five Layer Dip always delivers. It’s bold, simple, and made to share—just like the best kinds of recipes. Every bite gives you a taste of Tex-Mex comfort, from creamy guac to savory beans and the tang of salsa. And the best part? You don’t need to be a chef to pull it off. Just layer it up, chill, and let the chips do the rest. This is the kind of dip that turns casual hangouts into full-blown celebrations.
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