Confession: I am a bean dip junkie. I am addicted to bean and cheese combinations, and they’ve been a part of my life since I was little. Whether it’s a bean and cheese burrito or this 7-layer Mexican bean dip, I just can’t resist. My dad still tells the story of how the first thing I ever ordered on my own at a restaurant was a bean and cheese burrito when I was just 2.
I admit to hovering around the appetizer table, practically guarding the bean dip. I take more than my fair share, and when no one is looking, I’ve even been known to lick my plate. Clearly, I have an issue, but it’s one I’m perfectly happy to embrace. In fact, I confess that sometimes I even make this 7-layer bean dip for dinner! And once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why!
How to Make the 7-Layer Mexican Bean Dip
For my 7-layer Mexican bean dip, I first start with a 16 oz container of reduced-fat sour cream and a package of taco seasoning. I simply mix the two together. Oftentimes, I use my recipe for homemade taco seasoning rather than a packet. The homemade version has significantly less salt and no preservatives, so I think it tastes better. I usually use about 2 tablespoons worth.

Step 1: Layer the Base
Now I layer all the yummy Mexican ingredients into a 13×9 glass casserole dish:
- 2 14.5 oz cans of refried beans: The creamy and flavorful base that holds everything together.
- The sour cream taco seasoning mixture: A tangy and slightly spiced layer that adds richness.
- 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese: A savory layer of cheese that melts beautifully.
- 2 cups of guacamole: Creamy and fresh, I use my recipe for chunky restaurant-style guacamole for the best results.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds a juicy, refreshing pop of flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped onions: A little crunch and sharpness to balance the richness.
- Another 8 oz of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
Once all the layers are in place, this dip starts looking almost too good to eat… almost! The combination of these simple ingredients creates a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Step 2: Let the Kids Help
It’s as simple as that! In fact, it is so easy that my six-year-old can make this 7-layer Mexican bean dip! Nevaeh likes to help me in the kitchen, and this is an easy dish for her to be a part of. As I admitted earlier, we sometimes make this for dinner. I set the bean dip in the middle of the table with a bag of chips, and I heard nothing but crunching for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Customize Your Layers
Of course, this 7-layer Mexican bean dip is not limited to 7 layers! You can add nearly anything you want! I often add homemade cilantro lime salsa, green onions, cilantro, and olives. All you have to do is pop it into a 350-degree oven for about 30-40 minutes and wait until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It is soooooo irresistible!

Why 7-layer Mexican Bean Dip Is Always a Hit
If you have any holiday parties coming up, this 7-layer Mexican bean dip is always a popular choice. When I bring it to a potluck, it is always the first thing to go! Two other tried-and-true appetizers I use around the holidays are Crockpot spinach artichoke dip and bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers. Both are major crowd-pleasers and are really easy to make.

What is your favorite appetizer to serve? What is your go-to potluck dish? Drop me a line in the comment section below, and please share this recipe with your friends! If you need more ideas, please follow my Pinterest boards below or visit my recipe index. Happy cooking, y’all!



1 comment
Betty
Loved this recipe. Truly kids do love it as Heidi said! I made it plant-based using Kite Hill Greek-style plain almond milk yogurt instead of sour cream. I also used Daiya non-dairy Mexican style cheese.