Ultimate Layered Taco Dip (Print Version)

Festive dip combining creamy, zesty, and crunchy layers, ideal for casual gatherings and snacking.

# What You Need:

→ Base Layer

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

→ Salsa Layer

07 - 1 cup chunky salsa, drained of excess liquid

→ Toppings

08 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
11 - 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
12 - 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
13 - 1 medium avocado, diced (tossed with lime juice to prevent browning)
14 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
15 - Tortilla chips, for serving

→ Optional Protein Layer

16 - 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey, cooked with taco seasoning, cooled

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine refried beans with taco seasoning in a medium bowl, mixing thoroughly until well blended. Spread the seasoned bean mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch serving dish or trifle bowl, creating a smooth foundation.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, softened cream cheese, lime juice, and garlic powder until completely smooth and free of lumps. Spread this creamy layer evenly over the bean base using a spatula.
03 - Spoon the drained chunky salsa over the creamy layer, spreading gently to maintain distinct layers. Be careful not to press too hard and mix the layers together.
04 - If using the optional meat layer, spread the cooled, seasoned ground beef or turkey evenly over the salsa layer as the next stratum.
05 - Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top layer, ensuring complete coverage.
06 - Distribute diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, sliced green onions, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro generously over the cheese layer as the final garnish.
07 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with tortilla chips for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The layer by layer construction means every chip gets the perfect ratio of all seven textures and flavors
  • It sits beautifully on a buffet table and actually tastes better after chilling for an hour
  • You can assemble it the night before and just add the final fresh toppings before guests arrive
02 -
  • Soggy chips happen if you skip draining the salsa so do not rush this step even if it feels tedious
  • The layers will slide together if people dig too aggressively so provide small spoons alongside the chips
  • Avocado must be added last or you will serve a brown tinged dip that looks less than appetizing
03 -
  • Rinse your black olives and drain them on paper towels to prevent purple streaks through your cheese layer
  • Use a piping bag for the cream cheese layer if you want restaurant perfect clean lines

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