4-Way Layered Dip (Printer-friendly)

This incredible multi-layered dip combines creamy, zesty, and crunchy elements, perfect for any party or gathering.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base Layer

01 - 1 can refried beans (16 oz)
02 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
03 - 1/2 tsp chili powder

→ Creamy Layer

04 - 1 cup sour cream
05 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
06 - 1 tbsp lime juice
07 - 1/4 tsp salt

→ Salsa Layer

08 - 1 cup chunky salsa, drained
09 - 1 medium tomato, diced
10 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
11 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Topping Layer

12 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
13 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
14 - 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
15 - 1/2 cup sliced green onions

# How to Make It:

01 - Combine refried beans, ground cumin, and chili powder in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until spices are evenly distributed. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch serving dish or shallow bowl, creating an even foundation layer.
02 - Whip together sour cream, softened cream cheese, lime juice, and salt in a separate bowl until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Gently spread this creamy mixture over the bean layer using a spatula, being careful not to disturb the base.
03 - Toss drained salsa, diced tomato, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro together in a bowl. Spoon this vibrant mixture over the creamy layer, ensuring any excess liquid is removed before adding to prevent the layers from becoming watery.
04 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously across the salsa layer. Distribute black olives, diced green bell pepper, and sliced green onions evenly over the cheese surface, creating an attractive, colorful presentation.
05 - Refrigerate the layered dip for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and layers to set. Serve chilled with tortilla chips, vegetable sticks, or your preferred dippers.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You can assemble everything in advance and just pull it out when guests arrive
  • Every layer offers a different texture and flavor that keeps people coming back for just one more bite
  • It serves a crowd without requiring any actual cooking or heating
02 -
  • Draining the salsa is probably the most important step nobody talks about
  • Letting the layers set up in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes makes a huge difference in how neatly people can scoop
  • A clear glass dish shows off those beautiful layers and makes the dip even more tempting
03 -
  • Sprinkle your cheese toppings right before serving so they do not get soft from the moisture in the salsa layer
  • Room temperature cream cheese blends much more smoothly than cold, so plan ahead
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