4-Way Layered Dip (Printable)

Multi-layered appetizer with beans, cream, salsa, and cheese—ready in 20 minutes for any gathering.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Base Layer

01 - 16 oz canned refried beans
02 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
03 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

→ Creamy Layer

04 - 1 cup sour cream
05 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
07 - 1/4 teaspoon 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

# Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine refried beans with ground cumin and chili powder. Spread mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch serving dish or shallow bowl.
02 - In another bowl, blend together sour cream, softened cream cheese, lime juice, and salt until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the bean layer.
03 - In a separate bowl, combine drained salsa, diced tomato, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Spoon this mixture evenly over the creamy layer, draining excess liquid if necessary.
04 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the salsa layer, then distribute black olives, diced green bell pepper, and sliced green onions across the top.
05 - Refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and layers to set. Serve with tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours but takes less time than ordering takeout.
  • Every scoop hits different textures and flavors all at once.
  • You can prep it early and let it sit in the fridge while you handle everything else.
  • People always go back for seconds, then thirds, then start hovering near the bowl.
02 -
  • Drain your salsa thoroughly or the whole dip will turn watery and sad within an hour.
  • Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing or you will end up with lumps no amount of stirring will fix.
  • Use a clear dish if you have one so people can see all the beautiful layers from the side.
03 -
  • Use a spatula to spread each layer gently so you don't disturb the one below it.
  • If you are taking this somewhere, assemble it in a dish with a lid so it travels without turning into a mess.
  • Taste the bean layer before spreading it, you might want more cumin or a pinch of salt depending on the brand.
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