Classic Mexican 5 layer dip is always a crowd-pleaser and can be assembled in under 15 minutes. It’s a simple, flavorful appetizer that works for parties, game day, potlucks, or a casual taco night.
Chances are you’ve tried a 5 layer dip before. Similar to a 7 layer dip but with fewer toppings, this version is quick to make and always popular. The combination of creamy layers and crunchy chips is hard to beat, and this bean-based dip is one of the easiest and tastiest options to keep on hand.
With simple ingredients and about 10 minutes of hands-on time, this layered Tex-Mex dip delivers big flavor with almost no effort. It’s also very easy to customize to your taste or the ingredients you have on hand.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Fast to make. You can assemble this dip in less than 15 minutes.
- No cooking required. Each layer is simply spread, making preparation quick and fuss-free.
- Make-ahead friendly. Prepare it ahead of time so the flavors meld together before serving.
- Easy to customize. Swap or add toppings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
This 5 layer bean dip uses just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Refried beans: A 16-ounce can works well and makes spreading easy.
- Guacamole: Use store-bought or homemade.
- Chunky salsa: Chunky styles help keep the dip from becoming watery.
- Sour cream: Provides a cool, creamy layer.
- Taco seasoning: Stirred into the sour cream for an instant flavor boost.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar, pepper jack, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack all work well.
- Optional toppings: Diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, black olives, cilantro, or green onions.
How to make 5 layer dip
This simple dip comes together in a few straightforward steps.
- In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream and taco seasoning until well combined; set aside.
- Spoon and spread the refried beans evenly into a pie dish or an 8 x 8-inch baking dish.
- Spread the guacamole over the beans in an even layer.
- Spread the seasoned sour cream over the guacamole, then top with the chunky salsa.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the salsa and add any optional toppings you like (black olives, green onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, etc.).
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Recipe tips
A few simple tips will help this dip turn out great every time.
- Warm the refried beans slightly. Microwave for about 20–30 seconds to make spreading easier.
- Spread each layer evenly. Smooth layers make for a better-looking dip and consistent bites.
- Add fresh toppings last. Save ingredients like cilantro, tomatoes, or green onions for just before serving.
- Scale up for a crowd. Double the recipe and spread it in a 9 x 13-inch dish for larger gatherings.
Variations and substitutions
- Cream cheese version: Fold softened cream cheese into the refried beans for a richer base.
- Add meat: Layer cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier dip.
- Make it spicy: Mix diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the beans or salsa.
- Black bean alternative: Mash black beans in place of refried beans for a different texture.
- Pico de gallo: Swap the salsa for fresh pico de gallo for brighter flavor.
Storage instructions
Store: Keep leftovers covered or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Make ahead: Assemble the dip the night before to let the flavors meld; add fresh toppings just before serving for best texture.
More easy dip recipes
- Fiesta ranch dip
- Fiesta corn dip
- Refried bean dip
- Green chili dip
If you try this easy layered dip, feel free to share how it turned out in the comments.
5 Layer Dip
Ingredients
- 16 ounce can refried beans
- 13 ounce guacamole
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 16 ounce sour cream
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- 2 green onions, diced
- ¼ cup sliced pickled jalapenos
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
Instructions
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Spread the refried beans in a pie dish or 8 x 8 casserole dish.
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Spread the guacamole over the refried beans.
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In a bowl, mix together the sour cream with the taco seasoning until fully combined.
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Spread the sour cream over the guacamole.
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Spread the salsa over the sour cream.
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Top with shredded cheese and any additional toppings.
Notes
- Slightly warm the refried beans. Microwave about 20–30 seconds to ease spreading.
- Spread the layers evenly. Smooth, even layers improve presentation and bites.
- Add fresh toppings last. Finish with onions, cilantro, or tomatoes just before serving.
- Double for a crowd. Use a 9 x 13-inch dish when scaling up the recipe.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.