Easy 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe: A Fun Party Treat

Layered party dips have never tasted as adorable as these charming 7 layer dip cups that promise bite-sized excitement.

Small mason jars create the perfect portable container for this crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Guests will love picking up their personal portion without messy sharing.

Colorful ingredients stack beautifully, creating a visual feast before the first taste.

Mexican-inspired flavors combine in a compact presentation that makes snacking effortless.

Creamy beans, zesty salsa, and crisp toppings mingle together for maximum deliciousness.

You can totally impress everyone at your next gathering with these individual masterpieces.

Answers to 7 Layer Dip Cup Questions

• How do I prevent the layers from mixing together?

Chill the dip cups in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes between each layer. This helps set the layers and keeps them distinct and neat.

• Can I make these 7 layer dip cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just add the final toppings like green onions right before serving.

• What are the best cups or glasses to use for this recipe?

Clear plastic cups or glass shooter glasses work best. They allow you to see the beautiful layered colors and make for an attractive presentation. Make sure they’re around 3-4 ounces in size.

• Is there a way to make these dip cups vegetarian?

Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Ensure your refried beans are vegetarian, and all other ingredients remain the same for a delicious vegetarian version of the dip cups.

7 Layer Dip Cups Made for Party Snacking

• Serve individual dip cups that eliminate messy scooping and make portion control a breeze for gatherings and potlucks.
• Assemble these colorful layers in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients, perfect for last-minute entertaining or game day snacks.
• Easily adapt ingredients to suit dietary preferences or swap out toppings based on personal taste, making it versatile for different palates.
• Create an interactive appetizer where guests can grab their own cup, appealing to both children and adults with its playful presentation and familiar flavors.

Everything You Need for 7 Layer Dip Cups

• Refried Beans: Creamy base for the dip, providing rich and hearty texture. Canned or homemade works well.
• Taco Seasoning: Adds zesty Mexican-style flavor to the beans. Choose low-sodium options for better control.

• Sour Cream, Guacamole: Smooth and tangy layers that add richness and cooling effect. Fresh guacamole tastes best.

• Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar or Mexican blend adds sharp flavor and melty texture. Shred from block cheese for best results.
• Salsa: Fresh or jarred adds bright, zesty tomato flavor. Choose mild or spicy based on preference.
• Black Olives: Salty and briny element that provides contrast. Sliced or chopped work perfectly.
• Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor that adds color and brightness. Use green parts for milder taste.

Assembly Steps for 7 Layer Dip Cups

Step 1: Spice Up the Beans

Mix refried beans with taco seasoning in a mixing bowl until the flavors are thoroughly blended and the beans are evenly coated.

Step 2: Build Your Dip Cup Foundation

• Seasoned beans as the first base layer
• Creamy guacamole spread evenly
• Cool sour cream
• Zesty salsa
• Melty shredded cheese
• Sliced black olives
• Chopped green onions as the final garnish

Step 3: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dip cups for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This allows the ingredients to settle and become more cohesive.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy

Right before serving, you can add a few extra green onion sprinkles on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve with tortilla chips or crispy corn chips for scooping.

Tips to Keep 7 Layer Dip Cups Neat and Tasty

• Customize Bean Flavor: Experiment with different types of taco seasoning or add a pinch of cumin and chili powder to give the refried beans a more complex, zesty taste.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly made guacamole and salsa for a vibrant, restaurant-quality flavor that elevates the entire dip experience.
• Control Portion Sizes: Use clear plastic or glass cups to create visually appealing layers and help guests track their serving sizes easily.
• Make Ahead and Chill: Prepare the cups up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together, making them perfect for party prep.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use vegan cheese, or create a gluten-free version by checking seasoning ingredients.

Store 7 Layer Dip Cups Without Losing Flavor

• Store leftover 7 Layer Dip Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep them covered to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Skip freezing these cups since the fresh ingredients like sour cream and guacamole will separate and lose their creamy texture when thawed.
• If possible, store each ingredient separately to maintain the best quality and prevent ingredients from getting soggy.
• Before enjoying leftovers, let the dip sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes and give a quick stir to redistribute the layers and restore their original texture.

What to Serve with 7 Layer Dip Cups

• Pair these zesty 7 Layer Dip Cups with crisp, refreshing beverages and complementary dishes that elevate the Mexican-inspired appetizer.
• Blend a classic margarita with fresh lime and salt rim to cut through the rich, creamy layers and enhance the spicy bean base.
• Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips or homemade corn chips to provide textural contrast and a perfect scooping vehicle for the layered dip.
• Add grilled chicken skewers or mini street corn bites to round out the appetizer experience with additional Mexican-inspired flavors that complement the dip's bold profile.

Layered Dip Cup Variations Worth Trying

• Gluten-Free Fiesta: Replace regular taco seasoning with a certified gluten-free blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this party-perfect appetizer.
• Vegan Layer Love: Swap refried beans with black bean puree, use dairy-free sour cream alternative, replace cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds, and add plant-based protein for a completely vegan-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Crisp Option: Skip traditional cups and serve layers in lettuce cups or cucumber boats, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining the classic 7 layer dip flavor profile.
• Protein Power Boost: Incorporate ground turkey or shredded chicken between bean and guacamole layers to add extra protein, making the appetizer more substantial and satisfying for fitness enthusiasts.

7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired 7 layer dip cups deliver a compact flavor explosion of creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, tangy sour cream, and fresh toppings. Guests can enjoy individual portions with bold southwestern flair, perfect for parties or game day gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Layer Ingredients:

• 1 (16 ounces/454 grams) can refried beans
• 1 ½ cups guacamole (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups sour cream

Cheese and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• ½ cup sliced black olives
• ½ cup chopped green onions

Seasoning and Salsa Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 cup chunky salsa or pico de gallo (drained slightly)

Additional Serving Item:

• Tortilla chips, for serving
• 8–10 small clear plastic cups (8 ounces/237 milliliters size)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the seasoned beans by vigorously stirring taco seasoning into refried beans until thoroughly integrated, creating a flavorful base for the layered appetizer.
2. Select clear serving cups and establish a solid foundation by carefully spreading a uniform layer of the spiced bean mixture along the bottom of each container.
3. Craft a smooth, creamy guacamole layer directly atop the seasoned beans, ensuring even distribution across the entire surface of the cup.
4. Delicately spread a rich, velvety sour cream layer over the guacamole, maintaining a consistent thickness throughout each individual serving.
5. Gently spoon fresh salsa across the sour cream, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to create an appealing visual dimension.
6. Generously sprinkle a cascade of shredded cheese, covering the salsa layer completely and adding a tantalizing dairy-rich element.
7. Enhance the visual and flavor profile by scattering finely chopped black olives across the cheese layer, providing a contrasting dark accent.
8. Finish the dip cups with a garnish of freshly sliced green onions, adding a crisp, sharp note that complements the layered ingredients.
9. Chill the assembled dip cups for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop before serving with tortilla chips or crackers.

Notes

• Choose soft, creamy avocados for the smoothest guacamole base that spreads easily in the cup.
• Drain salsa thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the layers soggy and compromising the dip’s structural integrity.
• Prepare ingredients in advance and chill the cups for at least an hour to let flavors meld and enhance the overall taste profile.
• Customize the layers for dietary needs by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or swap cheese with a vegan alternative for plant-based guests.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: None
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg