Name: 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 16-ounce can refried beans; 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 8-ounce container sour cream; 1 cup chunky salsa (drained); 1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese; 1 2.25-ounce can sliced olives; 3-4 green onions, sliced; ¼ cup diced tomatoes; 2 Tablespoons diced jalapeno peppers (optional)

If you love party snacks that are bursting with flavor and color, you are going to adore this 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe. It takes the classic, crowd-pleasing 7 layer dip and transforms it into perfectly portioned individual cups packed with creamy refried beans, zesty guacamole, tangy sour cream, lively salsa, melty cheese, briny olives, fresh green onions, and vibrant tomatoes. Each bite offers a delicious medley of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a quick snack, these little cups bring all the festive excitement in one handheld delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ten ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are two whole avocados with dark green skin placed near the center, alongside a fresh lime. Below the avocados, a white bowl contains sliced black olives, and next to it is another white bowl filled with sliced green jalapeños in liquid. To the left, shredded yellow and white cheese sits in a white bowl, with a block of white cheese placed nearby. On the far left, there is a white bowl with beige refried beans and next to it, a white bowl holds red tomato salsa. A white bowl with white sour cream is near the top center. Cherry tomatoes on the vine are positioned around the center-left. On the right side, fresh green onions lie diagonally, and near the top right are a wooden salt container and a black pepper grinder. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients are all you need to create an irresistible 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe. Each element adds its own unique layer of flavor, texture, and color that makes this snack truly shine.

1 16-ounce can refried beans: The creamy, hearty base that anchors all the layers with rich flavor.
2 ripe avocados (peeled and pitted): For smooth, buttery guacamole that adds fresh creaminess.
Juice of 1 lime: Brightens the guacamole with tangy citrus notes and balances the richness.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every layer’s flavor.
1 8-ounce container sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy contrast that ties the dish together.
1 cup chunky salsa: A zesty, colorful layer packed with tomatoes, peppers, and spices.
1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese: Melts ever so slightly for delicious gooeyness and sharpness.
1 2.25-ounce can sliced olives: Adds a salty, briny pop that complements the other flavors beautifully.
3-4 green onions (sliced): Fresh herbal bite with a mild onion flavor.
¼ cup diced tomatoes: Provides juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons diced jalapeno peppers (optional topping): For a spicy kick if you like a little heat.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Guacamole

Start by creating the creamy guacamole layer. In a small bowl, mash the peeled and pitted avocados with the fresh lime juice. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix until everything is combined but still slightly chunky for the ideal texture. This layer adds a fresh, buttery base that perfectly balances the other rich ingredients.

Step 2: Layer the Refried Beans

Spoon the refried beans evenly into the bottom of each small cup or serving dish. This warm, hearty layer provides a satisfying base that holds all the other layers together and brings depth of flavor to each bite.

Step 3: Add Guacamole and Sour Cream

Gently dollop the guacamole over the refried beans, followed by a layer of sour cream. The sour cream adds a cool, tangy richness that cuts through the beans and avocado, keeping the layers perfectly balanced in taste and texture.

Step 4: Spoon in the Chunky Salsa

Before adding the salsa, drain any excess liquid to prevent sogginess. Spoon a generous layer of chunky salsa over the sour cream, adding vibrant color, juicy textures, and a lively mix of flavors including tomatoes, peppers, and spices.

Step 5: Top with Cheese, Olives, and Veggies

Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese on top so it gently melts with the residual chill. Scatter sliced olives, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes for delightful pops of flavor and color. Finish by adding diced jalapenos if you want a bit of heat. Chill the cups in the refrigerator until serving time, and optionally garnish each with a crisp tortilla chip for a festive touch.

How to Serve 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

The image shows five small round white plates, each holding a mini taco salad. Each salad has a bottom layer of crushed yellow tortilla chips, topped with shredded orange cheese, then a mix of small diced red tomatoes and green bell peppers, with sliced black olives scattered on top. The colors are bright and fresh, and the salads have a textured, layered look. The white marbled surface beneath the plates adds a clean and simple background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a single tortilla chip to the side or standing upright in each cup makes for a charming presentation and convenient scoop. Fresh cilantro leaves or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a gorgeous pop of color and extra aroma that elevates the experience.

Side Dishes

These dip cups pair wonderfully with crispy corn chips, crunchy veggie sticks like carrots or jicama, or even alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired mains like tacos or grilled chicken for a casual party spread full of variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe in clear mini mason jars or cute shot glasses for elegant individual portions. Layer colors show beautifully through the glass, turning a simple dip into an eye-catching appetizer that guests will love to grab and go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this dip has fresh ingredients like avocado and tomatoes, store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. Consume within 2 days for best texture and flavor, as the guacamole can brown slightly over time.

Freezing

This dip is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The creamy layers and fresh vegetables tend to lose their texture when frozen and thawed, so plan to enjoy it within a couple of days instead.

Reheating

If you prefer your dip slightly warm, you can gently heat just the refried beans before layering, but keep the rest of the layers chilled and fresh. Reheating the whole assembled dip is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I make the guacamole layer ahead of time without it browning?

Yes! Adding fresh lime juice helps prevent browning, but to keep it vibrant, cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface or store in an airtight container. Use within 24 hours for best color and taste.

What kind of beans can I use if I don’t have refried beans?

You can substitute with black beans or pinto beans that are mashed and seasoned to your liking. Refried beans provide that creamy texture, but a well-mashed bean blend works well too.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild and customizable. The optional diced jalapenos add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat, but you can omit them for a kid-friendly version or use milder peppers.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based sour cream and vegan cheese alternatives, and ensure your refried beans do not contain lard. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe makes approximately 8 servings, perfect for sharing at a party or casual get-together.

Final Thoughts

This 7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe is a total winner for bringing fun, flavor, and effortless convenience to your snack or party table. It’s one of those recipes that feels both special and totally doable, perfect for sharing with friends or simply enjoying your own little fiesta at home. Give it a try and watch how these colorful, tasty cups become an instant favorite everyone asks for again and again!

7 Layer Dip Cups

Ingredients You’ll Need