Nine Layer Dip Recipe
Make Nine Layer Dip Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Bean & Cheese Layers
Guacamole Layer
Salsa & Veggies
Olive & Olive Tapenade (optional)
Final Garnish
Method
Bean & Cheese Layers
Prepare cream cheese layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the sour cream until fully combined and smooth. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper if desired.
Assemble bean base
Spread the refried beans evenly in the bottom of a 9-inch (or similar) shallow serving dish, creating a smooth, level layer about 1/2 inch thick.
Add cream cheese layer
Gently spread the cream cheese and sour cream mixture over the refried beans in an even layer, taking care not to mix the two layers. Smooth the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Cheese layer
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
Guacamole Layer
Make the guacamole: halve and pit the avocados, scoop the flesh into a bowl and mash to a slightly chunky consistency. Stir in lime juice, salt, pepper, chopped red onion and chopped cilantro (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Spread the guacamole gently in a smooth, even layer over the cheddar cheese.
Salsa & Veggies
Add salsa: Spoon the salsa over the guacamole in an even layer, leaving a little space at the edges to keep layers tidy.
Scatter green onions: Evenly distribute the diced green onions over the tomato layer.
Olive & Olive Tapenade (optional)
Add olives: Sprinkle the sliced black olives and spoon small dollops of olive tapenade (or scatter chopped green olives) across the top of the dip to create contrasting flavor pockets.
Final Garnish
Finish and chill: Crumble queso fresco or feta over the top if using, then scatter the chopped cilantro. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld (can be chilled up to 4 hours).
Serve: Remove from refrigerator 10 minutes before serving. Serve with tortilla chips alongside small spoons for guests to scoop. Keep extra chips nearby; the dip yields about 8–10 appetizer servings.