Dessert

7 Layer Dip Cups Recipe

Bylilan Sage November 23, 2025November 23, 2025

Introduction

These 7 Layer Dip Cups are a convenient and colorful way to enjoy a classic party favorite. Each individual cup is filled with layers of creamy beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, and fresh toppings, perfect for easy serving and no mess. They’re great for gatherings or a fun snack at home.

A clear cup holds a five-layer dip set on a white marbled surface, with a wooden tray underneath. The bottom layer is a smooth dark brown refried bean spread, topped by a bright green guacamole layer with visible small chunks. Above this is a thick white creamy layer, likely sour cream, followed by a chunky red salsa layer. The top is decorated with sliced black olives, bright red tomato pieces, and chopped fresh green cilantro. Next to the cup, several pale yellow tortilla chips lean against it. In the blurred background, there are fresh cilantro leaves and whole tomatoes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz. refried beans (1 can)
1 oz. taco seasoning (1 packet)
2-4 tbsp heavy cream
8 oz. Fiesta blend shredded cheese, divided (1 bag)
16 oz. guacamole (1 container)
16 oz. sour cream (1 large tub) or plain Greek yogurt
1 cup chunky salsa
2.25 oz. sliced black olives (1 small can; if oil-packed, rinse them)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered (or any chopped tomatoes)
3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Tortilla chips (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Set out eight 9-ounce clear disposable cups for assembling the dip.
Step 2: In a large microwave-safe bowl, heat the refried beans in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning packet, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and ¼ cup of shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
Step 4: Stir occasionally until the beans cool enough to touch but remain spreadable. Add more heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed for consistency.
Step 5: Spoon about ¼ cup of the prepared bean mixture into each cup as the first layer.
Step 6: Transfer the guacamole to a piping bag or a sealable plastic bag with the corner cut off, then pipe a circle of guacamole around the edge of each cup on top of the beans. Fill the center with more guacamole and smooth into an even layer with a spoon.
Step 7: Repeat this piping and smoothing process with the sour cream layer on top of the guacamole in each cup.
Step 8: Pour ¼ cup of chunky salsa over the sour cream layer in each cup and gently spread to an even layer using a spoon.
Step 9: Sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese evenly on top of each salsa layer.
Step 10: Garnish each cup with 1 tablespoon sliced black olives, 1 tablespoon quartered cherry tomatoes, and 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Step 11: Optionally, add a tortilla chip into each cup for garnish and serve with extra tortilla chips on the side.

Tips & Variations

Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, protein-packed option.
If you prefer a spicier dip, add diced jalapeños to the salsa or sprinkle some cayenne pepper in the bean layer.
For a vegetarian version, ensure the taco seasoning does not contain meat-based ingredients.
To save time, prepare the bean mixture in advance and chill before layering.
Feel free to swap fresh cilantro for chopped parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.

Storage

Cover the assembled cups with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The layers may soften over time, so best enjoyed within a day for optimal texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing as the texture of the ingredients will be compromised.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a glass cup with four visible layers: the bottom layer is bright green and smooth, above it is a thick white layer, then a rich red sauce layer topped with fresh green chopped herbs, and lastly a soft round meatball dipped in creamy white and red sauce with melted orange cheese on top, placed near a large white-colored crisp chip. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dip cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip cups up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just note that the layers might soften slightly, so they are freshest when served within 24 hours.

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

If you don’t have refried beans, you can mash cooked black beans or pinto beans with a little olive oil and season them with taco seasoning to create a similar spreadable layer.

lilan Sage