Hey there, buddy! So, let me tell you about this Marry-Me 7 Layer Dip. I first whipped it up for a casual backyard BBQ, and let me tell you, it was the star of the show. Everyone was digging in like it was a treasure chest of flavor. My aunt even asked if there was some secret ingredient. Just between us, there’s no secret—just layers of deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This
I make this dish whenever I want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. My family goes nuts for it, and I find myself making it again and again because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love layers of creamy, cheesy goodness? Plus, you get to dip into it with reckless abandon (and then deal with the cheesy fingers).
What You’ll Need
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans – any brand, but I like the spicy variety for a kick
- 1 cup sour cream – sometimes I swap this for Greek yogurt if I’m feeling health-conscious
- 1 cup guacamole – homemade or store-bought, either works
- 1 cup salsa – mild, medium, or hot, depending on your crowd
- 1 cup shredded cheese – cheddar or a Mexican blend is great
- 1 can (2.25 oz) sliced black olives, drained
- 2 green onions, chopped – adds a nice pop of color
- 1 small tomato, diced – optional, but I think it adds a refreshing crunch
How to Make It
- Spread the refried beans at the bottom of your serving dish. It’s the foundation—you know, like building a house.
- Smooth over the sour cream. I usually sneak a taste here (quality control, you know).
- Add the guacamole layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even; it all blends together in the end!
- Spoon on the salsa, letting it cascade over the guac. Now it’s starting to look like a party.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Be generous, because cheese is love.
- Scatter the olives, green onions, and diced tomatoes (if using) over the cheese. Now it looks like a fiesta!
My Notes
Once, I tried using a low-fat cheese, but it didn’t melt quite right. Stick with the good stuff here. Also, if your guacamole has a bit of a brown tint, stir in a little lime juice to freshen it up.
Fun Variations
I’ve tossed in some cooked chorizo for a spicier version, and it was a hit. But, once I tried adding jalapeños and it backfired—too much heat! Lesson learned.
What If You Don’t Have a Certain Tool?
No glass dish? No problem—use a pie plate or even a casserole dish. Honestly, anything with sides works. Just don’t use a flat platter unless you want a mess.
Can I Store It?
Sure, it lasts a couple of days in the fridge, but let’s be real – in my house, it never survives past the first day!
How to Serve It Up
We love serving it with crispy tortilla chips, but sometimes I throw in some carrot sticks for a healthier crunch (gotta please everyone, right?).
Learn from My Mistakes
Once, I rushed the layering and ended up with a soupy mess. Take your time with each layer; patience is key. Trust me, I learned the hard way.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You bet! Just keep it chilled and add the final toppings right before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Yes, just keep it as is or add some roasted veggies for extra flair.
Hope you enjoy making—and devouring—this Marry-Me 7 Layer Dip as much as I do! And if you’re looking for more party favorites, check out Simply Recipes for all sorts of inspiration or AllRecipes for endless ideas.
