📝 About This Recipe
This iconic Tex-Mex masterpiece is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring a harmonious stack of vibrant textures and bold, cooling flavors. Each scoop delivers a perfect vertical slice of smoky beans, zesty citrus-infused guacamole, and velvety spiced cream, making it the undisputed king of game-day appetizers. Our version elevates the classic by using fresh aromatics and a signature seasoned sour cream layer that ensures every bite is balanced and unforgettable.
🥗 Ingredients
The Foundation (Bean Layer)
- 16 ounces Refried beans (traditional or vegetarian)
- 1 tablespoon Taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons Water or lime juice (to loosen the texture)
The Creamy Core
- 16 ounces Sour cream (full-fat recommended)
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (adds silkiness)
- 1 tablespoon Taco seasoning
- 3 Ripe Hass avocados (pitted and peeled)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic salt
The Fresh Toppings
- 1.5 cups Pico de gallo or thick salsa (well-drained to prevent sogginess)
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 2.25 ounces Black olives (sliced and drained)
- 2 Roma tomatoes (seeded and diced)
- 4 Green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup Pickled jalapeños (optional, for heat)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the refried beans, 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, and 2 tablespoons of water or lime juice. Heat for 1 minute just to soften, stir until smooth, and let cool slightly.
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2
Spread the seasoned bean mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch glass baking dish or a large shallow platter. This serves as the sturdy base for your dip.
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3
In a medium bowl, mash the three avocados with 2 tablespoons of lime juice and garlic salt until you reach your desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
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4
Carefully spread the guacamole over the bean layer, pushing it all the way to the edges of the dish to 'seal' the beans.
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5
In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning until completely combined and streak-free.
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6
Dollop the sour cream mixture over the guacamole layer and use an offset spatula to spread it gently, being careful not to mix the green and white layers.
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7
Place your salsa or pico de gallo in a fine-mesh strainer and let it sit for 5 minutes to remove excess liquid. This is a crucial step to prevent a watery dip.
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8
Scatter the drained salsa evenly over the sour cream layer.
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9
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the salsa, creating a vibrant orange blanket.
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10
Layer the diced tomatoes and sliced black olives over the cheese.
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11
Finish the dish by garnishing with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. If you enjoy a kick, scatter the pickled jalapeños on top.
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12
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always drain your salsa and diced tomatoes thoroughly in a colander to prevent a 'puddle' from forming at the bottom of the dish. Use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for the best structural integrity; low-fat versions tend to be runnier. For the best flavor, grate your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch which can dull the flavor. If making more than 4 hours in advance, ensure the guacamole layer is completely covered by the sour cream to prevent oxidation (browning). To create clean, professional-looking layers, use a clear glass dish so guests can see the colorful stratification.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with thick-cut 'scoopable' tortilla chips or sturdy corn chips to handle the weight of the layers. Pair with a crisp Mexican Lager or a fresh lime margarita to cut through the richness of the cream and avocado. For a lower-carb option, serve alongside chilled cucumber slices or bell pepper wedges. Offer a side of hot sauce for guests who want to customize their heat level. Keep the dish nestled in a larger bowl of ice if serving outdoors at a barbecue to keep the dairy fresh.