Mexican 5 layer dip is a classic party appetizer that’s easy to make and loved by crowds. It features a vibrant combination of textures and flavors in a visually appealing layered presentation.

The typical layers include:

  • Refried beans: These provide a savory base and a creamy texture.
  • Sour cream: Adds a cool and tangy contrast to the beans.
  • Guacamole: Offers a burst of freshness and healthy fats.
  • Pico de gallo or salsa: Injects a layer of bright flavor and crunch with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
  • Shredded cheese: The final layer provides a salty and satisfying finish.

This crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for any occasion, from potlucks and game days to casual get-togethers. It’s also easily customizable with your favorite ingredients like olives, hot sauce, or different types of cheese.

Mexican 5 Layer Dip

Why You’ll Love this Mexican 5 Layer Dips

Craving a satisfying and guilt-free Mexican fiesta? Look no further than this clean-eating 5-layer Mexican dip! Layers of fresh, wholesome ingredients burst with flavor, offering a healthier twist on the classic favorite.

Freshness Takes Center Stage:

  • Black Bean Powerhouse: This recipe ditches the refried beans for a layer of protein-packed black beans, adding a satisfying heartiness without the added fat.
  • Vibrant Veggies: Freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers add a layer of crispness, vitamins, and vibrant color to the dip.
  • Creamy Delight: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt provides a cool and creamy contrast to the other layers, while keeping the fat content in check.

Flavorful and Guilt-Free:

  • Spice it Up: Customize your spice level with a sprinkle of your favorite taco seasoning or a dollop of chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
  • Better For You Fats: Avocado adds a touch of healthy fats and creaminess to the top layer, keeping you feeling satisfied.
  • Clean and Simple: This recipe uses wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a clean-eating approach.

Perfect for Any Gathering:

  • Easy to Make: Whip up this dip in minutes, making it a stress-free crowd-pleaser for parties, potlucks, or a quick and healthy snack attack.
  • Visually Appealing: The layered presentation adds a touch of elegance, making this dip a delightful addition to any party spread.
  • Light and Refreshing: This dip is a lighter alternative to heavier dips, making it perfect for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence.

So ditch the greasy store-bought options and embrace the clean-eating revolution with this flavorful and healthy 5-layer Mexican dip!

I have a secret, well – not so much a secret, but a lifestyle I love and adore that my blog doesn’t always follow.

I love clean eating.

I worry a lot about snacks and calories and preservatives when it comes time for parties and such. I found this awesome dip early in the year and we made it several times – Super Bowl Sunday, 4th of July, Labor Day and now for New Years.

Also, in case you were wondering – I don’t live a 100% Clean Eating lifestyle by any stretch of the imagination, BUT I do try very hard to make everything from scratch so as to avoid most preservatives, etc.

Anyway, about that yummy dip.

Add In’s and Substitutions for Mexican 5 Layer Dip

The beauty of a 5-layer Mexican dip lies in its versatility! Here are some exciting additions to take your dip from classic to extraordinary:

Level Up the Layers:

  • Bean Layer: Swap refried beans for a layer of black beans with corn and chopped bell peppers for a fresher and more textural base.
  • Sour Cream Layer: For a tangier twist, mix chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice into the sour cream. Alternatively, try a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a lighter and protein-packed option.
  • Guacamole Twist: Get creative with your guacamole! Add chopped roasted vegetables like corn or poblano peppers, or a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for a salty contrast.
  • Salsa Sensation: Move beyond the classic pico de gallo. Try a mango salsa for a burst of sweetness, or a black bean and corn salsa for a heartier option.
  • Cheesy Delights: Don’t limit yourself to shredded cheddar! Explore queso fresco for a crumbly texture, or a blend of pepper jack and Monterey Jack cheese for a kick of spice.

Bonus Toppings:

  • Fresh Options: Chopped fresh cilantro, sliced black olives, or a dollop of crumbled avocado add vibrant color and freshness.
  • Pickled Delights: A sprinkle of pickled jalapenos or red onions adds a tangy and spicy kick.
  • Crunchy Contrast: A sprinkle of chopped roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or sunflower seeds adds a delightful textural contrast.
  • Spicy Touches: For those who like it hot, drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of sriracha.

Don’t Forget the Dippers:

  • Classic Chips: Tortilla chips are the go-to choice, but feel free to experiment with plantain chips, baked pita chips, or even crudités like sliced carrots and cucumber.

With these creative additions and toppings, you can create a Mexican 5-layer dip that’s uniquely your own. So unleash your inner chef, have fun experimenting, and impress your guests with a flavor explosion in every bite!

Making this Recipe

For the record, this is so yummy. I did use some garlic to flavor the beans and the avocado mixture though. I felt like it needed a little something and garlic is my favorite spice.

Mexican 5 Layer Dip

Mexican Five Layer Dip

Nicole Cook
Mexican 5 layer dip is a classic party appetizer that's easy to make and loved by crowds. It features a vibrant combination of textures and flavors in a visually appealing layered presentation.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizers, Snacks and Small Bite Recipes
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 15
Calories 161 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pinto beans
  • 3 medium tomatoes seeded and chopped (about 2 1/2 cups)
  • 1 small white onion chopped (about 3/4 cup)
  • 2 to 3 jalapeño peppers seeded and chopped (about 1/3 cup)
  • ¾ cup cilantro leaves chopped, divided
  • 2 limes juiced and divided
  • ½ teaspoons sea salt plus additional to taste, divided
  • Fresh ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 avocados pitted and peeled
  • 6 ounces cheddar cheese grated (about 1½ cups)
  • 1 ½ cups sour cream

Instructions
 

  • Rinse beans in a colander and pick through, discarding any debris or small stones. Place in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover beans. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 2 minutes. Turn off heat and let beans rest for 1 hour. Drain beans in a colander and rinse. Wash saucepan, return beans to saucepan and add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low to maintain a steady simmer. Cover and cook for 1½ to 2 hours or until beans are very tender. Reserve about 2/3 cup cooking liquid, drain beans and set aside to cool. (Or, cover and refrigerate beans in their cooking liquid for up to 4 days. Reserve 2/3 cup liquid and drain before proceeding with recipe.)
  • In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeños and about two-thirds of cilantro. Squeeze juice of 1 lime over tomato mixture and season, to taste, with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
  • In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, remaining cilantro and remaining juice of 1 lime. Purée until slightly chunky. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Set aside.
  • Place beans and 1/3 cup reserved cooking liquid in a food processor (or use a powerful blender or mash by hand with a potato masher). Process until you have a slightly chunky purée, adding additional cooking liquid, 1 tbsp at a time, as needed to reach desired consistency. Add 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper. Pulse several times to combine.

Putting It All Together

  • Transfer beans to a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish or large glass bowl and spread into an even layer.
  • Sprinkle cheese evenly over beans. Dollop scoops of avocado mixture over cheese and use a spatula to spread into a thin layer. Dollop scoops of sour cream over avocado and spread into a thin layer. With a slotted spoon (to drain any liquid), spread tomato mixture evenly over sour cream. Serve immediately or cover and chill for up to 4 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 161kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 163mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 580IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 119mgIron: 1mg
Keyword easy appetizers, easy dip recipes
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7 Comments

    1. @Leigh It is! So good! I wish the photos had been better but the good camera needed a battery charge and well, I’m injured at the moment so I couldn’t make it all “pretty” in the background.
      At any rate, it’s not only delicious, but it’s a beautiful centerpiece too!! 🙂 haha

  1. This looks yummy and follows my plan. I also found Lentil chips at Trader Joe’s which seem healthier than most chips on the market.

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