Layered dips - whether you go for a total of five, six or seven - are fantastic complements to a big bag of tortilla chips and are always crowd pleasers. There is always at least one element that will appeal to everyone's tastes and, more often than not, it is the combination of everything that makes the dip a real winner.
There are a couple of different ways to make this dip and each results in a different number of layers. The basic version of the dip will have four layers: refried beans, salsa, guacamole and sour cream. Additional layers of any of those ingredients, as well as cheese, black olives, green onions and even cooked ground beef can be added to increase the layering, with the most popular number being seven.
The flavor of beef works beautifully with the other ingredients, but for a dip that can sit out at room temperature for a couple of hours after being served, it seems best to avoid it. A good substitute, which I used in this particular dip, is Yves Veggie Ground, either original or Mexican flavor, which adds a beefy flavor and texture without involving any meat.
Multi-Layer DipThe amounts will vary based on the size of the container and the size of the crowd, so be flexible with the amounts!
2 cups refried beans
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
Yves Veggie Ground, either original or Mexican (optional)
2 avocados
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/2 cups hot tomato salsa
1 1/2 cups sour cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
1 bag tortilla chips
Mix jalapeno pepper and refried beans in a small bowl and spread evenly into a round, flat bottomed bowl. The beans are usually already seasoned with at least salt and pepper, but add a pinch of each if they're too bland.
Add layer of Yves Veggie Ground, if using.
Mash avocados with lime juice, salt and garlic powder. Spread on top of beans and "meat."
Spread tomato salsa on top of avocado layer. Top with sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
Serve with tortilla chips.
Want more? Try the Seven Layer Version with beef or without.
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