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Easy 7-Layer Dip with Chorizo

easy 7-layer dip with chorizo - featured image

This easy 7-layer dip with chorizo is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring spicy chorizo, creamy layers, and fresh toppings. Perfect for game day or a quiet weeknight, it comes together in about 20 minutes and is always a hit.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh chorizo (Mexican-style, casings removed if in links)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine, finely chopped)
  • 1 medium tomato, diced and seeded
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions (both white and green parts)
  • 1/2 cup fresh salsa (drained)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • Tortilla chips, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the chorizo: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo (remove casings if in links) and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply browned and crispy. Drain off excess fat using a paper towel-lined plate or a slotted spoon. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the bean layer: In a small bowl, mix the refried beans with chili powder, garlic powder, and water. Stir until smooth and spreadable. Microwave for 30 seconds if needed to make it easier to spread. Spread evenly in the bottom of your serving dish.
  3. Make the creamy base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a fork until smooth. Add the sour cream and taco seasoning, and mix until fully combined. It should be thick but spreadable. If it’s too stiff, add a tablespoon of milk or water.
  4. Layer the cream cheese mixture: Spread this evenly over the bean layer. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to get it smooth. Don’t press too hard or you’ll mix the layers.
  5. Add the chorizo: Sprinkle the cooked chorizo evenly over the cream cheese layer. Press down gently so it sticks.
  6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the chorizo. Be generous—this is the gooey, melty layer everyone loves.
  7. Add fresh toppings: Layer the shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sliced olives, and green onions. Drizzle the drained salsa over the top. Add these right before serving to keep them crisp.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything. Serve immediately with tortilla chips. If making ahead, stop after step 6, cover, and refrigerate. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

Notes

Drain chorizo fat thoroughly to prevent soggy dip. Soften cream cheese at room temperature for best texture. Add fresh toppings just before serving to keep them crisp. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based chorizo. For a spicier dip, add diced jalapeño to the chorizo or cayenne to the cream cheese layer.

Nutrition

Keywords: 7-layer dip, chorizo dip, easy appetizer, game day dip, Mexican dip, party dip, layered dip