This vegan 7-layer dip layers creamy guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, crisp lettuce, and your favorite toppings, for a plant-based dip that will have everyone coming back for more! It’s a simple yet satisfying chip-dipping favorite perfect for any gathering — whether for game day, a potluck, or a casual get-together with friends.
I used to be the undisputed champion of classic 7-layer dip at potlucks. It was my claim to fame — a dish that vanished faster than you could say “guacamole.” (Okay, slight exaggeration, but you get the idea.) Seriously though, it was my go-to dish — easy to make and always a hit (and who doesn’t love coming home with an empty plate?). 😎
But as I started learning more about the impact of our food choices, I began to rethink my cheesy, sour cream-laden masterpiece.
Don’t get me wrong, I still wanted to indulge in a delicious dip, but I also wanted to feel good about what I was eating (and sharing with others!). So I set out to create a vegan 7-layer dip that was just as satisfying as the original but made with whole-food, plant-based ingredients.
Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun. And this recipe is proof that even a self-proclaimed “non-cook” (like my 20-year-old self) can transform classic recipes into plant-based masterpieces.
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Why you'll love this vegan 7-layer dip
- Easy to Make: This dip is super easy to assemble, perfect for those last-minute get-togethers. You can keep it super simple with store-bought ingredients or show off your skills by making everything from scratch — the choice is yours!
- Endless Options: Feel free to get creative and swap in your favorite toppings — vegan cheese, lime-drenched shredded cabbage, chopped jalapenos… the possibilities are endless!
- A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: This dip is always a hit, whether you’re hosting a game day bash, potluck, 4th of July celebration, or backyard barbecue.
- Did You Know? Research shows legumes (like the beans in this 7-layer dip!) are associated with a longer lifespan across cultures worldwide. So dig in — this delicious dip might be your secret to a healthier, happier life! You can learn more here: Increased Lifespan from Beans.
How to make Vegan 7-Layer Dip irresistibly dippable & plant-based
Spread the Homemade Refried Beans on the dish you will be using to serve this Vegan 7-Layer Dip.
Spread Homemade Guacamole over the refried beans. Homemade guacamole is always a winner, but store-bought works too!
Tip: To make your 7-Layer Dip look stunning, when you add each layer be careful not to completely cover the previous layer.
Spread over the Cashew Sour Cream
Then, spread over the Fresh Roasted Salsa
Spread over the Pico De Gallo Salsa.
Pico de gallo adds a burst of fresh flavor to the dip. Feel free to use store-bought if you’re short on time.
Top it off with a layer of crisp lettuce, pickles, green onions, and chips.
And there you have it — a delicious Vegan 7-Layer Dip that’s ready to party!
In the kitchen tips
- Bean Bonanza: Not sure which beans to use? Pinto beans are the classic choice, but black beans or even kidney beans work great too! For a flavor upgrade, try making your own homemade refried beans — it’s surprisingly easy!
- Guacamole Goodness: Use perfectly ripe avocados (they should yield to gentle pressure) and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Add a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
- Pico Perfection: Homemade pico de gallo is a flavor explosion, but store-bought works in a pinch.
- Lettuce or Lime-Kissed Cabbage? Finely chop romaine lettuce for a classic crunch, or shred green cabbage and toss it with lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Spice It Up (or Not): Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to your beans for a kick. But if you prefer it mild, feel free to skip the spice!
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dip is a meal prep dream! Prepare the base layers (refried beans, salsa, chopped lettuce) a day in advance, then add fresh guacamole and your favorite toppings right before serving for maximum flavor and freshness.
FAQ
Yes! Compared to traditional 7-layer dip, this vegan version is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients from ingredients like beans, avocado, and fresh vegetables. It’s a healthier alternative that’s lower in saturated fat and cholesterol.
There are many delicious vegan cheeses available! Look for a vegan shredded variety, try this cashew-based nacho cheese for a creamy texture, or this easy cheesyish salsa works amazing too!
Get creative! You can add chopped jalapeños, green or black olives, green onions, cilantro, diced tomatoes, diced cabbage, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, add the avocado and fresh toppings just before serving.
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip as the texture of the ingredients can change upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and consistency.
📖 Recipe
Vegan 7-Layer Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup homemade Refried Beans, OR 1 can store-bought refried pinto beans, see notes
- 1 cup homemade Guacamole, OR store-bought
- ½ cup homemade Sour Cream, OR vegan & dairy-free store-bought
- 1 cup homemade Fresh Roasted Salsa, OR store-bought
- 1 cup homemade Pico De Gallo, OR store-bought
- 1-2 cups finely chopped lettuce
- 2 chopped green onions, optional
- ¼ cup black olives, optional
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, optional
- ¼ cup jalapeños
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- Prepare the homemade refried beans.
- Prepare the guacamole.
- Prepare the pico de gallo.
- Dice optional ingredients if using.
- Use a serving dish of your choice. A pie dish, bowl, or baking dish works well.
- First, spread the refried beans to the edges.
- Repeat with a layer of guacamole on the beans. (See Notes)
- Repeat with a layer of salsa on top of the guacamole.
- Top with the lettuce.
- Layer the pico de Gallo, black olives, green onion, and cilantro.
- Serve with homemade or store-bought corn tortilla chips.
Notes
- If using, mix in ¼ cup of water to soften them. I like to warm them in canned refried beans a pan for easier spreading, though it’s optional.
- To keep your 7-Layer Dip looking great, do not completely cover the previous layer; leave it visible when you add each layer.
- It's best served right away, but you can cover and refrigerate for a day or two.
Shanna says
I've never had a 7 layer dip before thanks for introducing me! It was delicious 😋