Recipe Review | 9-Layer Dip

A necessity for your next fiesta or a great appetizer for any outdoor gathering this summer... You can make these individually (as shown) or you can layer the ingredients in a baking dish or shallow bowl--whatever is handy (your guests will be more impressed if the containers are clear). This dish can be made up to 24 hours in advance--but don't add the shredded cheese and other "garnishes" until serving day.

9-Layer Dip

(makes 8 generous individual servings OR about one 9x9 sized "community" dish)

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What you need:

1 pound ground beef

1 package McCormick's Beef Taco Seasoning

1 (16 oz) can refried beans (I like Trader Joe's Salsa Style Refried Beans best!)

2 cups guacamole*

2 cups sour cream

1-2 cups salsa (just use your favorite--but be sure it's not too thin or watery)

2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mexican blend, colby)

1/2 cup diced tomatoes

1 (3-4 oz) can sliced black olives

4-6 green onions, diced

Large bag of "sturdy" tortilla chips.

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*The best guacamole is homemade. Smash all this together in a bowl:

3 avocados

juice from 1 large lemon

about 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro

2-3 green onions, diced

1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

(additional kosher salt may be needed after tasting)

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What to do:

Brown the ground beef with the seasoning packet according to the directions on the package; set aside. (Make your guacamole?) 

Layer your ingredients into your serving container(s)**: refried beans, ground beef, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, tomatoes, black olives, green onions.

**If you're making individual servings, plan to use about 2 ounces each of refried beans, ground beef, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.