Last Updated on December 12, 2024 by Kimberly Stroh

Put a twist on the classic party dip and try these Individual 7-Layer Dip Cups. Perfect for game days or casual parties, these are a portable version of everyone’s favorite Tex-Mex dip. This delicious, layered dip features a combination of bold flavors and creamy textures. Layers of beans, sour cream, cheese, salsa and guacamole create a visually appealing appetizer– then add your favorite toppings to finish. This is the party dip that’ll disappear.

What You’ll Need To Make These

Obviously, you’re going to need cups for this recipe. I used Crystal clear cups on Amazon and they’re the perfect size. The clear cups showcase the beautiful layers. I’ve also seen these made, by readers, in mason jars. Glass mason jars have the same visual effect. To add the layers, use an every day tablespoon. Occasionally, I’ll wipe the side of the cup with a paper towel that I keep nearby for nice clean layered lines.

If you have leftover plastic cups, try making my Mini Cherry Cheesecake Trifle! The recipe uses the same exact cups.

How To Prep Individual 7-Layer Dip Cups Ahead Of Time

If you want to prep these Individual 7-Layer Dip Cups for a party, it’s really easy to make them ahead of time. For me, the guacamole did not turn brown because of it being layered between the beans and sour cream. I keep the cups in the refrigerator and make them 24-hours ahead of time. Just pull them straight from the fridge and serve them with tortilla chips. 

How To Store Leftovers

The cups are best enjoyed fresh, but it’s possible to save leftovers. The cups will last for a couple of days in the refrigerator. Wrap plastic wrap over the top of each cup. Enjoy them within 1-2 days after making the cups. They do NOT freeze. Just toss any remaining leftovers instead of freezing.

Individual 7-Layer Dip Cup Ingredients:

• Refried Beans: Use canned beans that are room temperature
• Guacamole: Homemade guacamole or store-bought works fine
• Sour Cream: I use a full fat version, but that’s preference.
• Chunky Salsa: Pick your spice level.
• Shredded Cheese: Mexican shredded cheese or cheddar works best.
• Toppings of choice: sliced black olives, diced fresh tomato, diced green onion, diced pickled jalapeño peppers, etc.
• Corn tortilla chips for serving

Recipe Variations

For even more flavor, try mixing some taco seasoning into the beans or the sour cream. It adds a bit more spice as well. Sometimes I prep the cups with different toppings for people to pick from: half with olives, half with jalapeño, etc. I don’t place the toppings out for them to add, but I provide variety for them to pick from.

More Party Appetizers That Pair Well With The Cups

What’s a party without lots of snacks to pick from? If you’re looking for more party appetizer recipes, I’ve got you covered with some of my favorites. These are also casual and go with the layer cups:

• Green Chili Tortilla Pinwheels
• Pecan Candied Bacon
• Puff Pastry Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
• Chilled Baked Potato Dip

How To Make Individual 7-Layer Dip Cups

Set 8 clear 9-ounce punch cups out on a counter or cookie sheet. Spoon 2 tablespoons of refried beans into the bottom of each cup and smooth out with a spoon.

Next, add 2 tablespoons guacamole and spread out evenly.

Add 2 tablespoons of sour cream and gently spread over top of the guacamole.

Spoon 2 tablespoons of salsa over the sour cream layer.

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons shredded cheese on top of the sour cream. Top the 7 Layer Dip Cups with the toppings of your choice and serve with tortilla chips.