A seven-layer dip is an American appetizer based on ingredients typical of Tex-Mex cuisine. The first widely published recipe (1981, Family Circle magazine) called it Tex-Mex Dip without reference to any layers. The dish was popular in Texas for some time before the recipe first appeared in print.
Optional ingredients and variations include many items such as chopped onion, cooked ground beef, shredded lettuce (for texture), or sliced jalapeño chiles for additional spiciness.
The dish is often chilled when not served immediately. Originally served with corn chips, seven-layer dip is now served most often with tortilla chips.[1][2]