Mexican 9-Layer Dip

• lean ground beef↗1 lb
• garlic cloves, minced↗3
• taco seasoning mix1 envelope

  (1 1/4 ounce)

• salt↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• black pepper↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• onion powder↗1 teaspoon
• avocados, peeled, seeded and mashed↗3
• fresh lemon juice↗1 tablespoon
• mayonnaise↗1⁄4 cup
• shredded monterey jack cheese1 cup
• chopped green onion1 cup
• chopped fresh cilantro1⁄2 cup

  (parsley ok)

• medium tomatoes, chopped↗4
• sliced black olives1 cup
• shredded cheddar cheese↗1 cup
• tortilla chips

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Note: You can easily change the amounts given in the layers to suit your taste or omit a layer if you don't care for it, or add a layer, such as beans, if you prefer.

2. 2

   Brown meat in skillet with garlic; drain away any fat; add 1/2 envelope taco seasoning and 2 tbsp water and mix together, set aside and allow to cool.

3. 3

   Spread the beef in the bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish.

4. 4

   Mix the avocado with the lemon juice and spread over the beef.

5. 5

   Mix the mayo with the remaining taco seasoning and spread over the guacamole.

6. 6

   Layer the Monterrey Jack, then the green onions, the cilantro, the tomatoes, the black olives, then finally with the cheddar cheese.

7. 7

   Serve dip with tortilla chips.