Greek yogurt isn't only rich and creamy, but it's also super high in protein, calcium, and probiotics. From sauces to dressings to baked goods, more and more recipes are calling for Greek yogurt. However, Greek yogurt can be expensive, and some brands are extremely tangy and strong in flavor, which makes it somewhat of a polarizing food. Whether you're out of this breakfast favorite or you simply don't like it, there are a few Greek yogurt substitutes that are cheap, less tangy, and more likely to be in your fridge. Here are the best substitutes for Greek yogurt that you may already have on hand.
1. Sour Cream
You can use sour cream in almost any recipe that calls for Greek yogurt, but it works especially well in dressings and sauces. You use exactly the same amount of sour cream as you would yogurt (1:1 ratio). Sour cream will add a more indulgent bite to any dish, but the texture of the dish will remain the same.
#SpoonTip: Try this buttery and sweet sour cream coffee cake.
2. Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese often gets a bad rap because of its tapioca-like consistency. Nevertheless, it's a nutritional powerhouse—high in protein, low in sugar, and full of calcium. You can use the same amount as you would Greek yogurt. Try it in pancakes, cheesecakes, salads, toast—the possibilities are endless.
#SpoonTip: Try blending your cottage cheese to get a smoother consistency similar to that of Greek yogurt.
3. Buttermilk
Buttermilk is the liquid left after butter has been churned. It may sound kinda gross, but it's actually rich in flavor. It will help cakes and breads rise and give them a bit of tang and tenderness. Always use a 1/4 less buttermilk than the amount of Greek yogurt that the recipe calls for.
#SpoonTip: Try making this irresistible buttermilk banana bread.
4. Cream Cheese
Yogurt toast is becoming more popular, but I honestly prefer cream cheese. Cream cheese and cucumber on toasty bread is the perfect way to start my morning (along with a big cup of coffee, of course). You can substitute the same amount of cream cheese for Greek yogurt in baked goods.
5. Avocado
If you're a vegan and/or avocado lover, try substituting Greek yogurt with the same amount of smashed up avocado. This substitution works well with sauces, dressings, and even in some baked goods. The flavor will be slightly different, but avocado is fairly neutral so it shouldn't affect the final dish too much. Avocado is nature's butter, after all.
#SpoonTip: Add lime or lemon juice to bring out the avocado flavor and add a bit of that tang you'd get from Greek yogurt.
6. Mayo
Mayo is a classic condiment that we should never forget about. I'm from the Chicago area, and we're famous for Portillo's chocolate cake. Why is it so popular? Probably because their "secret" ingredient is none other than good ol' mayo.
You can add the same amount of mayo as you would Greek yogurt to all your favorite recipes. It's just eggs and oil after all; for a vegan option, try Veganaise.
7. Plain Yogurt
Don't be ashamed to buy plain yogurt over Greek; it's often cheaper and isn't as strong in flavor. For any recipe that calls for Greek yogurt, you can substitute exactly the same amount of plain yogurt. It's slightly less creamy and tangy, but it's essentially Greek yogurt's cousin.
#SpoonTip: You can even turn plain yogurt into Greek yogurt with this easy trick.
You don't need to empty your wallet or clear out your fridge for a tub of Greek yogurt. You also don't need to deprive yourself of everything that's tangy and creamy in the world. Use Greek yogurt substitutes that you already have on hand, and have fun experimenting in the kitchen.