Greek Yogurt Recipes: 20 Swaps That Make Comfort Food Creamier and Higher in Protein

Greek yogurt recipes are having a moment, and for good reason. That tub of plain Greek yogurt in your fridge can stand in for sour cream, mayo, butter and even heavy cream, and it adds protein every time. A video showing what happens when you mix yogurt with flour has more than 6.7 million views, and searches for high protein pumpkin cheesecake have jumped this month. Below are the swaps that make classic comfort food creamier, from 2-ingredient bagels to mashed potatoes, dips and holiday desserts. These Greek yogurt recipes do not taste like health food, and every slide has an easy recipe. Grab a big tub..

Greek Yogurt Recipes Start With a Thick, Creamy Tub

That tub of plain Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream, mayo, butter and even heavy cream. Thick yogurt may help you feel full because of its protein, and the USDA MyPlate guide counts it as part of the dairy group. Store-bought is fine, but you can also make your own thick Greek-style yogurt from regular plain yogurt for less money. If you have a health condition, talk to your doctor or a dietitian before big diet changes. Here is how to strain it..

You will need: 1 large tub (32 oz) plain whole milk or low-fat yogurt, a fine strainer, a coffee filter or cheesecloth, a bowl.

How to make it: 1. Line the strainer with a coffee filter or cheesecloth and set it over a bowl. 2. Spoon in the yogurt. 3. Cover and refrigerate 4 to 8 hours. 4. Discard the liquid whey or use it in smoothies. 5. Scrape the thick yogurt into a jar and keep up to 1 week.

2-Ingredient Flatbread, the Most Viral of All Greek Yogurt Recipes

This is the trick behind a video with more than 6.7 million views: mix Greek yogurt with self-rising flour and you get a soft dough in two minutes, no yeast, no rising. Roll it thin and cook it in a dry skillet until puffy and golden. Brush with garlic butter and serve with soup, curry or dips. Would you believe it is just two ingredients?

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour plus 2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt), 1 tbsp butter, 1 clove garlic.

How to make it: 1. Stir yogurt and flour together, then knead 1 minute until smooth. 2. Divide into 4 balls and roll each thin. 3. Cook in a hot dry skillet 2 minutes per side until puffy with brown spots. 4. Melt butter with garlic. 5. Brush on the warm flatbreads.

2-Ingredient Everything Bagels

The same yogurt dough becomes chewy, golden bagels in about 25 minutes. Shape it into rings, brush with egg and cover with everything seasoning. They are softer than bakery bagels but have more protein than most breads. Perfect for a quick weekend breakfast with cream cheese, and proof that Greek yogurt recipes can be fun. Plain, sesame or everything: which would you pick?

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour, 1 egg beaten, 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning.

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 375 F and line a baking sheet. 2. Mix yogurt and flour into a dough and knead 1 minute. 3. Divide into 4 pieces, roll into ropes and pinch into rings. 4. Brush with egg and sprinkle with seasoning. 5. Bake 22 to 25 minutes until golden.

Greek Yogurt Loaf Cake

A video for an easy yogurt cake has nearly 5 million views, and it is easy to see why. Yogurt keeps the crumb moist and tender with less butter. This loaf is lightly sweet, so it works for breakfast with coffee or dessert with berries. Add blueberries, lemon zest or even a tea bag of Earl Grey to the batter.

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 3 eggs, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/3 cup oil, 1 tsp vanilla, zest of 1 lemon, 1 3/4 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 cup blueberries (optional).

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 350 F and grease a loaf pan. 2. Whisk yogurt, eggs, sugar, oil, vanilla and zest. 3. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. 4. Fold in blueberries and pour into the pan. 5. Bake 50 to 55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars, Holiday Greek Yogurt Recipes

Searches for high protein pumpkin cheesecake have jumped 250% this month, and these bars are the answer. Swapping half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt makes them lighter and tangier but still rich and creamy. A graham cracker crust and warm pumpkin spice make them perfect for Thanksgiving. Will these sit next to the pie this year?

You will need: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 4 tbsp melted butter, 8 oz cream cheese softened, 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice.

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 325 F and line an 8×8 pan. 2. Press crumbs mixed with butter into the pan and bake 8 minutes. 3. Beat cream cheese, yogurt, pumpkin, sugar, eggs, vanilla and spice until smooth. 4. Pour over the crust and bake 40 to 45 minutes until just set. 5. Chill 4 hours and cut into bars.

Creamy Greek Yogurt Mashed Potatoes

Swap some of the butter and all of the sour cream for Greek yogurt and your mashed potatoes stay creamy and tangy, with extra protein. Warm the yogurt a little first so it does not cool the potatoes. A Thanksgiving side nobody will guess is lighter, and one of the smartest Greek yogurt recipes for the holidays. Add chives or roasted garlic for even more flavor.

You will need: 3 lb Yukon gold potatoes peeled and cubed, 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt at room temperature, 1/2 cup warm milk, 3 tbsp butter, salt and pepper, chives.

How to make it: 1. Boil potatoes in salted water 15 to 20 minutes until tender. 2. Drain and let them steam dry 2 minutes. 3. Mash with butter and warm milk. 4. Stir in the yogurt, salt and pepper. 5. Top with chives and serve.

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad, No Mayo Needed

Plain Greek yogurt makes a creamy chicken salad dressing with a fresh, tangy taste and far more protein than mayo. Toss it with leftover roast chicken or turkey, celery, grapes and a squeeze of lemon. Pile it on lettuce, croissants or crackers. It is one of the most useful Greek yogurt recipes for using up holiday leftovers.

You will need: 3 cups cooked chicken or turkey chopped, 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 celery stalks diced, 1 cup grapes halved, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, salt and pepper.

How to make it: 1. Whisk yogurt, mustard, lemon, salt and pepper. 2. Add chicken, celery, grapes and pecans. 3. Stir to coat. 4. Chill 30 minutes. 5. Serve on lettuce, bread or crackers.

Yogurt-Marinated Chicken Thighs

Yogurt is one of the best marinades there is: it makes chicken juicy and tender, like the famous tandoori chicken of India. Mix it with garlic, lemon and warm spices, let the chicken soak a few hours, then roast or grill. Serve with rice, flatbread and a cucumber salad for a complete dinner. Greek yogurt recipes like this one are proof that the tub belongs in savory food, too.

You will need: 2 lb chicken thighs, 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp salt.

How to make it: 1. Mix yogurt, lemon, garlic, ginger, spices and salt. 2. Coat the chicken and refrigerate 2 hours or overnight. 3. Heat oven to 425 F. 4. Roast on a lined pan 30 to 35 minutes until 175 F. 5. Broil 2 minutes for a charred finish.

Creamy Tomato Pasta, Weeknight Greek Yogurt Recipes

Want a rosy, creamy tomato pasta without heavy cream? Stir Greek yogurt into the sauce off the heat, with a splash of pasta water so it stays silky. It tastes indulgent but is lighter, with a protein boost. Dinner is ready in 20 minutes. Do you like it spicy with chili flakes or mild?

You will need: 12 oz penne, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional), 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt at room temperature, 1/2 cup Parmesan, basil.

How to make it: 1. Cook the pasta and save 1 cup water. 2. Saute garlic in oil 1 minute. 3. Add tomatoes and chili and simmer 10 minutes. 4. Turn off the heat and stir in yogurt and Parmesan with a little pasta water. 5. Toss with pasta and basil.

Tzatziki, One of the Oldest Greek Yogurt Recipes

Tzatziki is the classic Greek dip of yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic and dill, and it is one of the simplest Greek yogurt recipes of all. Squeeze the cucumber well so the dip stays thick. Serve it with pita, crunchy vegetables, meatballs or roasted lamb. It is a cool, fresh contrast on a heavy holiday table.

You will need: 2 cups plain Greek yogurt, 1 English cucumber grated and squeezed dry, 2 cloves garlic grated, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp chopped dill, salt.

How to make it: 1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out all the water in a towel. 2. Mix with yogurt, garlic, oil and lemon. 3. Stir in dill and salt. 4. Chill at least 30 minutes. 5. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Lighter Spinach Artichoke Dip

The restaurant favorite gets a makeover: Greek yogurt replaces most of the sour cream and mayo, and nobody can tell once it is hot and bubbly. Bake it in a small dish and serve with tortilla chips, pita or bread for your next game day or holiday party. Hot from the oven or cold from the fridge, which do you prefer?

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 4 oz cream cheese softened, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1 box (10 oz) frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry, 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts chopped, 2 cloves garlic.

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 375 F. 2. Mix yogurt, cream cheese, half the mozzarella and the Parmesan. 3. Stir in spinach, artichokes and garlic. 4. Spread in a small baking dish and top with the rest of the mozzarella. 5. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly.

Taco Night Yogurt “Sour Cream”

Plain Greek yogurt looks and tastes almost exactly like sour cream, so it is the easiest swap on taco night. Add a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt and kids will never notice. Make a quick lime crema in a squeeze bottle for drizzling. Which taco filling is a must at your house?

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, juice of 1 lime, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tbsp chopped cilantro, a pinch of cumin, tacos with your favorite filling.

How to make it: 1. Whisk yogurt, lime juice, salt and cumin. 2. Thin with a splash of water for drizzling. 3. Stir in cilantro. 4. Spoon into a squeeze bottle or small bowl. 5. Drizzle over tacos, nachos or chili.

Fluffy Pancakes, the Easiest Greek Yogurt Recipes for Breakfast

Greek yogurt gives pancakes the same tang and tenderness as buttermilk, plus more protein. The thick batter makes them tall and fluffy. Make a double batch and freeze the extras for school mornings. Top with fruit and maple syrup for a weekend stack everyone will love.

You will need: 1 cup flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp vanilla.

How to make it: 1. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, soda and salt. 2. Whisk yogurt, eggs, milk, butter and vanilla. 3. Combine just until mixed, lumps are fine. 4. Cook 1/4 cup at a time on a buttered griddle until bubbles form, then flip. 5. Serve with fruit and syrup.

Frozen Yogurt Berry Bark

Spread Greek yogurt on a sheet pan, scatter berries on top and freeze. Break it into pieces and you have a cold, creamy snack that kids think is ice cream. Add a drizzle of honey and a few chocolate chips for a treat. It is one of the most fun Greek yogurt recipes to make with kids.

You will need: 2 cups plain or vanilla Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp honey, 1 cup mixed berries, 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips, 2 tbsp granola (optional).

How to make it: 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment. 2. Mix yogurt and honey and spread 1/4 inch thick. 3. Scatter berries, chocolate chips and granola on top. 4. Freeze 3 hours until firm. 5. Break into pieces and keep in the freezer.

Homemade Yogurt Ranch for Veggie Platters

Kids will eat almost any vegetable with ranch, and this version is made with Greek yogurt and dried herbs in 5 minutes. It is thick enough for dipping and thin enough to drizzle with a splash of milk. Set it out with carrot sticks, cucumbers and peppers before dinner. Which veggie goes first at your house?

You will need: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp milk, 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, pepper, fresh vegetables.

How to make it: 1. Whisk yogurt and milk. 2. Stir in herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. 3. Chill 30 minutes so the flavors blend. 4. Cut vegetables into sticks. 5. Serve the dip in the center of a platter.

Greek Yogurt Banana Muffins

Brown bananas plus Greek yogurt make moist, tender muffins with less oil. They are perfect for lunch boxes and grab-and-go breakfasts. Add walnuts, chocolate chips or a cinnamon sugar top. Bake a dozen on Sunday and freeze half for later. Greek yogurt recipes for baking are a great place to start. Chocolate chips or no chocolate chips?

You will need: 3 ripe bananas mashed, 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup oil, 1 tsp vanilla, 2 cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt.

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 375 F and line a muffin tin. 2. Mix bananas, yogurt, eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla. 3. Stir in flour, soda, cinnamon and salt. 4. Fill cups 3/4 full. 5. Bake 18 to 20 minutes.

Honey Yogurt Fruit Dip for Holiday Boards

A bowl of honey yogurt dip in the middle of a fruit platter turns it into the first thing to disappear. Just stir honey, vanilla and a pinch of cinnamon into Greek yogurt. It is lovely with apples, strawberries, grapes and pear slices, and it is one of the quickest Greek yogurt recipes on this list. Put it out at brunch, a cookie exchange or a kids party.

You will need: 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp honey, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, zest of 1/2 orange, fruit for dipping.

How to make it: 1. Whisk yogurt, honey, vanilla, cinnamon and zest. 2. Taste and add more honey if you like. 3. Chill 20 minutes. 4. Spoon into a bowl in the middle of a platter. 5. Surround with sliced fruit.

Greek Yogurt Deviled Eggs

Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt and deviled eggs taste brighter and lighter, with extra protein. Nobody at the holiday table will guess, which is the magic of Greek yogurt recipes. A little Dijon and a dusting of paprika keep the classic flavor. Make them a day ahead and fill just before serving. How many does your family go through?

You will need: 12 eggs, 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp white vinegar, salt and pepper, paprika, parsley.

How to make it: 1. Hard-boil the eggs 10 minutes and cool in ice water. 2. Peel and halve, and pop out the yolks. 3. Mash yolks with yogurt, mayo, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper. 4. Pipe or spoon back into the whites. 5. Dust with paprika and parsley.

Creamy Yogurt Coleslaw

This coleslaw uses Greek yogurt and a splash of apple cider vinegar instead of a heavy mayo dressing, so it stays crunchy and bright. It is perfect next to pulled pork, fried chicken or on top of a burger. Make it an hour ahead so the cabbage softens a little. For more ideas with the same tub, see our high protein desserts that taste like a cheat day.

You will need: 1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix, 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp celery seed, salt and pepper.

How to make it: 1. Whisk yogurt, mayo, vinegar, honey, celery seed, salt and pepper. 2. Pour over the coleslaw mix. 3. Toss well. 4. Chill 1 hour. 5. Toss again before serving.

Tender Greek Yogurt Biscuits

Greek yogurt does the job of buttermilk in these soft, flaky Southern-style biscuits. Keep the butter cold and do not overwork the dough for tall layers. Serve them warm with honey or sorghum, or split them for breakfast sandwiches. Of all the Greek yogurt recipes here, this one might win over grandma. Butter and honey or sausage gravy?

You will need: 2 cups flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp salt, 6 tbsp cold butter cubed, 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup milk.

How to make it: 1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. Whisk flour, baking powder, soda and salt. 3. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly. 4. Stir in yogurt and milk just until a shaggy dough forms, pat 1 inch thick and cut rounds. 5. Bake 12 to 14 minutes until golden.