Substitute for Greek Yogurt
Thick, strained yogurt used in cooking, baking, dips, and as a healthier swap for sour cream and mayo.
The Best Substitute
The Professor's top pick for replacing greek yogurt is Sour Cream at a ratio of 1 cup sour cream = 1 cup Greek yogurt. This works well for dips, baking, toppings, sauces. There are 2 total substitutes listed below, each suited for different situations. Scroll down for complete details on every option, including what to use each one for and what to avoid.
Best Substitutes
Sour Cream
Flavor impact: Less tangy and higher in fat. A seamless swap in virtually every recipe.
Cottage Cheese (blended smooth)
Flavor impact: Milder flavor, similar protein content. Blend until completely smooth.
Sour cream and Greek yogurt are nearly interchangeable. Greek yogurt is tangier and higher in protein. Sour cream is milder and higher in fat. In most recipes, nobody will know the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but Greek is thicker. If using regular yogurt, strain it through cheesecloth for 2 hours to remove excess liquid, or use 3/4 cup regular yogurt per 1 cup Greek.
The Bottom Line
If you are out of greek yogurt, the best all-around substitute is sour cream. Pay attention to the ratio, since substitutes rarely work at exactly 1:1. Consider what role greek yogurt plays in your recipe; whether it provides flavor, texture, acidity, or structure; and choose the substitute that best fills that specific role. When in doubt, start with less and adjust to taste.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology