If we had to choose one dairy rock star to keep stocked in the fridge, we’d root for Greek yogurt. This high protein, probiotic-rich yogurt is not only healthy — it’s also a bit of a culinary chameleon.
Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream on tacos or baked potatoes, add richness to sauces, and slip comfortably into smoothies. No wonder it’s skyrocketed in popularity since its U.S. debut circa 2000.
But selecting the best Greek yogurt can be a little tricky. (You’re not alone if you’ve ever stood mesmerized — or paralyzed — by the sea of options in the yogurt section of the grocery store.)
That’s why we’ve done our homework and rounded up the 10 best Greek yogurt brands of 2021. In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Greek vs. regular yogurt
- health benefits of Greek yogurt
- types of Greek yogurt
- what to look for when shopping
- our criteria for the best Greek yogurts
- top 10 best of 2021
- creative ways to use Greek yogurt
But first, what exactly is Greek yogurt, again?
What is Greek yogurt?
This dairy treat actually begins its creamy life as regular yogurt. It’s then strained multiple times to achieve a thicker consistency — a process that brings about its signature health benefits.
Because it’s less liquid-y and more concentrated than traditional yogurt, Greek yogurt contains more protein. And because straining removes lactose, it’s lower in carbs and may even be more tolerable for those with a lactose sensitivity.
Besides these perks, Greek yogurt is packed with calcium for healthy bones and has probiotics that boost digestive health.
Types of Greek yogurt
There are just about as many varieties of Greek yogurt as there are ways to use it. Here’s a look at the factors that may help you decide which one is best for you.
Fat content
When browsing the yogurt aisle, you’ll likely notice you have your choice of fat percentages:
- nonfat
- low fat
- 2 percent
- full fat
Though nonfat and low fat yogurts have the advantage of packing fewer calories, they’re not necessarily the gold standard for health.
“There are many health benefits associated with eating Greek yogurt of any fat content — provided it’s plain or very low in sugar,” says dietitian Anne Danahy, author of The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Two. “Some research also suggests that the saturated fat in higher-fat yogurts does not contribute to heart disease and may in fact improve insulin sensitivity.”
Added probiotics
While all yogurt naturally contains various strains of good gut bugs, some brands go so far as to add higher doses of them. But is more actually better? Meh, not necessarily.
“It’s not really clear if yogurt with added probiotics provides additional benefits,” says Danahy.
Farming practices
Milk producers may use varying farming practices for Greek yogurt’s dairy base, leading to options like organic, non-GMO, and grass-fed. These “extras” definitely add cost, but if you’re looking for the highest-quality Greek yogurt (with bonuses for sustainability), they do make a difference.
Milk from grass-fed cows has been shown to have a healthier balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, and organic milk is proven to contain fewer pesticides and antibiotics.
Alt milk choices
These days, milk isn’t even a requirement to make yogurt! Greek-style varieties made with nondairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk are now available.
Just note that these are a stand-in for taste and texture, not nutrition. Without a dairy base, they won’t contain the same calcium and protein you’d get from cow’s-milk yogurt.
Added sugar
Finally, there’s the all-important question of sweetness and flavor. Greek yogurt comes in every taste profile from your basic cup of no-frills zero-sugar-added plain to double-chocolate caramel crunch.
While you may dig swirling Fruity Pebbles or crushed Oreos into your midday snack (no judgment), a variety with little to no sugar is your best bet for #HealthGoals. To keep the sugar reined in, look for a yogurt with 4 to 7 grams per serving — and always check labels for added sugars.
What to look for
With the head-spinning variety of Greek yogurts available, let’s break this thing down. Which yogurt works best for which purpose?
In general, for everyday eating, your taste, texture, and fat preferences can guide your decision. To lighten up heavier recipes, opt for a nonfat plain Greek yogurt. For middle-of-the-road creaminess and moderate calories, 2 percent will do the trick.
A full fat Greek yogurt, on the other hand, will provide optimum richness as a sour cream or mayo replacement — as well as extra calories for those who may need them, such as pregnant women or those looking to bulk up.
Meanwhile, a low carb, no-sugar-added plain variety is the top candidate for those with diabetes.
Tips before you buy
- Check labels. There’s one surefire way to settle the debate of which yogurt to toss in your cart: Check nutrition facts and ingredient labels. This handy info will tell you exactly what you’re getting in terms of fat, sugar, protein, and additives.
- Consider cost. Greek yogurts range in price from bargain to gourmet. Be prepared to do a little cost comparison.
- Branch out. Even if you have a favorite go-to Greek, you don’t have to stay in a yogurt rut! By experimenting with different brands, you may find that one product is your perfect pal for smoothies, while another adds just the right tang to your mac and cheese.
How we chose
There’s no one-size-fits-all top dog of Greek yogurts, but for our roundup, we considered a few key factors. Our top four criteria were:
- total protein content
- amount of added sugar
- ingredient list (the simpler, the better)
- flavor and texture (of course!)
We’ve also taken stock of the best brands for environmental considerations like organic and grass-fed production.
Here are our top 10 Greek yogurt brands for 2021.
Pricing guide:
- $ = Less than 20 cents per ounce
- $$ = 20 to 30 cents per ounce
- $$$ = More than 30 cents per ounce
The picks
Stonyfield Organic Plain Grass-Fed Greek Yogurt
If you don’t mind shelling out some extra cash, this option has it all. Certified organic farming practices using grass-fed cows make for an environmentally friendly yogurt you can feel good about purchasing. Plus, reviewers rave about its smoothness and mild flavor.
Nutrition in 3/4-cup serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 6 grams
- Protein: 16 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $$$
Buy Stonyfield organic plain grass-fed Greek yogurt online.
Fage Total 2% Low-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt
Fage’s 2 percent plain Greek yogurt gets our vote for best overall choice for everyday use. With just a hint of bite, it’s not too sour. And even though it’s low fat, it has a pleasantly thick texture.
Plus, all Fage’s yogurts come with a promise of no preservatives, no artificial flavors or sweeteners, and no GMOs. Need we say more?
Nutrition in 7-ounce serving:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 4 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $
Buy Fage Total 2% Low-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt online.
Chobani Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt
At only 80 calories per single-serve carton, Chobani’s nonfat plain variety is a lighter choice that still packs a hefty 14 grams of protein. Plus, it’s made without any additives or funky ingredients.
Bonus: This one’s kosher-certified, for those who need it.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 0 grams
- Protein: 14 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $
Buy Chobani Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt online.
Siggi’s 0% Plain Icelandic Skyr
OK, this one’s technically Icelandic, not Greek, but give us a pass! Icelandic skyr is made via a similar process to Greek yogurt, yielding comparable creamy, high protein results.
Traditional skyr like this one is fat-free yet somehow still manages to provide a luxurious texture you’ll love in smoothies or desserts.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 0 grams
- Protein: 16 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $$
Buy Siggi’s 0% Plain Icelandic Skyr online.
Siggi’s 0% Orange and Ginger Icelandic Skyr
When you’re craving something with a bit of flavor, you can’t go wrong with any of Siggi’s low sugar fruity varieties, including blueberry, peach, raspberry, and more.
Our personal favorite: a unique orange and ginger blend with just 5 grams of added sugar.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 0 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
- Sugar: 9 grams
- Added sugar: 5 grams
Cost: $$$
Buy Siggi’s 0% Orange and Ginger Icelandic Skyr online.
Trader Joe’s Greek-Style 2% Low-Fat Plain Yogurt
Trader Joe’s earns its cult following when it comes to its excellent all-purpose Greek yogurt. Stock up on this lower-fat choice for medium thickness, no added sugar, and protein galore.
Nutrition in 1-cup serving:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 3 grams
- Protein: 24 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $
Purchase at your nearest Trader Joe’s.
Kite Hill Almond Milk Plain Unsweetened Greek-Style Yogurt
Want to try something a little off the beaten path, yogurt-wise? Check out Kite Hill’s almond milk Greek-style option.
Just 2 grams of total sugar make it low carb, and its nondairy base means it’s A-OK for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities. Even without cow’s milk, this one packs 11 grams of protein per serving.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 10 grams
- Protein: 11 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $$$
Buy Kite Hill Almond Milk Plain Unsweetened Greek-Style Yogurt online.
Fage 5% Plain Greek Yogurt
For ultimate velvety indulgence, Fage’s 5 percent full fat yogurt fits the bill. Use this one in desserts or as a dollop on top of chili or Mexican dishes.
Nutrition in 7-ounce serving:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 10 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $
Buy Fage 5% Plain Greek Yogurt online.
Simple Truth Organic Strained Plain Nonfat Greek Yogurt
Kroger’s Simple Truth organic Greek may not be as thick as some other Greek yogurts, but hey, thick isn’t always what you need. For sauces and dips that need a thinner consistency (with zero fat or added sugar), give this one a try.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 0 grams
- Protein: 16 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Added sugar: 0 grams
Cost: $
Buy Simple Truth Organic Plain Nonfat Greek Yogurt online.
Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt
Low sugar yogurts can sometimes have a chalky consistency, but Chobani’s line of less-sweet fruity Greek options avoids this pitfall. The Gili cherry variety has the least sugar of the bunch, but other choices like Fino lemon and Monterey strawberry aren’t far behind.
Nutrition in 5.3-ounce serving:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 2.5 grams
- Protein: 12 grams
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Added sugar: 5 grams
Cost: $$$
Buy Chobani Less Sugar Greek Yogurt online.
Creative Greek yogurt uses
Adding Greek yogurt and all its health benefits to your diet can mean a whole lot more than an on-the-go breakfast or smoothie.
You can use it as a base for dips, a lighter coating for chicken Parm, a creamy foundation for chocolate pudding, and more. There’s a wide world (beyond the Mediterranean) of options for cooking and baking with this versatile dairy ingredient.
Check out this list for tons of creative recipes and ideas for how to eat your way through a tub of your favorite Greek yogurt.
tl;dr
Greek yogurt is a high protein, probiotic-rich yogurt that’s thicker and more concentrated than traditional yogurt.
It has more protein than traditional yogurt, and because straining removes lactose, it’s lower in carbs and may be more tolerable for folks with a lactose sensitivity. Greek yogurt is also loaded with calcium for healthy bones and probiotics that boost digestive health.
It’s available in nonfat, low fat, 2 percent, and whole or full fat versions. You can also find nondairy options made with alternative milks.
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