This version keeps the classic flavors while significantly increasing the protein by swapping in Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and extra lean meat.
Servings: 8
Protein: ~24–28 g per serving
Ingredients
Layer 1 – Bean Layer
1 (16 oz) can refried beans (fat-free or vegetarian)
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
2 tablespoons water (if needed)
Layer 2 – High-Protein Cream Layer
1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth
2 ounces light cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon taco seasoning
1 tablespoon lime juice
Layer 3 – Salsa
1 cup chunky salsa, drained if very watery
Layer 4 – Protein Layer
12 oz (340 g) extra-lean ground turkey (93–99% lean), cooked
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
2 tablespoons water
Layer 5 – Cheese
1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
Layer 6 – Vegetables
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
¼ cup sliced green onions
Layer 7 – Toppings
¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
¼ cup chopped cilantro
1 diced jalapeño (optional)
1 diced avocado (optional; adds healthy fats)
Instructions
Mix the refried beans with the taco seasoning and spread evenly in the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish or 8×8-inch serving dish.
Blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Stir together with the Greek yogurt, cream cheese, taco seasoning, and lime juice. Spread over the bean layer.
Spoon the salsa evenly over the cream layer.
Brown the ground turkey, stir in the taco seasoning and water, and cook until the liquid is absorbed. Let cool slightly before spreading over the salsa.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the turkey.
Top with the lettuce, tomato, and green onions.
Finish with olives, cilantro, jalapeño, and avocado if using.
Chill for 30–60 minutes before serving.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving, without chips)
Calories: ~290
Protein: ~26 g
Carbohydrates: ~14 g
Fat: ~13 g
Fiber: ~4 g
High-Protein Dippers
Instead of regular tortilla chips, try:
Baked high-protein tortilla chips
Whole-grain pita chips
Bell pepper strips
Cucumber rounds
Celery sticks
Carrot sticks