High-Protein Vodka Pasta with Italian Turkey Sausage (36g Protein)

Published: 8/31/2026

Hearty and savory, this dish uses lean Italian turkey sausage to provide a spicy depth. Protein-fortified pasta and lean turkey keep the dish light while delivering a substantial macro profile.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 1 lb (450 g) lean Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
• 10 oz (280 g) protein penne
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) vodka
• 1.5 cups (360 ml) marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup (120 g) low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil

Instructions

1. Brown the turkey sausage and onion in the olive oil, breaking the meat into small, uniform crumbles.
2. Pour in the vodka and let it reduce by half over medium-high heat.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the blended cottage cheese to achieve a rich, creamy consistency.
5. Mix with the cooked penne and serve hot.

Pro Tips

• Sausage Browning: Let the turkey sausage sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a deep brown crust before breaking it up; this adds savory complexity.
• Acid Balance: If the vodka sauce tastes too sharp, add a teaspoon of honey or stevia to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

See Also

• Italian Sausage and Peppers
• Spicy Feta & Chicken Sausage Pasta

Categories: mains, pasta-risotto, comfort-food