High-Protein Pasta with Creamy Vodka Sauce

Love pasta but feel like it’s holding you back from your health goals? This high-protein, lower-carb pasta dish does NOT compromise on flavor! This Protein Pasta with Homemade Vodka Sauce & Ground Pork is packed with protein, creamy richness, and a little heat for the perfect bite. Using Kaizen low-carb protein pasta, a creamy tomato vodka sauce, and seasoned ground pork, this dish will leave you satisfied while keeping your macros in check.

Ingredients

For the Protein Pasta:

• 1 pack of Kaizen lower-carb protein pasta - but you can use other noodle brands too, zucchini noodles, etc.

• Salt to taste

For the Homemade Vodka Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion or shallot, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ⅔ cup tomato paste

• 1/4 cup vodka (optional – can skip and still get great flavor!)

• 3/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• Freshly grated parmesan (optional for topping)

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

For the Ground Pork:

• 1 pound ground pork (or protein of choice)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Pork:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add ground pork and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pork is browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).

4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add Kaizen protein pasta and cook according to package instructions.

3. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce if needed.

3. Make the Vodka Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).

3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it darkens in color.

5. If using, pour in vodka and cook for 1 minute to let the alcohol burn off.

6. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream and butter. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Combine Everything:

1. Add the cooked pasta and ground pork to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

2. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

1. Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated parmesan.

2. Garnish with chopped basil.

3. Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed, lower-carb meal!

Per Serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: ~600 kcal

• Protein: ~50g

• Carbs: ~25g

• Fat: ~35g

Nutrition Benefits

• High-Protein: Thanks to Kaizen protein pasta and ground pork.

• Lower-Carb: Ideal for those watching carb intake without sacrificing pasta cravings.

• Rich & Satisfying: The creamy vodka sauce balances perfectly with the seasoned pork.

Let me know if you give this a try! Tag @kevthedietitian on Instagram to share your creation!