This ground turkey pasta with mushrooms is a delicious, protein-packed meal, thanks to its powerhouse ingredients.

Its a genius substitute for a traditional heavy cream sauce.

Keep reading for our expert tips on recommended cooking techniques, ingredient choices and more!

an image of the High-Protein Penne with Ground Turkey & Mushrooms

Photo:Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Roast until the tomatoes burst and are juicy and lightly caramelized, 18 to 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, bring a medium saucepan of water to a boil.

Add 8 ounces penne; cook according to package directions.

an image of the ingredients to make the High-Protein Penne with Ground Turkey & Mushrooms

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Drain, reserving 12 cup cooking water.

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

Transfer to a bowl; do not wipe the skillet clean.

an image of the tomatoes and garlic roasting

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Remove from heat and stir in the browned turkey.

Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Divide the pasta among 4 bowls and dollop with the remaining cottage cheese mixture.

an image of the mushrooms cooking in a skillet

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Garnish with oregano, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 2 cups pasta mixture & 2 Tbsp.

Ensure the leftovers are cooled down before placing them in an airtight container and refrigerating.

an image of the cottage cheese mixture being added to the skillet

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

When ready to reheat, they can be warmed in a skillet over medium heat.

You should add a little water, too.

This dish rounds out well withsheet-pan vegetable recipes.

Its also excellent withBalsamic Oven-Roasted Carrotsor one of ourfavorite salads.