Pasta alla Zozzona – Hearty, Rustic, and Bursting with Flavor

Pasta alla Zozzona is a rustic Roman-inspired dish that brings together the creamy richness of carbonara, the tang of tomato, and the savoriness of sausage in one hearty, satisfying meal. This lighter take on a decadent classic keeps all the bold flavors you love while being mindful of balance. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a bowl of comfort that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, Savory Flavor – Juicy sausage, tangy tomato, and creamy egg come together beautifully.
Rich but Balanced – Lighter and bacon-free without sacrificing depth.
Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry and fridge staples.
Quick & Easy – On the table in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti (or regular)
• 6 oz lean Italian chicken or turkey sausage, removed from casing
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

2. Cook the Sausage
While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Add the Tomato Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and Parmesan cheese.

5. Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato-sausage sauce and toss to coat. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the egg-Parmesan mixture, tossing until creamy and well combined. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture.

6. Serve
Divide into bowls, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 19g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 6g

Tips for Success

Off the Heat for Eggs – Always stir in the egg mixture off the heat to avoid scrambling.
Brighten It Up – Garnish generously with fresh herbs for extra freshness.
Whole Wheat Option – Adds fiber and a nutty flavor to the pasta.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe lets you enjoy all the richness and bold flavors of traditional Zozzona without bacon. Lean sausage and tomato deliver plenty of savoriness, while the creamy egg and Parmesan sauce ties it all together for a lighter, yet deeply satisfying bowl of pasta.

Pasta alla Zozzona proves that you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful pasta dinner without heavy ingredients. With its creamy, savory, and tangy notes, this bacon-free version is a simple yet memorable dish for any night of the week.