June 20, 2026 · 35 min

Italian Chicken Sausage Spaghetti with Zucchini and Parmesan

Lunch35 min751 cal / serving

There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of pasta to satisfy a craving. This recipe takes classic spaghetti bolognese to the next level with savory Italian chicken sausage, tender broiled zucchini and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. It’s quick, comforting and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.

Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. The combination of perfectly al dente spaghetti, flavorful sausage and melted Parmesan will have everyone coming back for seconds.


Recipe details

Lunch35 min751 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories751 kcalProtein45.7 gFat47.2 gCarbs35.7 gSugar16 gFiber5.7 gSodium1607 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Zucchini1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Spaghetti6 ounce SpaghettiView ingredient guide
Crushed Tomatoes13.76 ounce Crushed TomatoesView ingredient guide
Sour Cream2 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Parmesan Cheese0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guide
Olive Oil1 tablespoon Olive OilView ingredient guide
Sugar1 teaspoon SugarView ingredient guide
Butter1 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust rack to top position and heat broiler to high or oven to 500°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Wash and dry produce. Trim and halve zucchini lengthwise; thinly slice crosswise into half-moons.
  2. Toss zucchini on a baking sheet with a large drizzle of olive oil and season with salt, pepper and half the Italian Seasoning (you’ll use the rest later). Broil or bake on top rack until browned and softened, 5-7 minutes. (TIP: Watch carefully to avoid burning.) Remove from oven.
  3. Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken sausage and remaining Italian Seasoning. Cook, breaking up meat into pieces, until cooked through and browned, 4-6 minutes.
  4. Once water is boiling, add spaghetti to pot. Cook until al dente, 9-11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
  5. Stir crushed tomatoes, stock concentrate and 1 tsp sugar (2 tsp for 4 servings) into pan with sausage. Season generously with salt (we used ½ tsp; ¾ tsp for 4) and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced, 5-7 minutes.
  6. Stir sour cream and 1 TBSP butter (2 TBSP for 4 servings) into pan with sauce. Add spaghetti and zucchini; toss to coat. (If your pan isn’t large enough, pour everything back into large pot.) If needed, stir in reserved pasta cooking water 1 TBSP at a time until pasta is thoroughly coated in sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Divide between bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve.

Recipe Tips

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer before adding the sour cream.

Feel free to substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly, you can substitute with linguine, fettuccine or even penne. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan or omit it. The sauce will still be delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

DandyRecipes community

Rate and discuss this recipe

Your rating and comments help other DandyRecipes readers decide what to cook next.

Your recipe vote

No DandyRecipes user votes yet.

Recipe comments

0 DandyRecipes comments

No DandyRecipes comments yet.

More recipe ideas

12 similar recipes you might like

These suggestions are based on shared ingredients, meal type, and recipe metadata.