If you’re searching for a bold, comforting pasta dish that packs flavor and a bit of southwestern flair, look no further than this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe. A true crowd-pleaser, it combines tender spaghetti, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, all kissed with smoky spices. Each bite is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a meal that feels like a warm hug from the prairie. Gather your appetite and let’s wrangle up some deliciousness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe shines thanks to a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each one has a job to do, whether it’s bringing out the meaty richness, adding a pop of color, or layering in a bit of heat. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Spaghetti (12 oz): The classic pasta base that soaks up all the saucy goodness and gives the dish its comforting bite.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the beef and onions, adding a subtle richness to the skillet.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Brings hearty protein and a satisfying, savory flavor foundation.
- Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Adds irresistible smokiness and a crunchy texture that makes each forkful pop.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Infuses sweetness and depth, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Elevates the overall aroma and adds a gentle kick of flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (1 15-oz can, undrained): Brings juicy brightness and a rustic chunkiness to the sauce.
- Tomato sauce (1 8-oz can): Helps create a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every noodle.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives the dish a punch of umami and a subtle tang.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and southwestern note without overpowering the dish.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Layers in a hint of smokiness that ties the whole cowboy theme together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts into gooey, golden perfection for that crave-worthy cheesy finish.
- Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch that brightens every plate.
How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. This gives you a sturdy, yet tender base to catch all those robust cowboy flavors later on.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
In a big skillet over medium heat, toss in your chopped bacon and cook until it’s beautifully crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, but don’t pour out that flavorful bacon fat! It’ll be the secret ingredient that makes the next steps extra tasty.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onions
Add the olive oil to the skillet if it looks a bit dry, then crumble in the ground beef and diced onion. Cook everything for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally and breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy ranch cookhouse.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where that signature Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe flavor really starts to come alive, building layers of warmth and smokiness.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 5 to 7 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld into a rich, slightly tangy sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Combine It All
Add the drained spaghetti and reserved crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the savory sauce and flecked with bits of bacon. You’re almost there!
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Let it sit for a minute or two, just until the cheese melts into gooey, golden ribbons. The result is pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of color and a little fresh crunch, scatter sliced green onions over each plate before serving. If you like things a bit spicy, a few jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes work wonders too.
Side Dishes
This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is a hearty main event, but it pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or some garlicky Texas toast. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try it alongside roasted vegetables or a scoop of creamy coleslaw for classic comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the spaghetti family-style in a big, rustic bowl for a casual gathering, or twirl it into individual nests for a more elegant touch. For fun, try topping each plate with a fried egg or a dollop of sour cream for a playful, cowboy-inspired twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store any extras in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day!
Freezing
If you want to freeze a batch, let the spaghetti cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish or zip-top bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without the cheese and add it after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave portions with a splash of water or gently warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add extra cheese just before serving to recapture that gooey, melty magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While traditional spaghetti works great for this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or even whole wheat noodles if you prefer a different texture or want to use what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this spicier?
If you love a little extra heat, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sauce. The Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is super flexible and easy to customize to your spice preference.
Can I make this dish ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into containers, store in the fridge, and enjoy hearty, homemade pasta all week long.
What’s the best way to keep the bacon crispy?
For the crispiest bacon, add it back to the skillet just before serving, rather than mixing it in early. You can also reserve a little bacon to sprinkle over the top as a final garnish for extra crunch.
Is Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, most kids love the cheesy, beefy flavors of this dish! If your little ones are sensitive to spice, just reduce or omit the chili powder and smoked paprika for a milder version.
Final Thoughts
This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is a true family favorite that brings comfort, flavor, and a little bit of wild west fun to your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just craving something cozy, give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Print
Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful American pasta dish combining ground beef, crispy bacon, and a rich tomato sauce with smoky and spicy accents, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe brings together robust flavors in a quick and satisfying skillet meal.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Meat & Produce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese & Garnish
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the flavorful bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté Ground Beef and Onions: Add olive oil if needed to the skillet, then add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through and the onions are tender.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thicken.
- Combine Pasta and Bacon: Add the cooked spaghetti and reserved crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and incorporate the bacon.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta in the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired for added brightness and color.
Notes
- For a spicier twist, substitute pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
- Adjust chili powder to your preferred spice level.
- To reduce fat, use lean ground beef and drain excess grease after cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
