If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, smoky bacon, bold spices, and gooey cheddar cheese, it brings together all the best comfort food vibes with a delightful Southwestern twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and each one plays a vital role in creating the rich, robust taste and comforting texture that define this dish. From the tender spaghetti strands to the smoky bacon and bold spices, every component combines to make this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe unforgettable.
- Spaghetti (1 pound): The perfect pasta base that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the meat and adds a subtle richness.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides hearty flavor and protein for that true cowboy feel.
- Bacon, chopped (1/2 pound): Introduces irresistible smokiness and crunch.
- Large onion, chopped (1): Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Adds pungent, aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 15 ounces): Creates a fresh, tangy base for the sauce.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 ounces): Thickens the sauce and deepens its tomatoey goodness.
- Worcestershire sauce (1/4 cup): Adds umami and a subtle tangy kick.
- Chili powder (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and just the right amount of spice.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Enhances the earthy, smoky flavor profile.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a rich smokiness that’s signature to this recipe.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and brighten all the flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to crown the dish with creamy goodness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1/4 cup, optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside so it’s ready to absorb the rich sauce you’ll be making.
Step 2: Brown the beef and bacon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until both are nicely browned and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy.
Step 3: Sauté the onion and garlic
To the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds the savory base for your sauce with a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 4: Simmer the flavorful sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well and let it all simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, hearty sauce.
Step 5: Combine spaghetti and sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to your skillet, gently tossing it to ensure every strand is coated with that amazing sauce. Let it cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the pasta soaks up even more flavor.
Step 6: Melt the cheese topping
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet briefly to let the cheese melt into a gooey, irresistible layer that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
If you want an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve your Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe piping hot and watch it disappear from plates with delight.
How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a mild herbal note that complements the rich, smoky flavors perfectly. You could also experiment with a little chopped green onion or a dash of hot sauce for some zing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or classic garlic bread. The fresh veggies or crunchy bread help balance the richness of the spaghetti, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe in individual cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls. You can even sprinkle extra cheese and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden crust on top — perfect for impressing guests without any extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe to cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, where it’ll keep its flavors nicely and be ready to reheat for a quick meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to press out excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and maintain the dish’s comforting texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly for flavor and consider adding a little extra seasoning if needed.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want to skip bacon or need a vegetarian option, try smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor. You might also add sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying, meaty texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chili powder and smoked paprika give the dish a gentle warmth without overpowering heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and other ingredients do not contain gluten, making this a great option for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How long does it take to make the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe from start to finish?
The entire process takes about 40 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking. It’s a relatively quick recipe that delivers big flavor without keeping you in the kitchen all evening.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe — it’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, simple yet bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether for family dinners or casual gatherings. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting, hearty spaghetti dish.
Print
Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful dish combining spaghetti with ground beef, bacon, and a robust tomato-based sauce seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, this comforting skillet meal is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound spaghetti
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
- Brown Meat and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped bacon, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes to develop flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles with the sauce. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Melt Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to allow the cheese to melt, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for brightness and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- If cheddar cheese is unavailable, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good alternatives.
- The recipe can be doubled to feed a larger crowd.
- Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
