Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a truly satisfying and flavor-packed meal: Cowboy Spaghetti! This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a hearty, robust, and incredibly delicious take on classic spaghetti that’s guaranteed to fill every belly and delight every palate. Combining savory bacon and seasoned ground beef with tender spaghetti, all coated in a richly flavored tomato sauce, this recipe brings a touch of the Wild West to your dinner table. It’s designed to be simple, using ingredients you likely have on hand, yet delivers a complex depth of flavor that makes it a family favorite.
Delicious Cowboy Spaghetti: A Hearty Twist on Classic Pasta
In the realm of comfort food, spaghetti holds a special place. But what if you could elevate that beloved classic into something even more substantial and exciting? Enter Cowboy Spaghetti – a dish born from the spirit of resourcefulness and a desire for truly satisfying fare. This recipe transforms ordinary spaghetti into an extraordinary meal by introducing robust flavors and textures. It’s a culinary adventure that combines the best of traditional Italian-American pasta with a distinctly American, frontier-inspired twist.
Unlike its more conventional cousin, Cowboy Spaghetti encourages a dynamic approach to cooking. While it often features a medley of meats, primarily ground beef and bacon, its essence lies in adaptability. You can truly make it your own by incorporating different spices, vegetables, or even other ground meats you have in your pantry. The result is always a profoundly hearty and filling dish, perfect for a hungry crowd after a long day. And staying true to its “cowboy” namesake, this dish typically carries a delightful spicy kick, though we’ll guide you on how to adjust the heat to perfectly suit your family’s preferences. Best of all, this impressive meal comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend feast.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
- Unbeatably Hearty: Packed with ground beef and crispy bacon, this dish is incredibly satisfying and will keep you full for hours.
- Simple & Straightforward: Despite its rich flavor, the recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adjust the spice level, add your favorite toppings, or experiment with different meats and cheeses to match your family’s tastes.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you likely already have stocked, reducing the need for special grocery trips.
- Family-Approved: This is a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will ask for again and again.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good, if not better, the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Spaghetti
Absolutely! While the “cowboy” spirit often implies a bit of a kick, you can easily dial down the heat. If you find Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) too spicy, even though its heat disperses well in this dish, simply substitute it with an equal amount of regular canned diced tomatoes. Additionally, completely omit the hot sauce from the recipe to ensure a mild, family-friendly flavor profile. These adjustments will allow everyone to enjoy the rich taste without any overwhelming spice.
Toppings are where you can truly personalize your Cowboy Spaghetti experience! Beyond the classic shredded cheddar and green onions, consider adding dollops of cool sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. For an extra crunch, crushed tortilla chips or Fritos make an excellent addition. A generous spoonful of tangy salsa or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing can also elevate the flavors. If you’re craving more heat, sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) or an extra splash of your favorite hot sauce will do the trick. Setting up a “topping bar” allows each person to customize their plate just the way they like it, making dinner interactive and fun!
Not at all! The beauty of Cowboy Spaghetti lies in its versatility. While bacon and ground beef create a classic, savory combination that we particularly enjoy, feel free to use your preferred meats. Ground turkey or chicken can be lighter alternatives. If you’re a fan of a richer, more robust flavor, ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference) would be an excellent choice. You could even use a mix of different ground meats to create your unique flavor profile.
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a wonderful, robust flavor that complements the dish perfectly, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Colby Jack offers a milder, creamier taste, while Pepper Jack adds a delightful hint of spice. Monterey Jack is another fantastic option for its smooth melting quality and subtle flavor. A blend of Mexican cheeses would also work beautifully, enhancing the Southwestern notes of the dish. Choose your favorite melting cheese to make this recipe truly yours!
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal for days to come. Once the Cowboy Spaghetti has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It can then be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Cowboy Spaghetti is simple, and with a few tricks, it can taste just as fresh as when it was first made. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or a larger batch in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Because spaghetti noodles tend to absorb a lot of the sauce as they sit, you might find the dish a bit dry. To counteract this, add a splash of water, beef broth, or even a little extra tomato sauce while reheating. This will help loosen the sauce and bring it back to the perfect consistency. For best results, stir gently and frequently until heated through. Alternatively, if you plan to save portions, consider storing the sauce and cooked spaghetti noodles separately and combining them only when serving to prevent the noodles from becoming too soggy or absorbing too much liquid.
Essential Ingredients for Cowboy Spaghetti
Crafting the perfect Cowboy Spaghetti relies on a blend of flavorful and comforting ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each component:
- Bacon and Ground Beef: These are the stars of the show, providing a rich, savory foundation. The bacon adds a smoky depth and incredible texture, while the ground beef makes the dish substantial and satisfying. Remember, Cowboy Spaghetti is all about using what you have, so feel free to experiment with other ground meats like sausage, turkey, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Onion and Garlic: The aromatic backbone of any great sauce. A small diced onion will provide a subtle sweetness and depth, while fresh minced garlic is crucial for that pungent, warm flavor. While jarred garlic can be a time-saver, nothing truly compares to the vibrant taste of fresh cloves.
- Crushed Fire Roasted Tomatoes: Don’t confuse these with spicy tomatoes! Fire-roasted tomatoes are a game-changer, offering a distinct smoky flavor that adds incredible complexity to the sauce. They are charred over an open flame before being crushed and canned, infusing the dish with a rustic, deep taste that sets it apart.
- Rotel (Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies): This ingredient brings that signature “cowboy” kick. Rotel combines diced tomatoes with a mild to medium heat from green chilies. If you prefer extra heat, look for the “hot” version. For a milder dish, as mentioned in our FAQ, simply substitute with an additional can of plain diced tomatoes.
- Tomato Sauce and Beef Broth: These form the liquid base of our flavorful sauce. Tomato sauce provides a smooth, concentrated tomato flavor, while beef broth adds richness and helps create the perfect consistency. If you’re monitoring your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium or no-sodium varieties for both.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Often a secret weapon in savory dishes, Worcestershire sauce adds an umami depth that you won’t distinctly taste but will notice in the overall richness of the sauce. It’s that subtle background flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
- Hot Sauce (Optional): For those who love an extra fiery kick, a dash of hot sauce is perfect. Brands like Texas Pete or Frank’s RedHot are excellent choices, but use your personal favorite. This is entirely optional, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder taste.
- Spaghetti: The classic choice for this dish, spaghetti noodles are ideal for holding onto the thick, hearty sauce. While spaghetti works best, you can certainly use other long pasta shapes like linguine or fettuccine. Angel hair pasta cooks faster but might be a bit delicate for such a robust sauce, and smaller pasta shapes haven’t been tested with this particular recipe, so stick to the longer strands for the best experience.
- Cheddar Cheese and Green Onions (for serving): These garnishes add a fresh, sharp, and visually appealing finish to each serving. Shredded cheddar cheese melts slightly into the warm pasta, enhancing the creamy texture, while sliced green onions provide a fresh, pungent counterpoint. While not strictly necessary, they truly elevate the dish.
How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this delicious Cowboy Spaghetti is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Follow these steps for a perfect, hearty meal:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Begin by adding the chopped bacon to a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot. Cook the bacon over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until it’s wonderfully crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, transferring it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat. It’s important to leave the rendered bacon grease in the pot, as this will infuse the ground beef with an incredible depth of flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
To the same pot with the bacon grease, add the ground beef and diced onion. Break up the ground beef with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir often, ensuring the beef crumbles evenly and cooks thoroughly, losing all its pink color. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once the beef is fully browned, carefully drain any excess grease from the pot. This step ensures your sauce isn’t overly oily. Finally, add the minced garlic to the cooked beef and onion mixture. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, releasing its aromatic essence without burning.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce to Perfection
Now it’s time to build the rich sauce. Add the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, Rotel, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes. During this time, stir often to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The goal is to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavors and thickening the sauce, but still keeping it wonderfully saucy to coat the spaghetti.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente – firm yet tender. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti well in a colander, shaking off as much excess water as possible.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained spaghetti directly to the pot with the simmering sauce. Using kitchen tongs, toss and stir the spaghetti with the sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. This step is crucial for ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. Tongs are particularly helpful here for mixing the pasta and sauce efficiently. Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti immediately, garnishing each portion generously with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh sliced green onions, and the reserved crispy bacon on top. Enjoy this robust and satisfying meal!
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
Cowboy Spaghetti is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Consider these ideas for a well-rounded feast:
- Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks: A classic pairing for any pasta dish, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich, savory sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty spaghetti, adding freshness and balance.
- Cornbread: Leaning into the “cowboy” theme, warm cornbread can be a delicious and comforting side, perfect for a rustic meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus offer a healthy, vibrant side that complements the main dish without overpowering it.
- Beverages: For drinks, a cold iced tea, lemonade, or a light-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel or Merlot would pair wonderfully with the robust flavors.
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Cowboy Spaghetti
Cowboy spaghetti is made with ingredients like bacon and ground beef and combines it with tender spaghetti coated in a deliciously flavored tomato sauce!
Print Recipe |
Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
- 10 ounce can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles)
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 – 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti
- shredded cheddar cheese, to serve
- sliced green onion, to serve
Instructions
Add the chopped bacon to a dutch oven and cook until crispy over medium heat, 8-10 minutes. Stir often. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel. Leave the bacon grease in the pot.
Add the ground beef and onion, crumble the beef, and cook until there is no pink left, stir often, 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease from the pot.
Add the garlic and stir it in until fragrant, 30 seconds.
Add the crushed tomatoes, Rotel, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring to a simmer and simmer for 10-15 minutes uncovered; stir often so nothing burns on the bottom. You want to cook out some of the liquid but still be saucy.
While the sauce is simmering, boil the spaghetti and drain well.
Add the spaghetti to the pot and stir to combine, tongs are helpful with this step.
Serve immediately with cheddar cheese, green onions, and the crispy bacon on top of each portion.
Video Tutorial
Recipe Notes
- Please refer to our FAQ’s and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- To reheat, do so back in the pot or microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or stock to loosen it up, as the spaghetti will absorb a lot of the sauce as it sits. Alternatively, if you know you are not going to eat the whole batch at once, you can serve the sauce over the spaghetti per person, rather than mixing everything together at once.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
Calories: 458kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 19g | Sodium: 613mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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