If you have a craving for a hearty, flavorful pasta dish with a bit of a southwestern kick, this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe will be your new go-to comfort food. Combining tender spaghetti with juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, a medley of spices, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, it’s a celebration of bold tastes and satisfying textures all in one skillet. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this dish brings together familiar ingredients in a vibrant, rustic way that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though the ingredient list may seem straightforward, each component is crucial for building the rich and smoky flavor profile that defines this cowboy classic. From the savory ground beef and crispy bacon to the blend of spices and the creamy melted cheese, every item plays its part in creating a balanced and irresistible dish.

1 pound spaghetti: The pasta base that soaks up all the delicious sauce and spices perfectly.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the meat and bacon while adding subtle richness.
1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory depth.
1/2 pound bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky crunch that elevates the entire dish.
1 large onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and texture once softened.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth and flavor complexity.
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Offers juiciness and a fresh tang to the sauce.
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Creates a silky, tomato-rich base for the flavors to meld.
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a subtle tang to deepen the sauce.
1 tablespoon chili powder: Brings just the right amount of heat and southwestern flair.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces earthy notes that complement the chili powder.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky aroma that enhances the bacon’s flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the dish.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creamy, melty goodness on top for ultimate comfort.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.

How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This step is key because the pasta will continue to soak up the sauce later on, so you want it just tender enough to hold up without becoming mushy. After cooking, drain and set aside to keep it ready for mixing.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Bacon

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef along with the chopped bacon. Cook these together until the beef is browned and the bacon is crispy, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the meat well at this stage gives the dish its rich, savory foundation. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat to keep the flavors focused and the texture just right.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the meat. Let them cook until the onion becomes translucent and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. This softening process unlocks sweetness from the onion while the garlic infuses its fragrant warmth, creating the aromatic base for the sauce.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring everything together. Then sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, plus salt and pepper. Let the whole mixture simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Spaghetti with Sauce

Now add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with your flavorful sauce. Toss it all well so the pasta is evenly coated. Let it cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors soak in deeply and the dish warm through.

Step 6: Melt the Cheddar Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the pan briefly so the cheese melts into a luscious, gooey layer that ties the dish together with creamy richness.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top if you’re using it, adding a bright touch of color and freshness. Serve your Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe immediately while it’s still warm and cheesy for a true crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the fresh parsley, feel free to add sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream to complement the bold southwestern flavors. A handful of crushed tortilla chips lightly sprinkled on top can add an unexpected, fun crunch that works beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but if you want to turn it into a full meal, simple sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables provide refreshing balance. Cornbread or garlic bread are also fantastic accompaniments that soak up any extra sauce nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe in individual cast iron skillets at the table for a rustic, cowboy-chic look. Alternatively, pile it onto warm tortillas and top with avocado slices for a fusion taco-spaghetti dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to intensify overnight, making for even better leftovers. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze the dish in portion-sized containers. It freezes nicely for up to 2 months. When it comes time to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture retention.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Cowboy Spaghetti gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also microwave individual servings, covering to keep moisture in while melting the cheese anew.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind it may yield a slightly milder flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasoning to keep that classic cowboy taste.

Is this dish spicy?

The Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe has a gentle kick from the chili powder and spices, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. Feel free to adjust the chili powder amount or add hot sauce if you prefer more heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can certainly swap the ground beef and bacon for plant-based alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to keep it vegetarian while maintaining a hearty texture.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is the traditional choice as it melts beautifully and adds a sharp creamy flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a slightly different taste.

Is Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s an excellent option for meal prep as it stores and reheats well. Just divide into portions after cooking and follow storage tips to enjoy quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a hearty, flavorful, and downright comforting meal to your dinner rotation, the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute must-try. It melds simple ingredients in a way that feels special and celebratory, perfect to share with loved ones or enjoy any night you crave a little something extra on your plate. Give it a go and watch it become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe

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4.3 from 74 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender spaghetti with a savory sauce of ground beef, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and a bold blend of spices. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, this comforting meal is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 pound spaghetti

Meats

1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound bacon, chopped

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Canned Goods

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

Seasonings & Sauces

1 tablespoon olive oil
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)

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Instructions

Cook the spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to be added later.
Brown the meats: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped bacon, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and fragrant.
Create the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat all the pasta evenly. Cook the mixture for another 2 to 3 minutes on medium heat to ensure everything is heated through and well combined.
Melt cheese topping: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the pasta. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating a rich and creamy finish.
Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or jalapeños with the chili powder.
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Adding a splash of cream or milk when melting the cheese creates a creamier texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American