Cowboy Spaghetti

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and a mix of savory spices. Perfect for family dinners, it's a meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of cowboys!

Emma Parker

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:35:55.934Z

Growing up in the Southwest, Cowboy Spaghetti was a staple in our household. It captures the spirit of the open range and the comfort of home-cooked meals. This dish is perfect for gatherings and is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and filling, perfect for a satisfying meal
  • Rich flavors from the combination of spices and beef
  • Easy to make, with minimal cleanup required

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Cowboy Spaghetti is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together. With its robust flavors and filling ingredients, this dish is perfect for gatherings, weekend dinners, or even a cozy night in. As the name suggests, it captures the essence of cowboy cuisine, emphasizing hearty ingredients and simple preparations that yield delicious results.

This recipe is particularly appealing to those who appreciate comfort food. The combination of ground beef and pasta creates a satisfying dish that's hard to resist. Plus, the addition of vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value, making it a well-rounded meal.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening, Cowboy Spaghetti fits the bill. Its ease of preparation ensures that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Flavorful Ingredients that Shine

The magic of Cowboy Spaghetti lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Ground beef serves as the hearty base, providing protein and rich flavor. When combined with spices like chili powder and cumin, the dish transforms into a savory delight that tantalizes the taste buds.

Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce not only add moisture but also create a beautiful sauce that envelops the spaghetti. The bell peppers and onions contribute a subtle sweetness that balances the dish, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Finally, the crowning touch of shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess and richness, elevating the dish to a new level. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that will please even the most discerning palates.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cowboy Spaghetti

To ensure your Cowboy Spaghetti turns out perfectly, consider using high-quality ground beef. Lean beef will produce less grease, allowing the flavors of the spices and vegetables to shine through. If you prefer, you can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

For an extra kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce. This will enhance the dish's flavor profile and add a bit of heat, making it even more exciting for spice lovers.

Don't forget that Cowboy Spaghetti can easily be made ahead of time. Prepare the meat sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat and mix with freshly cooked spaghetti for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smoother process!

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Mix with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss until well coated. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy your Cowboy Spaghetti!

Make sure to garnish with extra cheese if desired!

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad adds freshness and crunch, while garlic bread provides a perfect vessel for soaking up any extra sauce. Consider a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving Cowboy Spaghetti with a side of spicy pickles or pepperoncini can add an exciting contrast. The tangy flavors will enhance the overall dining experience and leave everyone wanting more.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the meat sauce separately from the pasta. This allows you to enjoy a quick meal later on. Simply thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop while cooking fresh spaghetti for a delicious meal in no time.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked Cowboy Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or add more vegetables.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Cowboy Spaghetti

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and a mix of savory spices. Perfect for family dinners, it's a meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of cowboys!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Emma Parker

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 8 oz spaghetti
  2. 1 lb ground beef
  3. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  4. 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  5. 1 cup bell pepper, diced
  6. 1 small onion, diced
  7. 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  8. 2 tsp chili powder
  9. 1 tsp cumin
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How-To Steps

Step 01

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender.

Step 03

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 04

Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss until well coated. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 05

Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy your Cowboy Spaghetti!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 30g