Cowboy Spaghetti

Name: Cowboy Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that combines pasta with a savory meat sauce, inspired by the rugged spirit of the Wild West.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:07:37.233Z

This Cowboy Spaghetti recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its robust flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to meal for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for hungry appetites
A delightful blend of savory meat sauce and comforting pasta
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

      

A Taste of the Wild West

Cowboy Spaghetti draws inspiration from the rugged landscapes and hearty meals of the Wild West. It embodies the spirit of outdoor cooking, where meals were often prepared over an open fire. This dish combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavors of a savory meat sauce, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a robust and satisfying meal.

The history of Cowboy cuisine tells tales of cowboys and ranchers who relied on hearty, filling dishes to fuel their long days. Cowboy Spaghetti is a modern twist on these traditions, offering a comforting bowl of pasta that pays homage to the resourcefulness of the past. It's a dish that brings people together, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, Cowboy Spaghetti is the perfect solution. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in no time.

This dish is also highly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat sauce for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. You can even swap out the ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.

Leftovers and Storage Tips

One of the best things about Cowboy Spaghetti is that it makes fantastic leftovers! After enjoying your meal, simply store any remaining spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or quick lunches throughout the week.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can also pop it in the oven for a few minutes, topped with extra cheese, for a delicious baked version. This way, you get to enjoy the comforting flavors all over again, making Cowboy Spaghetti a dish that keeps on giving!

Ingredients

For the Cowboy Spaghetti

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients to make your Cowboy Spaghetti. Enjoy the cooking process!

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

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

Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti to the meat sauce, tossing to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Spaghetti is delightful on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the meat sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Pair your meal with a hearty red wine or a cold beer to complement the robust flavors. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a wedge of lime can be refreshing and enhance your dining experience.

Nutritional Information

Cowboy Spaghetti not only satisfies your hunger but also provides essential nutrients. With ground beef as a primary ingredient, it offers a good source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. The addition of tomatoes brings in antioxidants like lycopene, while the cheese adds calcium for strong bones.

To make this dish even healthier, consider using whole grain spaghetti for extra fiber, which can aid digestion and keep you feeling full longer. Including more vegetables in the sauce can also boost the nutritional content, making it a well-rounded meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef in this recipe.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the beef with a mix of your favorite vegetables or plant-based meat.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze Cowboy Spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze the meat sauce separately. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.