If you crave a dish that bursts with bold, smoky flavors and the comforting goodness of a classic pasta, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is a treasure trove of textures and tastes, from the crunch of crisp bacon to the spicy kick of sriracha, all wrapped up in a rich, tomatoey sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm, hearty hug after a long day, perfect for family dinners or when friends come over looking for something a little different but oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating that perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory in every bite.
- 1 pound dry spaghetti: The classic pasta base that soaks up the bold sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle richness while helping cook the bacon and beef evenly.
- 3 slices thick bacon, diced: Crisps up for that irresistible smoky crunch you’ll want to sprinkle on top.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty, meaty flavor and protein to make this dish truly filling.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings natural sweetness and depth as it softens with the meat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic punch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce: Adds a lively, spicy note with just the right kick.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory complexity of the sauce.
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth: Keeps the sauce juicy and savory without overpowering.
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes: Brings smoky, tangy tomato flavor straight from the can.
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich tomato base for the sauce.
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts over the top with sharp, creamy goodness.
- 3 scallions, diced: Adds a fresh, zesty finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your dry spaghetti just until al dente, following the package directions. This means it should be tender but with a slight bite, so it doesn’t get mushy when combined with the sauce later. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside; this simple step sets the stage for the dish’s satisfying texture.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon and Sauté the Meat
While the pasta cooks, take a large, deep skillet and heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced bacon and let it cook until it turns gloriously golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, so it stays crunchy. Leave about a tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet to add flavor to the ground beef and onions. Add the beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef with a spatula, and cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease, then stir in minced garlic for about 20 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the meaty, savory backbone of the sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce with a Kick
Now for the magic! Stir in the sriracha hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce for that perfect blend of heat and umami depth. Pour in the beef broth, crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato sauce, mixing everything together. Let the sauce gently bubble over medium-low heat for around 6 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and concentrate all those bold flavors. This simmering step is where the dish earns its smoky, spicy character.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Finally, add your cooked spaghetti straight into the skillet with the sauce and toss everything until the pasta is fully coated in that luscious, spicy meat sauce. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if you want. Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe hot, topped generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced scallions, and that irresistible crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Each forkful is a delightful mix of creamy, spicy, smoky, and fresh flavors – trust me, it’s unforgettable!
How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
This dish shines with simple toppings that elevate every bite. Sharp cheddar cheese melts over the hot pasta creating a gooey, savory layer. Fresh diced scallions add a zesty crunch, and the salty, crispy bacon sprinkled on top gives a wonderful texture contrast. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a pinch of freshly chopped cilantro for an extra flavor twist.
Side Dishes
Since Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe is rich and packed with flavor, lighter sides are ideal. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables works beautifully to balance the meal. Garlic bread or warm cornbread are perfect if you want to keep things comforting and hearty, soaking up every last bit of that smoky tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual family dinners, serving this dish straight from the skillet is a crowd-pleaser. If you’re hosting friends, try individual ramekins or shallow bowls topped with a bit of extra cheddar and scallions for a pretty presentation. You could even bake the combined pasta and sauce in a casserole dish with a cheese crust on top until bubbly and golden – a delicious twist on the Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe that’s perfect for potlucks or make-ahead meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making it tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool the pasta completely before sealing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save this deliciousness for later, Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe freezes well. Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Cowboy Spaghetti gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave covered for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
FAQs
Can I make this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef and bacon with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and smoked paprika for a similar smoky profile. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level comes mainly from the sriracha hot sauce. It adds a moderate kick that complements the smoky bacon and tangy tomatoes. You can adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference or omit it entirely for a milder version.
What cheese works best if I don’t have sharp cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its meltability and tang, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky gouda. Just make sure your cheese melts well to get that creamy texture everyone loves.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti is classic, feel free to use other long pasta types like linguine or fettuccine, or even short pastas like penne or rigatoni if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly as a whole meal or just the leftovers?
It’s best to freeze leftovers after cooking. Preparing the entire dish from raw and freezing can affect the texture of the pasta. Cook, combine, cool, and then freeze for best results so your Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe tastes fresh when reheated.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the soul-satisfying flavors of this Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe to turn an ordinary night into something memorable. It’s easy to make, full of taste, and perfect for sharing with the people you care about. So grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to dig into a plate of comfort that’ll soon become a family favorite. Trust me, you’re going to love every savory, spicy, cheesy bite!
Print
Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty one-pan meal featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich, spicy tomato and ground beef sauce with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh scallions. This quick and easy skillet dinner delivers bold flavors with a smoky-sweet kick, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound dry spaghetti
- Salt, for boiling water
Meat and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 slices thick bacon, diced
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons sriracha hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
Toppings
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 scallions, diced
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the Meat and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large, deep, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon behind.
- Sauté Ground Beef and Onions: Add ground beef and diced onions to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the beef into crumbles, for 3 to 4 minutes until the beef is browned and no pink remains and the onions are softened. Drain off excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in sriracha hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about 6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the cowboy spaghetti among serving bowls. Top each serving with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced scallions, and reserved crispy bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious skillet meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- If cheddar is unavailable, try using Monterey Jack or a mild cheese of your choice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Adding a splash of cream or milk before the cheese can make the sauce creamier.
