Cowboy Spaghetti

If "cowboy spaghetti" makes you think more about spaghetti western movies than tonight's dinner, you wouldn't be alone. But like the movies, this is a recipe you won't soon forget.

Cowboy spaghetti is like a much more smoky and savory spaghetti. This is really intended to be a fridge and pantry clean-out type of dish—throw in whatever produce you have (peppers, onions, celery) and canned goods (tomatoes, beans, and veggies). You can't go wrong.

Ingredients for Cowboy Spaghetti

While the ingredient list might seem long, the variety of seasonings and additions in this hearty pasta dish translates to an incredibly satisfying dish. To make cowboy spaghetti, you'll need:

• Uncooked spaghetti: The pasta base of the dish.
• Thick-cut bacon slices: Adds a salty, smoky flavor and crispy texture.
• Ground round: Bulks up the dish with a hearty, meaty element.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic cloves: For a savory complexity.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Chili powder: For a mild heat.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami-rich flavor.
• Fresh oregano: For a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts the richness of the dish.
• Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• Garlic powder: For an additional punch of garlic flavor.
• Brown ale: Adds depth and complexity while helping to deglaze the pot.
• Whole peeled plum tomatoes: The base of the sauce with rustic chunks of tomato.
• Canned dark kidney beans: Adds protein and a velvety texture to the dish.
• Canned tomato sauce: Thickens the sauce and adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
• Hot sauce: For a spicy kick. Feel free to add more or less as desired.
• Sharp Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor to the dish.
• Scallions: For a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color. You can also use chives for a more delicate touch.
  

How To Make Cowboy Spaghetti

This dish can be made start to finish in just over 30 minutes, making it a quick and hearty option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Cook spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package directions in boiling salted water. Drain and set aside.
• Step 2. Cook bacon: Cook bacon in a large Dutch oven, stirring occasionally, until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Step 3. Cook beef: Increase heat and cook ground round until browned and no longer pink.
• Step 4. Add spices and herbs: Add onion, garlic, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent. Add chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, cumin, and garlic powder; cook until fragrant.
• Step 5. Add ale, tomatoes, and beans: Stir in brown ale; cook, scraping up browned bits, until slightly reduced. Stir in tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, hot sauce, and remaining salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
• Step 6. Combine spaghetti and meat sauce: Remove from heat; toss in spaghetti to coat. Serve topped with cheese, bacon, and scallions.

Cowboy Spaghetti Variations

Add some variety to this dish with these ingredient substitutions or additions:

• Pasta: Swap the spaghetti with whole wheat spaghetti, fettuccini, pappardelle, or other types as needed.
• Bacon: Substitute with chorizo, pancetta, or turkey bacon.
• Ground round: Use ground turkey, pork, chicken, or sausage in its place.
• Heat: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika in the place of chili powder if preferred.
• Oregano: Use fresh cilantro or parsley.
• Beer: Opt for a stout or porter for additional richness, or a light lager for a more mild addition.
• Tomato: Swap whole peeled tomatoes with fire-roasted tomatoes or diced tomatoes with green chiles.
• Beans: You can also use black beans, pinto beans, or red kidney beans.
• Cheese: Swap with pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or other favorite cheeses, as desired.

What To Serve With Cowboy Spaghetti

Cowboy spaghetti is a hearty dish all on its own, but to bulk up the meal, serve with garlic bread, biscuits, cornbread, or warm rolls to soak up the tomato-based sauce. A simple salad can add a fresh, crisp contrast, while grilled veggies or a fresh slaw can help round out the meal.

How To Store and Reheat Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti

Store leftover cowboy spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop, in the microwave, or covered in a preheated 350°F oven until hot throughout, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry.

More Cowboy-Inspired Recipes You'll Love

These satisfying recipes are made with bold, hearty ingredients that are reminiscent of traditional "cowboy" cooking. They're rustic, filling, and packed with flavor.

• Cowboy Casserole
• Cast-Iron Cowboy Steak
• Cowboy Fried Corn
• Cowboy Hash Brown Breakfast Sandwich
• Cowboy Butter
• Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies