If you’re craving a deliciously rich and satisfying meal, look no further than Cowboy Spaghetti. This mouthwatering dish combines ground beef, crispy bacon, and a flavorful tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
1 pound spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound bacon, chopped
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped bacon, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine and Heat: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated.
Add Cheese and Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Serving Tips:
Presentation: Serve Cowboy Spaghetti directly from the skillet or transfer to a large serving dish. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a visually appealing touch.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complements the meal and helps soak up the flavorful sauce.
Portion Control: For a balanced meal, serve with a side of vegetables or a green salad. Each serving provides a hearty amount of pasta, so you may want to portion out the spaghetti to ensure everyone gets a satisfying amount without overeating.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Cowboy Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the spaghetti, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta, if possible.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
Avoid Overheating: When reheating, avoid overheating the dish to prevent the cheese from becoming tough and the pasta from drying out. Warm until just heated through.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the dish.
Can I make Cowboy Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Cowboy Spaghetti a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. The flavors may even improve as they meld together overnight.
Is it possible to make Cowboy Spaghetti without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer or need a lighter version. For added flavor without bacon, consider using extra ground beef, a splash of liquid smoke, or additional seasonings to enhance the taste.
Can I freeze Cowboy Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Spaghetti. Divide it into portions and store in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion:
Cowboy Spaghetti offers a hearty, satisfying meal with a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef, bacon, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey cheddar cheese, makes this dish a comforting choice for any occasion. The addition of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and color, making your plate as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to please.
📖 Recipe:
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Cowboy Spaghetti
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty, flavor-packed pasta dish that combines savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and a rich tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its delicious blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to be a hit at your next meal.
Ingredients
1 pound spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound bacon, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped bacon, cooking until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is softened (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover to melt cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a different flavor, try using other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
You can omit bacon for a lighter version or add extra ground beef for more protein.
Make ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 600 kcal per serving
