When I crave something filling and full of bold flavors, this Cowboy Spaghetti hits the spot every time. It’s a rustic, homey dish that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a smoky, spicy tomato sauce.
One evening after a long day, I whipped up this dish and immediately felt wrapped in comfort. The aroma of sautéed onions, garlic, and peppers mixed with barbecue and chili spices made the whole house smell like a cozy cabin. The melted cheddar cheese on top was the perfect finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love It
- Hearty and saucy with tender pasta and chunky vegetables
- Rich tomato-based sauce with smoky barbecue and chili spices
- Quick sautéing and simmering method for easy weeknight cooking
- Beautifully rustic presentation topped with melted cheddar and fresh parsley
Ready in under an hour, this meal is as satisfying as it is approachable.
PrintCowboy Spaghetti
A hearty and saucy pasta dish featuring ground beef simmered in a smoky tomato-based sauce spiced with barbecue and chili flavors, topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
12 oz spaghetti pasta
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Cook spaghetti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss to combine, coating pasta with sauce and vegetables.
Serve pasta twirled into mounds on round white plates.
Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s the easiest way to reheat leftovers?
Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
Save this recipe, print it out, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dinner tonight!