Name: Cowboy Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef; 1 cup Chopped onion; 2 cups Tomato sauce; 0.5 cup Water; 1 tsp Dried oregano; 8 oz Spaghetti

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a family favorite: Cowboy Spaghetti. a chilly evening, the smell of simmering sauce filling the house, and an ice cold bowl of this comforting soup. Is there a dish waiting for you? Is it like a cross between spaghetti and chili? What is a recipe that has been passed down for generations? Who are the hungriest cowboys? What makes it special? What’s the combination of hearty Ground Beef, flavorful spices, and that little hint of salt? What is that sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds? What is a good recipe for cowboy spaghetti?

What is cowboy spaghetti?

What is the best way to break it down? Cowboy Spaghetti is essentially a hearty, beefy pasta dish with an extra kick of Southwestern flavor. Think of it as a dressed-up spaghetti, simmered in chili-like sauce. It’s not your typical Italian Spaghetti. This one has some oomph. I’m not entirely sure where the name comes from, but I imagine it’s because it is a Greek word. What are some of the best meals to eat after a long day on the ranch? It’s essentially spaghetti noodles coated in a rich, tomato-based sauce loaded with ground beef. What are some of the best Southwestern spices? Is it simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What is the best recipe for cowboy spaghetti? First off, the flavor is amazing! What is the combination of savory ground beef, sweet tomato sauce, and warm spices? I always add a little bit of brown sugar to my recipe. ) to really bring out the sweetness and balance the flavors. Then there’s the simplicity. This isn’t some complicated, multi-step recipe that requires hours in the kitchen. What is a one-pot wonder that comes together in under an hour? I’ve made it countless times, and it never fails to impress, especially on nights when I am short on energy. I’m all about easy and delicious! The cost-efficiency is another huge plus. Ground beef is relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients. What is in your pantry? What I love about this dish is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking. Add more beans, swap out ground beef for ground turkey, or throw in some extra veggies. What are the endless possibilities for culinary creativity? Plus, it’s even better the next day. What are the best comfort food recipes for cowboy spaghetti?

How do you make cowboy spaghetti?

Quick Overview

How do you make cowboy spaghetti? I’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic, then you will add in the tomatoes, and you’re done. What are some good recipes for tomato sauce? Let it simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together beautifully. While the sauce is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to package directions. What are some good ways to serve spaghetti with sauce? Is it easier than ordering takeout?

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer lean ground for this recipe)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
* 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference) *1 teaspoon black pepper (add to taste)
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little extra heat)
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar (this is my secret ingredient!)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound spaghetti

Optional Toppings
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Sour cream
* Chopped green onions
* Diced tomatoes

How do I follow step

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. What is the best way to break up a potato with sandpaper? Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. How do you cook garlic?

Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Drain any excess grease from the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Serve immediately. What are the ingredients for brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and paprika? How do I customize this recipe to my liking? I tend to go heavy on cumin.

Step 3: Simmer, Simmer, Simmer

Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. I find that stirring every 10 minutes works just fine.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and diced tomatoes. If desired, use tomatoes. My family loves all the toppings!

What should I serve it with?

Cowboy Spaghetti is a good meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here’s the recipe. What are some serving suggestions? What are some good side dishes to serve with a vinaigrette dressing? It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spaghetti. If you want something a little heartier, try serving it with Garlic Bread or cornbread. My grandma’s cornbread recipe is my all-time favorite. What are some good iced teas to enjoy with a meal? For a more festive occasion, try serving it with some margaritas. What is my go-to ice-cold Coke? I always make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand because it can get a little messy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cowboy Spaghetti

What are some of the best tips for making cowboy spaghetti? Do not be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder. What are some different types of chili powders? What is the same with beans? I used kidney beans and pinto beans in this recipe, but you can easily substitute them for black beans or peas. Great Northern beans. For the ground beef, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of meat. Is ground turkey or ground chicken a good choice? I’ve even made it with plant-based ground meat alternatives and it turned out surprisingly good. What are some tips for a sauce to simmer for long time? The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I usually let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, but sometimes I’ll allow it to go for an hour or more. Just make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. How do you cook spaghetti al dente? How do you make pasta a little better? Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. How do you add starchy water to spaghetti sauce? Is it a game changer?

What are some of the best Storing and Rehe

Cowboy Spaghetti is great for meal prepping since it stores really well. If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave it or heat it up on the stovetop. If microwaving, add a splash of water or beef broth to prevent it from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze Cowboy Spaghetti for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. I always label my freezer containers with the date so I know how long it’s been in there. And just like when reheating from the fridge, add a splash of water when you reheat to avoid it getting too dry.

What are some frequently asked questions?

Can I make this vegetarian?

How do I substitute ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute? What are some extra veggies you can add to your meal? What is the substance in a dish?

Can you use different types of beans?

Can you use any type of beans you like? What are some good black beans to use in this recipe?

How can I make my hair spicier?

There are several ways to add more heat to this dish. You can add more chili powder or cayenne pepper, or you can use a spicier type of chili powder, such as chipotle chili powder. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and onions as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cooked spaghetti during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Can I add vegetables?

Of course! Diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even zucchini would be great additions. Add them when you brown the beef.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: my family’s beloved Cowboy Spaghetti recipe. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. What I love most about this dish is that it’s so easy to customize and make your own. Whether you like it spicy, mild, or somewhere in between, you can adjust the spices to your liking. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of beans or meat. The possibilities are endless! I really hope you give this recipe a try. I know you and your family will love it as much as we do. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out my other posts. And if you try this Cowboy Spaghetti recipe, be sure to let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!