Cowboy Spaghetti is a flavorful twist on a classic pasta dish, packed with hearty ingredients and a zesty sauce that will make your taste buds dance. This comforting recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a touch of spice, all piled over perfectly cooked spaghetti and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that comes together quickly and makes for an easy weeknight dinner or a delicious weekend treat. Perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors with a little kick, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The savory combination of ground beef, chili powder, cumin, and green chilies gives the dish a southwestern flair that’s rich and hearty. The addition of bell peppers and onions adds a nice balance of sweetness and crunch, while the spaghetti serves as the perfect base for the flavorful meat sauce. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food—spicy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s a simple and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion
Green bell pepper
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Diced green chilies
Chili powder
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Spaghetti
Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Variations

Vegetarian Cowboy Spaghetti

For a vegetarian version of this dish, swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein such as lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. These options will absorb the rich, spicy flavors of the sauce while maintaining a satisfying texture.

Spicy Cowboy Spaghetti

If you like your food extra spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also use a hotter chili powder to amp up the heat.

Add More Veggies

Feel free to add more vegetables to this recipe. Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can all be delicious additions that will complement the flavors of the dish.

Make it Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular spaghetti. The sauce and toppings will still provide all the flavor you love.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break the beef apart as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce is ready, serve it over the cooked spaghetti. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the hot pasta. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Drain the Beef: After browning the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat before adding the vegetables. This will help keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh chili powder and cumin. Freshly ground spices pack more punch than old ones.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder or opt for a mild tomato sauce.
Grated Cheese: For a smoother melt, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese.

How to Serve

Cowboy Spaghetti is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado for added creaminess and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow the dish to cool completely before storing it.

Freezing

To freeze, place the leftover spaghetti and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, simply heat the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce if it’s become too thick during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative to ground beef. It will still absorb the flavors of the sauce and create a delicious dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meat sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply cook the spaghetti when you’re ready to serve and combine them.

3. How do I make the sauce spicier?

To increase the heat, add some chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce while it simmers.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the spaghetti with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini.

5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need to peel and dice them, and you may need to add a little extra tomato sauce or broth to achieve the desired consistency.

6. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein like black beans, lentils, or crumbled tempeh. The spices and sauce will still give it that hearty flavor.

7. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply skip the shredded cheese on top or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

8. Can I freeze Cowboy Spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce and cooked pasta separately or together. Just be sure to store them in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

9. How can I make this dish more filling?

For a heartier version, you can add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn, or serve it with a side of garlic bread.

10. Can I use different cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Parmesan.

Conclusion

Cowboy Spaghetti is a fun and flavorful take on traditional spaghetti that packs a punch with its bold spices and savory sauce. It’s easy to make, hearty, and guaranteed to be a hit with your family or guests. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its combination of ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, Cowboy Spaghetti is a comforting and tasty meal that you’ll want to make again and again.