Cowboy Spaghetti

Name: Cowboy Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the best of pasta and a savory meat sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:21:19.848Z

Cowboy Spaghetti is a dish inspired by the rustic flavors of the American West. It's a comforting recipe that combines pasta with ground beef, tomatoes, and a medley of spices that create a deliciously satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites
Packed with flavors from seasoned ground beef and rich tomato sauce
Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks

      

The Perfect Family Meal

Cowboy Spaghetti is not just another pasta dish; it's a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the spirit of the Wild West to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied. The combination of hearty ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with pasta creates a filling meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Easy to prepare and quick to cook, Cowboy Spaghetti is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to serve something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Flavorful Ingredients

The beauty of Cowboy Spaghetti lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Ground beef adds a rich, savory depth to the dish, while the combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce lends a balance of acidity and sweetness. The spices, including chili powder and cumin, elevate the flavor profile, providing a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.

Don’t forget the finishing touches! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy richness that perfectly complements the robust flavors of the meat sauce. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh aroma that brightens the overall dish.

Customizing Your Cowboy Spaghetti

One of the best aspects of Cowboy Spaghetti is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based alternative. You can also add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to boost the nutritional content and add more flavor.

If you love a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder or toss in some red pepper flakes. The beauty of this dish is that it can evolve with your preferences, making it an exciting option for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Cowboy Spaghetti

8 ounces spaghetti
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Mix all ingredients well before cooking.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce, tossing to combine. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and parsley for garnish.

Enjoy your Cowboy Spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Storage Tips

Cowboy Spaghetti is a fantastic dish for meal prep. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. This makes it an excellent choice for quick lunches throughout the week.

For longer storage, you can freeze Cowboy Spaghetti. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This way, you can enjoy your homemade meal whenever the craving strikes!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cowboy Spaghetti with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the spaghetti, adding freshness to your plate. Garlic bread, with its buttery and aromatic flavor, is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

For a fun twist, consider serving Cowboy Spaghetti in a taco shell for a unique take on this classic dish. Simply fill the shells with the spaghetti mixture, top with cheese, and bake until everything is heated through. This playful presentation is sure to impress your family and friends!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well with this sauce.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the meat sauce for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute.

→ What can I serve with Cowboy Spaghetti?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.