Why You’ll Love This Savory Cowboy Spaghetti

Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready for a spaghetti recipe that’s so unbelievably delicious, it’ll make you wanna lasso the stars? This Spicy Cowboy Spaghetti is not your grandma’s pasta dish (unless your grandma was a total badass in the kitchen!). It’s a hearty, flavorful explosion of Southwestern spice and comfort food goodness, all wrapped up in a quick and easy package.

Imagine this: tender ground beef simmering in a rich, smoky tomato sauce, infused with the tangy kick of Worcestershire and hot sauce. The perfect bite? Al dente spaghetti coated in that incredible sauce, topped with melty cheddar cheese and the fresh crunch of green onions. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes – savory, spicy, slightly sweet, and utterly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a cozy night in. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, leaving you more time to enjoy the deliciousness! Get ready to experience a taste of the Wild West, right on your dinner table. Your tastebuds will thank you!

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

1 large onion: Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
2 cloves garlic: A must-have for adding depth and aromatic flavor to the ground beef.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, earthy spice.
1 pound ground beef: The star of the show! Choose your favorite lean ground beef.
1 1/2 cups beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings a unique savory umami flavor.
2 teaspoons hot sauce: Adds a fiery kick. Adjust to your preferred spice level!
8 ounces spaghetti noodles: Classic pasta that perfectly absorbs the flavorful sauce.
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Ro-Tel Original): Provides a spicy and slightly sweet kick.
1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
1 (4 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds body and consistency to the sauce.
1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, creamy finish.
3 green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is easier than rounding up a herd of cattle.

Sauté the aromatics: Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil (optional, but recommended for extra flavor!) and then add the onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Tip: Don’t burn the garlic! Low and slow is key here.
Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Tip: For a richer flavor, try browning the beef in batches to ensure it gets properly browned and not steamed.
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Bring to a simmer, then add the diced tomatoes with green chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a deeper, richer flavor. Tip: The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together!
Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the pasta water for extra flavor.
Combine and serve: Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it to the pot with the sauce. Stir gently to combine. Serve immediately, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions. Tip: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro would also be a delightful addition.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cowboy Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips:

Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite) for the best texture.
Adjust the spice level: Start with 2 teaspoons of hot sauce and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away!
Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to personalize the recipe.

Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this classic? Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian ground beef or lentils for a hearty plant-based option.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
Add some veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms during the sauce simmering stage.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid over-heating, as it may dry out the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend would be delicious substitutes.
How long does the Cowboy Spaghetti last in the freezer? It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.
What if I don’t have fire-roasted tomatoes? Regular canned diced tomatoes will work just fine, although the flavor will be slightly less smoky.
Can I use different types of pasta? While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes, like penne, rotini, or even shells.

The Final Word

This Spicy Cowboy Spaghetti is a true crowd-pleaser – a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The blend of spicy and savory flavors, combined with the ease of preparation, makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or fun gatherings. So saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, and give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you love it, please give it a rating! Happy cooking!

Cowboy Spaghetti

A hearty and flavorful spaghetti dish with ground beef and a spicy tomato sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Servings 6 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

Large pot For boiling the spaghetti
Large skillet For cooking the beef and sauce

Ingredients

Vegetables

1 onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
3 green onions sliced, for garnish

Meat and Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1.5 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce or to taste
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
8 ounces spaghetti noodles
1 10 ounce can diced tomatoes with green chiles such as Ro-Tel Original
1 14.5 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes
1 4 ounce can tomato sauce
0.5 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Instructions

Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
While spaghetti cooks, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Add diced tomatoes with green chiles, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
Serve immediately, topped with shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced green onions.

Notes

Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred spice level.

The Ultimate Savory Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe