Cowboy Spaghetti

Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together classic flavors in a fun and easy way. This recipe is perfect for families or anyone who enjoys a good, filling meal. The combination of ground beef, bacon, and cheese makes it a real crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Cowboy Spaghetti. First, it is simple to prepare, so even beginner cooks can make it with ease. Second, it’s a comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. Lastly, it is easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a family or having friends over, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to impress.

How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti

Making Cowboy Spaghetti is straightforward and quick. Just follow the steps below to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

12 oz spaghetti
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 1⁄2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1⁄4 cup chopped green onions
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions; then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Toss in the cooked spaghetti and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese, crispy bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti

Serve Cowboy Spaghetti hot, right out of the oven. It’s great on its own or with a simple side salad. You can also offer extra toppings like additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream for those who want to enhance their meal.

How to Store Cowboy Spaghetti

If you have leftovers of Cowboy Spaghetti, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove before serving again.

Tips to Make Cowboy Spaghetti

For a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mix.
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily adapt Cowboy Spaghetti by making it vegetarian. Simply omit the bacon and beef, and replace them with plant-based alternatives or additional vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based products for the sauce to keep it flavorful.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Cowboy Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Spaghetti. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. What can I serve with Cowboy Spaghetti?
You can serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

3. Can I make Cowboy Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving for a quick and easy meal.