The aroma of smoky bacon sizzling in a skillet can transport me straight to a sunlit backyard barbecue. This is where Cowboy Spaghetti comes alive—a delightful fusion of Southern comfort and Italian heartiness that has become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights. This one-pot meal offers a joyful escape from the kitchen chaos, blending savory ground beef, rich fire-roasted tomatoes, and a swirl of BBQ sauce for an unexpected twist. One of the best parts? It’s meal prep-friendly! You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or diving into leftovers later. Plus, with variations to suit any dietary preference, I can easily swap ingredients to keep things exciting. Curious how this smoky delight can transform your dinner table? Let’s dive in! Why is Cowboy Spaghetti a Must-Try? Hearty Comfort: This one-pot meal showcases the perfect fusion of Southern BBQ and Italian pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. Meal Prep Friendly: Easily whip it up ahead of time; it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers with minimal effort during busy weeks. Flavor Explosion: The smoky flavors from bacon and BBQ sauce create a rich, savory experience, making each bite comforting and satisfying. Versatile Options: Customize your dish with ground beef alternatives or cheese substitutions for dietary preferences without losing flavor. Quick & Easy: A simple one-pot recipe means less cleanup! You’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time struggling with dirty dishes. Dive into this comforting delight and discover your family’s new favorite! Cowboy Spaghetti Ingredients For the Pasta • Ground Beef – The star of the dish, providing essential flavor and protein; go for 85/15 for the best balance. • Spaghetti – Offers a comforting texture that holds up to the sauce; linguine or bucatini are great thicker alternatives. For the Flavor Base • Bacon – Delivers a smoky depth that enhances the cowboy vibe; cook until crispy for maximum flavor. • Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness crucial for balancing savory notes in the dish. • Garlic – This staple ingredient is key for imparting that classic Italian flavor profile. For the Sauce • Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – These elevate your sauce with a delightful smoky note that is simply irresistible. • Tomato Sauce – Binds all the ingredients together, creating a rich and satisfying base. • BBQ Sauce – Offers a sweet and tangy twist; opt for hickory or mesquite for deeper smoky flavors. For the Creaminess • Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the dish, providing creamy richness; feel free to swap for Monterey Jack or smoked gouda if desired. Garnish Options • Parsley (optional) – A fresh sprinkle that adds a pop of color and brightness to the final dish. Let the comforting and hearty flavors of this Cowboy Spaghetti take center stage on your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cowboy Spaghetti Step 1: Boil the Pasta Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt, then add 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti and set it aside to dry. Step 2: Cook the Bacon In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add chopped bacon, allowing it to cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate while leaving 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet. This will infuse ample smoky flavor into your Cowboy Spaghetti. Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics In the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add a diced onion and sauté until translucent, roughly 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic. This aroma will create an enticing base for your Cowboy Spaghetti. Step 4: Brown the Beef Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye out for any excess grease, draining it if necessary. The meat should be nicely caramelized for the best flavor infusion in your dish. Step 5: Build the Sauce Stir in 14.5 ounces of fire-roasted tomatoes, 8 ounces of tomato sauce, and ¼ cup of BBQ sauce into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat to low. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce thickens, gradually add in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Step 6: Combine the Spaghetti Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet, gently tossing everything to ensure each strand is well coated. Let it sit for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the rich flavors of your Cowboy Spaghetti sauce. Step 7: Add Bacon and Cheese Finally, stir in the crispy bacon and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated. For an added touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, which will bring a pop of color and freshness to your delightful Cowboy Spaghetti. Serve hot and enjoy! Expert Tips for Cowboy Spaghetti Pasta Perfection: Avoid overcooking your spaghetti—aim for al dente to ensure every bite has the perfect chew, enhancing your Cowboy Spaghetti experience. Sauce Consistency: Keep your reserved pasta water handy! Adding it gradually helps adjust the sauce’s thickness without turning it into a paste, keeping the dish luxurious. Flavor Boost: For a spicy twist, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or choose a zesty BBQ sauce; it elevates the savory profiles beautifully. Prep Ahead: Make your Cowboy Spaghetti a day early! It reheats wonderfully, saving you time on busy nights while intensifying the flavors overnight. Ingredient Shifts: Don’t hesitate to substitute ground beef with turkey, or make it vegetarian with plant-based crumbles; flexibility in ingredients keeps meals exciting! Cowboy Spaghetti Variations & Substitutions Customize your Cowboy Spaghetti to delight your taste buds and accommodate dietary preferences! Ground Beef Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or even sausage for a different flavor profile. This can lighten the dish while maintaining heartiness. Vegetarian-Friendly: For a plant-based twist, use vegetable crumbles or lentils. You can also add in extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture. Cheese Tweaks: Change up the creamy layer with Monterey Jack or opt for smoked gouda for a distinct flavor journey. Each cheese variation brings a unique richness to your dish! Pasta Variety: Consider using whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or even zucchini noodles to lower carbs and increase veggies. The texture will change but can be delightful! Spicy Kick: Add a handful of crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy BBQ sauce to fire things up. Perfect for heat lovers looking to elevate their meal. Herb Infusions: Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can transform your Cowboy Spaghetti; they add aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors. Sweetness Amplifier: Try adding a splash of maple syrup or brown sugar to your sauce for an enticing sweet balance against the smoky backdrop. A surprising savory-sweet twist! Smoky Depth: Incorporate smoked paprika into the sauce for an extra layer of smoky flavor if you can’t get enough of those rich notes. For more flavorful recipes like this, check out my Spaghetti Alla Nerano for a creamy pasta dish or experiment with classic flavors in my Spaghetti Alla Nerano. Enjoy the freedom of flavor exploration with your Cowboy Spaghetti! What to Serve with Cowboy Spaghetti? Looking to elevate your Cowboy Spaghetti into a complete and cozy meal experience? Crisp Green Salad: The freshness of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors, adding a refreshing crunch. Buttery Garlic Bread: Soft, warm, and savory, this classic side gives a delightful, indulgent touch to your dinner, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, roasted to perfection, bring a delightful roasted flavor that balances the hearty pasta. Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy addition that adds a crunch while balancing the richness of the Cowboy Spaghetti—it’s a satisfying textural contrast. Macaroni Salad: A slightly sweet, creamy side can serve as a comforting counterpart. It’s reminiscent of potluck gatherings, evoking a touch of nostalgia. Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the overall meal, harmonizing with the smoky flavors of the dish while elevating your dining experience. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, these classic cookies offer a warm, gooey finish, making your meal unforgettable. Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat crust serve as a comforting dessert to round out your meal beautifully. Indulge in the delightful combinations that will make your Cowboy Spaghetti the star of the evening! Storage Tips for Cowboy Spaghetti Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the spaghetti cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: Freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Divide into single servings for easy reheating on busy nights or meal prep days. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce for perfect texture. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Cowboy Spaghetti out for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Make Ahead Options Perfect for busy weeknights, Cowboy Spaghetti is a fabulous dish to prep in advance! You can cook the entire meal—sautéing the bacon, onion, and garlic before adding the ground beef and building the sauce—up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply cool the prepared mixture, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain its delicious flavor and texture, avoid adding the cheese until you’re ready to heat and serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the Cowboy Spaghetti on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed, and stir in shredded cheese until melted. This strategic meal prep keeps your weeknight cooking stress-free while delivering the same comfort food goodness! Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe FAQs What type of ground beef should I choose for Cowboy Spaghetti? I recommend using 85/15 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and grease. This option provides a hearty flavor without being overly fatty. If you’re looking for lighter alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can also work well in this recipe. How long can I store leftover Cowboy Spaghetti? Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can affect texture and flavor. Can I freeze Cowboy Spaghetti? Absolutely! You can freeze Cowboy Spaghetti for up to 2 months. Divide it into single-serving portions for easy reheating. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water for the ideal consistency. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? If you find the sauce is too thick while cooking your Cowboy Spaghetti, no worries! Simply add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This keeps the dish creamy and prevents it from becoming pasty. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, Cowboy Spaghetti can be easily customized. For a vegetarian alternative, swap out the beef for plant-based crumbles and consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. If dairy is a concern, opt for lactose-free cheese or omit it entirely while adjusting seasoning to maintain flavor. Can I make Cowboy Spaghetti ahead of time? Certainly! In fact, this dish is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen and meld overnight, resulting in a more delicious meal when you reheat it. Just be sure to follow proper storage tips to keep it fresh! Cowboy Spaghetti: Hearty One-Pot Comfort for Any Night Cowboy Spaghetti is a smoky, hearty one-pot meal blending Southern BBQ and Italian flavors, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian, SouthernCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 pound Ground Beef Use 85/15 for best balance8 ounces Spaghetti Linguine or bucatini are thicker alternativesFor the Flavor Base6 ounces Bacon Cook until crispy1 medium Onion Diced2 cloves Garlic MincedFor the Sauce14.5 ounces Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Adds smoky note8 ounces Tomato Sauce Binds the ingredients1/4 cup BBQ Sauce Opt for hickory or mesquiteFor the Creaminess1 cup Cheddar Cheese ShreddedGarnish Options1 tablespoon Parsley Optional, chopped Equipment Large potLarge skillet Method Cooking InstructionsFill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt and 8 ounces of spaghetti. Cook until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 1 tablespoon of the fat in the skillet.In the skillet with bacon fat, add a diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.Stir in 14.5 ounces of fire-roasted tomatoes, 8 ounces of tomato sauce, and ¼ cup of BBQ sauce. Simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, adding pasta water as needed.Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Let sit for 1-2 minutes to absorb flavors.Stir in crispy bacon and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Garnish with parsley and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on low heat, adding water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
