Okay, friends, let me tell you about something truly special – my Cowboy Spaghetti. It’s the kind of dish that just screams comfort, the kind that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. If you love a hearty, satisfying pasta dish like lasagna but are looking for something way simpler to throw together, you’ve absolutely got to try this. It’s got all the cheesy, meaty goodness you crave, without all the fuss. Seriously, this is one of those meals that I can practically make in my sleep – and that’s saying something! It’s the perfect weeknight meal and my kids beg me to make it. It’s also perfect for feeding a crowd.
What is cowboy spaghetti?
Think of Cowboy Spaghetti as a deconstructed lasagna with a Tex-Mex twist! It’s essentially a hearty meat sauce, often made with GROUND BEEF and sausage, simmered with tomatoes, beans (because, well, cowboy!), and a blend of spices that give it that Southwestern flair. It’s layered with spaghetti and plenty of cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The beauty of it is that it’s so adaptable. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, add your favorite veggies, and even swap out the meats. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and it’s the perfect way to use up any leftover ingredients you have in the fridge. My grandma used to call it “poor man’s lasagna”, but trust me, the flavor is anything but poor!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million reasons to love this Cowboy Spaghetti recipe, but let me narrow it down to a few of my favorites. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of savory ground beef, spicy sausage, sweet tomatoes, and earthy beans creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. What I love most about this is how easy it is. Seriously, it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s way less labor-intensive than a traditional lasagna. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. The ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, and you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a large crowd. The best part? It’s versatile! You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a party appetizer. It reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prepping or packing lunches. I tested this once with ground turkey instead of beef, and you honestly couldn’t even tell the difference! It’s also really great with a dollop of Sour Cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. For those nights when I’m craving something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is an absolute lifesaver. If you are a fan of Mexican flavors, you will also love my taco casserole.
How do you make cowboy spaghetti?
Quick Overview
Making Cowboy Spaghetti is incredibly simple. First, you’ll brown your ground beef and sausage, then sauté some onions and garlic. Next, you’ll add your tomatoes, beans, spices, and a little bit of water or broth. Let it simmer for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together. While the sauce simmers, cook your spaghetti according to package directions. Then, simply layer the spaghetti, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The trick to getting the best flavor is to let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to really develop and deepen. Don’t skip this step! It’s what takes this dish from good to amazing.
Ingredients
What is the main sauce for?
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice) *1 ounce ham.
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained.
* 1 (15 ounce) can Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained.
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) * 1/2 teaspoon paprika (if desired)
* 1 cup water or beef broth
For Pasta & Cheese: What are some good recipes for this
* 1 pound spaghetti
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use a glass dish – it seems to bake more evenly. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you start layering. How does cheese melt?
Step 2: Brown the Meats
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. When the meat is browned, break it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This step is super important; nobody wants greasy spaghetti!
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. What is the best way to cook onion until softened, about 5 minutes. What is the aroma of a kitchen?
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, pinto beans, green bell pepper, and red onion. Stir well. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. What is the magic of tomatoes and beans?
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Add the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to incorporate the spices. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor will be! I usually let mine go for about 45 minutes – it’s the sweet spot.
Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Don’t overcook spaghetti! Drain and set aside. You want it al dente, so it holds its shape when you layer it in the baking dish.
Step 7: Layer It Up
In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. What is the best way to cook spaghetti, then add half of the meat sauce, and then serve. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese and half the Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Is the top of the ribs lightly browned? Keep an eye on it towards the end, so the cheese doesn’t burn!
Step 9: Cool & Serve
How do you slice a cowboy spaghetti? This allows the cheese to set up a bit, so it doesn’t slide off when you cut into it. What are some good side dishes to serve with a side of Garlic Bread?
What should I serve it with?
Cowboy Spaghetti is a complete meal in itself, but it’s always nice to have a few side dishes to round things out. For a casual family dinner, I love serving it with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing and some crusty garlic bread. It’s also amazing alongside some coleslaw. If you’re serving it for a potluck or party, consider adding some corn on the cob, baked beans, or a side of mac and cheese. For a more elegant presentation, you can garnish it with fresh parsley or cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek Yogurt. The possibilities are endless! I’ve even seen some people serve it with a side of cornbread, which is surprisingly good.
How do I make cowboy spaghetti?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making the best Cowboy Spaghetti. Here are some of my top tips:
Meat Ratio: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ratio of ground beef to sausage. I personally love using equal parts, but you can adjust it to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, use more ground beef and less sausage. For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage.
Spice Level: The taco seasoning and chili powder provide a good base for the spice level, but you can customize it further. If you like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer it mild, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
Bean Variety: Feel free to swap out the kidney beans and pinto beans for other types of beans. Black beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas would all work well. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Add extra vegetables to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. Diced carrots, celery, zucchini, or mushrooms would all be great additions. Just add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese would add a spicy kick, while mozzarella cheese would create a gooey, melty topping. You can also use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Noodle Options: If you don’t have spaghetti, no worries! Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Simmer Time: Don’t rush the simmering process! The longer the sauce simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. If you’re short on time, you can simmer it for just 30 minutes, but if you have the time, let it go for an hour or more. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Leftover Magic: Cowboy Spaghetti tastes even better the next day! The flavors have more time to meld together, making it even more delicious. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often make a big batch on Sunday and eat it for lunch throughout the week.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Cowboy Spaghetti tasting great, whether you’re saving leftovers or making it ahead:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving Cowboy Spaghetti at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible. If you are at a potluck, be sure to keep it warm in a slow cooker.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Cowboy Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before you put it in the fridge, or condensation can form and make it watery. It will still be safe to eat after 3 days, but the quality may start to decline.
Freezer Instructions: Cowboy Spaghetti freezes beautifully! To freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. If using a freezer bag, lay it flat to freeze, which will save space in your freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Reheating Methods:
* Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Cowboy Spaghetti in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
* Microwave: Place a portion of Cowboy Spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating.
* Stovetop: Place the Cowboy Spaghetti in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from sticking, and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Spaghetti is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a warm hug on a cold night, and a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Its ease, adaptability, and sheer deliciousness make it a winner in my book. And if you’re looking for even more easy and comforting pasta dishes, be sure to check out my baked ziti recipe or my creamy tomato pasta. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how your Cowboy Spaghetti turns out. Please leave a comment below and let me know how you liked it, and feel free to share any variations you tried. I love hearing from you all!
Cowboy Spaghetti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef 80/20 blend recommended
- 1 cup Kidney beans canned, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes canned, undrained
- 1 tsp Chili powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin
- 1 lb Spaghetti
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off excess fat.
- Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve spaghetti with the beef and bean mixture.
