Cowboy Spaghetti is a robust and flavorful dish that blends the heartiness of traditional spaghetti with the bold, rustic elements of cowboy cuisine. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner, this recipe combines the Savory Spaghetti Recipes best of both worlds in a single pot. Whether you’re cooking for a group of friends after a long day on the ranch or just looking to try something new, Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef: Use high-quality beef for the best flavor.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage: Adds extra flavor and richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Fire-roasted for a smoky flavor.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti: Regular or whole wheat, cooked according to package instructions.
Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For a savory finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped, for a fresh touch.
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Break up the meat with a spoon and drain any excess fat. Transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Sauce Ingredients
Return the browned meat to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors will meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened and the spaghetti is cooked, add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat. Let it simmer together for a few minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the flavors.
7. Garnish and Enjoy
Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a combination of mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. It also makes great leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Cowboy Spaghetti is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings the hearty flavors of the American West to your table. With its rich meat sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or sharing it with friends, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting, homestyle meal.
