Cowboy Spaghetti

Here at 12 Tomatoes, we’ve explored a variety of “cowboy” dishes—Cowboy Salad, Cowboy Soup, Cowboy Caviar, Cowboy Chicken, and Cowboy Casserole. The essence of these recipes lies in their hearty, filling nature, often featuring meats, beans, and bold flavors. So naturally, we couldn’t resist the idea of Cowboy Spaghetti. This dish combines the classic elements of cowboy-style cooking with pasta, resulting in a robust, spicy, and cheesy delight that might just be our best cowboy creation yet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The blend of smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and spicy accents creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Deep skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Grater

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• Salt
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 3 slices smoky bacon, chopped
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce (eyeball it)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (eyeball it)
• 1/2 cup beer
• 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes (14 ounces), chopped or crushed
• 1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 scallions, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a pot of water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and salt the water. Cook until al dente.

2. In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and bacon. Cook the bacon until brown and crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain excess fat, leaving enough to coat the skillet.

3. Add the ground sirloin to the skillet and crumble it as it browns, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Stir in the onion and garlic with the meat. Season with salt, pepper, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

5. Pour in 1/2 cup of beer to deglaze the pan. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, then add the tomatoes and tomato sauce.

6. Combine the hot spaghetti with the meat sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.

7. Serve in shallow bowls. Grate cheese over the top and sprinkle with scallions. Garnish with crisp bacon.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, choose a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese and freshly grind your black pepper. Adjust the hot sauce to your personal spice preference, and don’t skip the deglazing step with beer—it adds a rich depth to the sauce.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. For a veggie-packed version, add bell peppers or zucchini. If you’re avoiding alcohol, replace the beer with beef broth.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 520, Protein: 30g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 55g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

What’s a good side dish for Cowboy Spaghetti?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

We invite you to try Cowboy Spaghetti and savor the delightful blend of flavors that defines this dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you bring to the table!