Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together bold flavors with an easy-to-make recipe. This comforting meal is packed with savory ground beef, zesty tomato sauce, and Italian herbs, all served over perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish combines classic Italian pasta with a southern twist, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional for a bit of spice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 lb spaghetti noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the tomatoes and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the oregano, basil, chili powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Combine the spaghetti and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Let the spaghetti absorb some of the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional). Enjoy!
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicier: If you prefer more heat, increase the chili powder or red pepper flakes, or even add a chopped jalapeño during cooking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Cowboy spaghetti, comfort food, pasta recipe, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly,