Cooking method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Fry Bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, fry the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer it to a paper towel to drain, leaving the grease in the pan.
- Brown Meat: Add ground beef and diced onion to the bacon grease. Cook over medium-high heat until browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, hot sauce (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Mix Pasta & Sauce: Toss the drained spaghetti into the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Mix in half of the crispy bacon and half of the shredded cheese.
- Bake: Top with the remaining cheese and bacon. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cowboy Spaghetti can be served with a side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the dish’s richness. You might also consider garlic bread or corn on the cob for a complete meal. And don’t forget a refreshing beverage; sweet tea or a light beer pairs wonderfully with this heartwarming dish!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just make sure to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Beef Substitution: If you want to cut back on fat, opt for lean ground beef or turkey.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can also opt for pepper jack if you want to spice things up a bit.
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor without much effort.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can add black beans for extra protein or swap the spices for taco seasoning. If you’re in the mood for a fusion dish, consider adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to mix up the flavor profile.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Cowboy Spaghetti?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 35-40 minutes. In total, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
Is Cowboy Spaghetti kid-friendly?
Yes! The combination of pasta, cheese, and mild spices makes it appealing for kids, and they’ll love helping to sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
