Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the robust flavors of the Wild West with the comforting elements of Italian cuisine. This unique recipe features savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and a spicy tomato sauce, making it an ideal meal for those seeking a delicious, satisfying dinner. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or impressing guests, this Cowboy Spaghetti is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 ounce can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
- 10 ounce can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chiles)
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 – 2 teaspoons of hot sauce can be added for extra spice, if desired.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Shredded cheddar cheese, to serve
- Sliced green onion, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Chop the bacon into small pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Bacon
Begin by crisping chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches a crispy texture. Once done, transfer the bacon to a separate dish, retaining the flavorful bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook over medium heat, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce
Pour in the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, Rotel, and tomato sauce. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce if desired.
- Simmer
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce gently simmers, prepare the spaghetti following the instructions on the package. After cooking, drain the spaghetti thoroughly and keep it aside for later use.
- Combine and Serve
Add the cooked bacon back into the sauce. Then, toss the spaghetti with the sauce until the pasta is well-coated. Serve the Cowboy Spaghetti topped with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions.
Conclusion
Cowboy Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of bold, Western flavors and traditional Italian pasta. The combination of savory beef, crispy bacon, and spicy tomato sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion, bringing a touch of the Wild West to your dining table. Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and fresh green onions for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.