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This Cowboy Spaghetti is my family’s answer to comfort food on busy weeknights Packed with smoky bacon chili beans fire roasted tomatoes and a hint of spice it lands somewhere between a classic pasta dinner and your favorite chili Nothing clears a table faster in our house
My kids always ask for seconds especially when extra cheddar is sprinkled on top This dish first came to the rescue during a chilly camping trip and we’ve been hooked ever since
Ingredients
- Chopped bacon: Adds that vital smoky backbone Opt for thick cut and look for good marbling
- Yellow onion: Diced for a sweet undertone Choose firm onions with papery skins
- Garlic cloves: Minced Fresh garlic always gives more punch than pre minced
- Ground beef: Hearty protein Pick 80 20 for balanced flavor and juiciness
- Diced fire roasted tomatoes: Lend depth and light char Choose canned fire roasted for extra flavor
- Chili beans in sauce: Brings a gentle heat and body to the sauce Look for beans with rich sauce
- Tomato sauce: Binds the mixture into a silky coat Go for a no sugar added version if you like things less sweet
- Beef broth: Boosts savory notes Use low sodium if watching salt
- Spaghetti: Classic base Go for al dente for the best texture
- Grated cheddar cheese: Creamy and sharp for serving Freshly shredded melts best
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Layers of flavor Make sure your spices are fresh not faded
- Chili powder Oregano Seasoning salt Cumin: Robust southwestern notes Pick high quality for fuller taste
- Sugar: Just a pinch to balance acidity A little goes a long way
Step by Step Instructions
- Boil the Spaghetti:
- Cook your spaghetti in a large pot of heavily salted water Stir occasionally and test for al dente texture after about ten minutes The pasta should be firm to the bite so it does not turn mushy in the sauce
- Crisp the Bacon:
- Add chopped bacon to a large pan Set over medium heat Cook stirring occasionally until it is deep golden and very crisp about eight minutes Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon to a plate lined with paper towel Leave just about one tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add diced onion to the bacon fat Lower the heat to medium Cook slowly stirring until the onion is translucent and starts to caramelize which can take up to five minutes Toss in the minced garlic and cook about one more minute when it turns fragrant
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef to the onion garlic in the pan Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains and the meat starts to brown on the edges about eight minutes Drain off any excess grease if it looks watery
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the diced fire roasted tomatoes chili beans with sauce tomato sauce beef broth and all the measured seasonings Stir very well and bring to a gentle simmer Cover and let the sauce bubble for about five minutes to marry the flavors
- Combine with Pasta:
- Turn the heat off Add the cooked drained spaghetti and half of the bacon Stir deeply until every strand is coated and the bacon is mixed in
- Serve and Finish:
- Plate the spaghetti piping hot Top each serving with the rest of the crispy bacon and a generous handful of grated cheddar cheese Watch it melt into all the nooks and enjoy
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My favorite part of this dish is the bacon which perfumes the entire kitchen and brings everyone to the stove My brother and I used to compete for the crispy pieces as kids and now I double the bacon to keep everyone happy
Best Ways To Store Cowboy Spaghetti
Cool leftovers quickly and divide into airtight containers
Refrigerate for three days or freeze up to two months
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the sauce
Swapping Up Ingredients
Try smoked sausage instead of ground beef for variety
Pinto or black beans can replace chili beans just add extra spices
Add roasted corn for extra sweetness and heartiness
How To Serve Cowboy Spaghetti
Great with a fresh salad and cornbread for a true cowboy feel
Top with diced green onions or chopped cilantro for brightness
Serve in a big cast iron pan at the table for a rustic touch
The Dish’s Roots
Cowboy Spaghetti combines Italian pasta with American chili flavors
It is inspired by cowboy campfire meals hearty filling and built on what you have on hand
My family’s version amps up the campfire feel with smoky ingredients and bold seasonings
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this spaghetti smoky?
The smoky flavor comes from crisped bacon and fire-roasted tomatoes simmered together, infusing the sauce with depth.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can substitute with other sturdy pasta such as penne or rigatoni. Just cook to al dente for best results.
- → Is cheddar cheese required?
Cheddar cheese is optional, but it adds a creamy richness. You can also use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend to taste.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Cowboy spaghetti can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → How can I make this spicier?
Add extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeños to boost the heat to your preference.