Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the smoky richness of bacon, the savory flavors of ground beef, and the tangy heat of sriracha in a deliciously satisfying pasta meal. This recipe is perfect for those who love a little kick with their dinner while still enjoying the traditional flavors of classic spaghetti. The combination of crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth creates a deeply flavorful sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh scallions, this dish takes comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an easy weeknight meal, Cowboy Spaghetti provides all the flavors and textures you’re craving—smoky, savory, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice. It’s a one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Smoky and Savory Flavor

The crispy bacon adds a smoky depth to the dish, while the combination of beef, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce creates a rich, savory sauce.

2. Perfectly Balanced Heat

The sriracha hot sauce adds a nice kick without overwhelming the dish, offering just the right amount of heat for those who enjoy a little spice.

3. Cheesy and Creamy

Topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, this dish becomes a comforting, cheesy treat that will satisfy any cheese lover.

4. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep and cook time, Cowboy Spaghetti is a great option for busy nights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

5. One-Pot Wonder

This recipe is easy to clean up after, as everything cooks in one pot, making it a convenient option for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Dry spaghetti
Extra-virgin olive oil
Thick bacon, diced
Lean ground beef
Medium onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper
Sriracha hot sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Low-sodium beef broth
Crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Scallions, diced

Variations

Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of sriracha hot sauce or add diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra burst of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or omit the meat entirely and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Different Cheese: Instead of sharp cheddar, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile or to add more heat.
Add Beans: Add a can of black beans or kidney beans for extra texture and protein.
Mushroom Cowboy Spaghetti: Incorporate sliced mushrooms into the beef mixture for an added earthy flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Be sure to reserve a little pasta water (about 1/4 cup) for later if needed to adjust the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon fat. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking up the beef as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Sauces and Broth

Stir in the sriracha hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine with Spaghetti

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure each strand is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Add Bacon and Cheese

Stir in the crispy bacon and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Cowboy Spaghetti to serving plates and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Garnish with diced scallions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use High-Quality Bacon: The flavor of the bacon really shines through in this dish, so use thick-cut, high-quality bacon for the best result.
Reserve Pasta Water: A little pasta water can be helpful in adjusting the consistency of the sauce. Add a small amount if the sauce is too thick and needs to be thinned out.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the sriracha to 1 teaspoon, or omit it entirely. For a spicier kick, increase the sriracha or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce after you combine it with the meat mixture.
Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: While canned fire-roasted tomatoes work great, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer, just be sure to cook them down long enough to create a thick sauce.

How to Serve

Cowboy Spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with side dishes like:

Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans make a great side to complement the savory flavors of the spaghetti.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cowboy Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Freezing

You can freeze Cowboy Spaghetti for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat the spaghetti on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to help loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef. For a vegetarian version, you can use plant-based ground meat or beans.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of sriracha hot sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and combine them.

5. Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut bacon?

Yes, regular bacon works fine. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may cook faster than thick-cut bacon.

6. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make Cowboy Spaghetti gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

7. Can I make this recipe without sriracha?

Yes, if you prefer a milder dish, you can leave out the sriracha or substitute it with a small amount of hot sauce or chili flakes for a different kind of heat.

8. What can I serve with Cowboy Spaghetti?

Cowboy Spaghetti is hearty on its own, but a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread are great accompaniments.

9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to cook them down sufficiently to form a thick sauce.

10. How can I make this dish less fatty?

For a lighter version, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and lean ground turkey instead of beef.

Conclusion

Cowboy Spaghetti is the perfect blend of rich, savory flavors with a touch of spice, making it a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky bacon, tender ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish offers both comfort and flavor in every bite. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a plate of this deliciously hearty Cowboy Spaghetti!