One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti (Hearty, Cheesy & Loaded with Flavor)

If you’re craving comfort food with minimal cleanup, One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti delivers everything you want in a hearty, satisfying meal. Packed with savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, tender spaghetti, and gooey cheese, this dish is the ultimate weeknight dinner for busy households or casual gatherings.

The beauty of this recipe is that it combines all elements in a single pot, allowing flavors to meld naturally while reducing cleanup. The vegetables add freshness and color, while the beef and spices provide depth. Simmering spaghetti directly in the sauce ensures that each strand absorbs flavor, creating a rich and cohesive dish that tastes like it simmered for hours.

Cheese is key to the “loaded” factor in this cowboy-inspired pasta. Shredded cheddar melts into the spaghetti, adding creaminess, flavor, and that irresistible pull that makes this dish memorable. The balance of savory, sweet, and mildly smoky flavors ensures the recipe satisfies both adults and kids alike.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a potluck, or a cozy weekend dinner, One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti is comfort food at its finest.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 8 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Break uncooked spaghetti in half and add to the pot. Press down so noodles are mostly submerged.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until spaghetti is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 12–15 minutes).
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the spaghetti, cover, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
7. Stir gently to combine cheese with pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

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Why This Recipe Works

One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti works because of layered flavors and convenience. Browning the beef first develops savory depth, while the vegetables add freshness. Simmering pasta directly in the sauce ensures the noodles soak up flavor rather than remaining bland. Cheese melts throughout for a cohesive, creamy texture that elevates the dish.

It’s also versatile—add corn, black beans, or jalapeños for extra heartiness and kick. You can swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Cowboy Spaghetti

• Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking.
• Use a lid partially covering the pot to control moisture while simmering.
• Adjust liquid quantities if using a different type of pasta.
• Allow cheese to melt fully for optimal creamy texture.

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Variations and Add-Ons

• Southwest Cowboy: Add black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime.
• Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian: Substitute plant-based meat or extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella with cheddar for a gooey finish.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up sauce.
• Pair with a simple green salad for freshness.
• Top with sliced avocado for a creamy, southwestern twist.
• A light drizzle of hot sauce adds extra heat for spice lovers.

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Cultural and Comfort Food Appeal

Cowboy spaghetti is a modern take on American comfort food, inspired by hearty meals that need minimal prep and maximum flavor. It embodies the classic “one pot” philosophy of combining protein, pasta, vegetables, and sauce for easy, filling, and family-friendly meals. Its bold flavors and cheesy richness make it a staple for casual dinners and potluck gatherings.

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Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen sauce.
• This dish freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Final Thoughts

One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal—hearty, cheesy, full of flavor, and simple to prepare. It combines tender pasta, savory beef, crisp vegetables, and melted cheese in one pot, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste.

This recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated, and it’s perfect for busy families, cozy nights, or casual entertaining.