If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the best of Texas-style flavors and family-friendly pasta, then you have to try this Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe. Picture a bubbling casserole layered with tender spaghetti, savory ground beef seasoned with chili spices, sweet corn, peas, and topped with crispy French fried onions and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a one-dish wonder that fills the kitchen with amazing aromas and guarantees smiles at the dinner table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s adding zest, texture, or vibrant color. They’re simple, pantry-friendly staples that come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that soaks up all the delicious sauce and flavors.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory backbone to this casserole.
- 1 (1.75-oz) packet chili seasoning: Adds a touch of smoky spice that makes this dish unmistakably cowboy-inspired.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes & green chiles: Infuses the dish with a subtle heat and tangy freshness.
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings a deep, umami richness that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: A classic tomato base that ties everything together.
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen corn, thawed: Sweet bursts of color and texture that balance the savory elements.
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen green peas, thawed: Adds a pop of green and a mild sweetness to the mix.
- 1 (3-oz) package French fried onions: For that irresistible crunchy topping that makes every bite special.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, flavorful blanket that’s simply mouthwatering.
How to Make Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF, ensuring it’s hot and ready to go when your casserole is assembled. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—just tender enough to hold up under the sauce without turning mushy. Drain it well to avoid excess water diluting the casserole.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook your ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing the rich, meaty flavor that is the heart of this dish. Drain off any excess fat to keep the bake from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Combine the Flavorful Fillings
In a large bowl, toss together the browned beef, chili seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chiles, Worcestershire sauce, spaghetti sauce, thawed corn, and peas. Stir in the cooked spaghetti until every strand is coated with the vibrant, zesty sauce mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the French fried onions on top for a golden crunch, then cover it all with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese that will melt into a gooey blanket while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes in your preheated oven. The cheese will bubble and brown lightly, and the French fried onions will turn a delightful golden crisp, signaling that your Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe is ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the experience, top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions. These garnishes add a fresh pop of color and a mild brightness that complements the hearty flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bake is a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some soft, buttery dinner rolls to scoop up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins and sprinkle the French fried onions just before serving to maintain their crunch. This presentation makes it perfect for serving at casual dinners or potlucks where everyone can enjoy their own cozy casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making for an even tastier second meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, this Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 20 minutes, to restore that crispy topping. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps the bake tasting fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic in this recipe, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you love. Just adjust cooking times accordingly if needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The chili seasoning and veggies still pack plenty of flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Add extra green chiles, a dash of hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes in step 4 to kick up the heat to your liking.
What can I use instead of French fried onions?
Crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried shallots make great alternatives, providing a different but equally satisfying crunch on top.
How do I know when the bake is done?
The cheese should be melted and bubbly with golden brown spots, and the edges should be hot and sizzling after 40 to 50 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines ease, flavor, and nostalgia in one irresistible casserole. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish offers that perfect cozy dinner vibe with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a new favorite in your rotation!
Print
Cowboy Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cowboy Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful baked pasta dish that combines ground beef, chili seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chiles, a mix of frozen corn and peas, all tossed with spaghetti and topped with crispy French fried onions and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this comforting casserole brings a southwestern twist to classic spaghetti.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Meat
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (1.75-oz) packet chili seasoning
Vegetables and Sauces
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes & green chiles
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen corn, thawed
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen green peas, thawed
Toppings
- 1 (3-oz) package French fried onions
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti following the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off the excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, chili seasoning packet, diced tomatoes with green chiles, Worcestershire sauce, spaghetti sauce, thawed corn, and thawed peas. Add the cooked spaghetti and stir everything together until well blended.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the French fried onions on top, then cover with the shredded cheddar cheese to create a crispy, cheesy topping.
- Bake: Bake the assembled casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the fat from the cooked beef to reduce greasiness in the casserole.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese blend for variation.
- For a spicier dish, add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To save time, use pre-cooked or leftover spaghetti and cooked beef if available.
