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Cowboy Spaghetti

A quick and hearty one-pan pasta dish combining ground beef and spicy sausage, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Meats
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for flavor) Use leaner if you prefer less fat
  • 1 pound spicy sausage Bulk Italian or chorizo-style adds heat; swap with sweet sausage for milder flavor
Vegetables
  • 1 bell pepper diced Any color
  • 1 onion chopped Yellow or sweet onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Pasta
  • 12 ounces spaghetti Regular or whole-wheat
Sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade
Seasoning
Serving
  • Grated to taste Parmesan cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and spicy sausage. Break the meat up and brown until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes.
  2. Drain excess fat if desired, leaving a tablespoon for flavor.
  3. Add the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld.
  2. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. Drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
  5. Heat together for 1-2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the sauce.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Use ground turkey or a plant-based sausage for a lighter version.