One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti: A Cozy, No-Fuss One-Pot Dinner

The Night I Brought Prairie Comfort to the Table

I was walking in the door, stomach growling, and the sink already looked like a small obstacle course of dishes. Then I remembered this One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti idea—brown beef, savory sausage, peppers, and a kiss of smoky spice, all simmering in one sturdy pot. The first whiff of garlic meeting tomato and cheese had me sold, and cleanup suddenly felt like a tiny win rather than a chore.

This recipe is a hug in a pot: hearty, flexible, and incredibly forgiving. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting that Pinterest-worthy without the stress. Grab a glass of water, a big spoon, and meet me at the stove for a family-friendly skillet that tastes like a cozy weekend, even on a Tuesday.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil — used to brown the meat and sauté the aromatics without sticking.
• 1 medium onion, diced — adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced — fragrant and sharp; add toward the end of sauté to prevent bitterness.
• 1 pound ground beef — the hearty base that gives that cowboy flavor.
• 8 ounces spicy Italian sausage, casings removed — brings heat and richness; swap with mild if you prefer less spice.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced — adds color and a light sweetness.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices — provides moisture and a bright tang.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste — deepens flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth — keeps the sauce saucy while cooking the pasta.
• 2 cups water — additional liquid to ensure the pasta cooks to al dente.
• 12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half — fits nicely in the pot and stirs evenly.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika — a smoky note that nods to the cowboy vibe.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder — a gentle kick that complements the sausage.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano — bright, herbaceous warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme — earthy balance with the meat and peppers.
• Salt and pepper to taste — season as you go for best flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese — melts into the sauce for a creamy finish.
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions — fresh color and a light, fresh bite.

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and red pepper, cooking 3–4 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Add the garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Push the veggies to the side, then add the ground beef and sausage. Cook, breaking the meat into crumbles, until browned and no pink remains. If the pot seems fatty, spoon off excess fat.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and the spices (smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, thyme). Cook for 1 minute to bloom the flavors, then mix with the meat and veggies.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
5. Break the spaghetti in half and nestle it into the simmering liquid. Cook 9–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. If it looks a little dry, splash in a bit more broth or water.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you like, finish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

Brown-bag comfort with a bright finish. Here are a few easy ways to round out the meal:

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm cornbread for perfect scoops.
• Pair with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Steam or roast a quick batch of broccoli or green beans for added texture and color.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheese for extra creaminess if you like.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Cowboy Spaghetti is the kind of dinner you’ll reach for on a busy night and crave again on a lazy weekend. It’s hearty, flexible, and easy to customize—swap in ground turkey, add extra veggies, or dial up the spice to fit your crew. Clean up is a breeze, there’s minimal washing, and you still get a big, comforting, saucy plate that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Print this, pin it, or tuck it into your weekly meal plan—the way the flavors marry in one pot is proof that simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients can deliver maximum comfort with minimal effort.