Barbecue Spaghetto Recipe
Looking for a fun twist on classic pasta night? This Barbecue Spaghetto combines the smoky-sweet flavors of barbecue sauce with hearty ground beef, tender spaghetti, and a cheesy finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of American barbecue and Italian comfort food in one skillet. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the barbecue sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash more broth or water.
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & FAQ
- Can I use a different protein? Absolutely! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
- What barbecue sauce works best? Use your favorite—smoky, sweet, or spicy. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Make it ahead: This dish reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Love this recipe? Check out our other barbecue recipes and Italian-inspired dishes!
