Cowboy Butter Spaghetti Recipe

Name: Cowboy Butter Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 160 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter, softened; 2 tablespoon brown or grainy mustard; 2 tablespoon chopped parsley; 4 teaspoons fresh thyme; 2 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste; Pinch red chili flakes, or to taste; 1 pound spaghetti; 1 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/8 teaspoon garlic salt; Pinch red pepper flakes or to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup salted butter, softened
2 tablespoons brown or grainy mustard
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
4 teaspoons fresh thyme
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 pinch red chili flakes, or to taste
1 pound spaghetti
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/8 teaspoon garlic salt
1 pinch red pepper flakes, or to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Start by gathering all of your ingredients, ensuring everything is measured and ready to go.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown mustard, chopped parsley, thyme, lemon juice, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red chili flakes. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Once mixed, scrape the butter mixture to the center of the bowl, forming a mound. You can use the butter immediately, but for the best flavor, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, typically around 12 minutes, until it's tender but still al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Drain the spaghetti, and set it aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the prepared mustard butter mixture over medium-low heat. Add the heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. Heat the sauce until it's steaming, around 5 minutes.
Stir the cooked spaghetti into the sauce. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Season with additional salt to taste, ensuring the dish is well-balanced. Serve the spaghetti in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	343
Total Fat	28g (36% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	18g (88% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	81mg (27% Daily Value)
Sodium	252mg (11% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	19g (7% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	5g (9% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	3mg (3% Daily Value)
Calcium	46mg (4% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (6% Daily Value)
Potassium	124mg (3% Daily Value)

Cowboy Butter Spaghetti Recipe

The Story Behind Cowboy Butter Spaghetti

Cowboy Butter Spaghetti is a modern American twist on classic pasta dishes, blending rich, creamy butter with bold spices to create a hearty and flavorful meal. The origins of this dish trace back to Southern and Western United States home kitchens, where inventive cooks sought ways to combine the comforting texture of buttered noodles with the zesty punch of smoked paprika, cayenne, and fresh herbs. Its name, Cowboy Butter, evokes the rugged simplicity and robust flavors often associated with frontier cooking, where butter, spices, and locally available ingredients were staples for cowboys and ranchers seeking quick, filling meals after a long day on the range.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is particularly popular in Southern and Southwestern states. Each region adds its own nuance: in Texas and New Mexico, spicier variations with chili flakes and cayenne are common, reflecting the local love for heat and bold flavors. In contrast, Southern versions may lean more on the buttery and herbal notes, incorporating thyme, parsley, and sometimes a hint of mustard to create depth without overwhelming the palate. Despite these variations, the heart of the dish remains creamy spaghetti coated in a rich, seasoned butter sauce.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional Italian pasta dishes such as Fettuccine Alfredo or Cacio e Pepe, Cowboy Butter Spaghetti emphasizes a balance of heat and herbaceousness rather than relying solely on cheese or cream. While Alfredo is primarily a creamy, cheesy sauce, Cowboy Butter uses compound butter as its foundation, enhanced with mustard, paprika, cayenne, and fresh herbs. This gives the dish a layered, smoky, and slightly spicy profile, making it stand apart from other butter-based pastas. Its versatility also allows additions like chicken, shrimp, or sauted vegetables without losing its signature flavor.

Where Its Typically Served

Cowboy Butter Spaghetti is commonly enjoyed as a main course at casual family dinners, potlucks, and weekend gatherings. It pairs exceptionally well with rustic sides such as garlic bread, green salads, or roasted vegetables. Some restaurants in the Southwestern U.S. have even incorporated it into seasonal menus, highlighting the fusion of traditional comfort food with contemporary spice blends. Its ease of preparation and rich flavor make it a favorite for both home cooks and chefs looking to add a hearty, flavorful pasta to their repertoire.

Interesting Facts

The use of compound butter as a base allows the flavors to meld over time, enhancing the taste and aroma.
Despite its American roots, the dish draws inspiration from European buttered pasta traditions while adding a distinctly bold, cowboy-inspired twist.
Cowboy Butter Spaghetti can be customized easilyspices can be dialed up or down, and proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or scallops can be added to create a complete meal.
The combination of butter, mustard, and smoked paprika not only provides a unique flavor but also creates a creamy emulsion that clings beautifully to spaghetti, giving the sauce its signature velvety texture.
It has become a popular choice for meal prep enthusiasts because it reheats well while retaining its richness and depth of flavor.

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FAQ about Cowboy Butter Spaghetti Recipe

Yes, you can make the cowboy butter ahead of time. For best results, prepare the butter mixture and refrigerate it for 2 hours or up to overnight to allow the flavors to meld. The pasta itself can also be cooked and stored, but it's best to combine everything just before serving.

Store any leftover Cowboy Butter Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce's creamy texture.

While it's not recommended to freeze the spaghetti after it's been mixed with the butter sauce (as the texture might change), you can freeze the cowboy butter mixture separately. Just thaw and reheat the butter sauce before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.

Yes, feel free to customize the recipe. You can swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. You can also adjust or omit spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes depending on your heat preference.

Cowboy Butter Spaghetti pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or scallops. Garlic bread or crusty bread is also a great addition to mop up the delicious sauce.

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sausage to make it a more substantial meal. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try adding roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starchy water will help the sauce coat the pasta more evenly and create a smoother texture.

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. While spaghetti is traditional, you could also try linguine, fettuccine, or penne for a slight variation.

The spice level depends on how much cayenne pepper and red chili flakes you use. You can adjust or omit these ingredients to suit your taste. For a milder version, reduce the amount of spices or skip them altogether.

Yes, this dish can be prepped ahead of time. You can prepare the cowboy butter mixture and cook the spaghetti in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and pasta, then toss together for a quick and easy meal.

Comments

Charles Hall

09/24/2024 09:19:57 AM

This dish was simple to make and quite delicious. I skipped the red pepper flakes and chili flakes, and instead, I added sun-dried tomatoes for some added color. I'm now wondering what would be a good side dish to serve with this meal?

Thomas Jones

11/26/2022 08:56:27 AM

I forgot to chill the butter before cooking. Instead, I melted it in the pan along with the first set of spices, then sautéed onion, zucchini, and chicken sausage. Finally, I added cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach at the end. The dish turned out delicious, with a wonderful blend of flavors.

Timothy Rodriguez

10/18/2023 02:25:39 PM

I absolutely adore this recipe! I tried it for a second time and decided to add sautéed baby Bella mushrooms. I cooked them to a "mid-rare" level and then mixed them into the sauce while it simmered, and they just blended in perfectly! I opted for linguine pasta (mostly because it was all I had on hand the first time) and the way it paired with the sauce was just divine. This dish is a favorite in my household, and I appreciate how simple it is to prepare in advance with minimal effort required to assemble. This recipe is definitely a keeper!

Cynthia Gomez

04/30/2024 10:22:55 PM

I enhanced this dish by adding some garlic sautéed shrimp to make it a complete meal. The flavors are absolutely amazing.

Robert Martin

03/15/2024 09:13:39 AM

I followed the recipe exactly as written. I will definitely make it again, and next time I plan to add chicken for extra protein.

Kimberly Ramirez

02/07/2024 05:31:59 PM

I had some leftover baked chicken thighs, so I shredded the chicken into bite-sized pieces and added them to a creamy sauce.

Eric Martinez

09/10/2023 11:19:48 PM

I substituted Greek yogurt for heavy cream and omitted the red pepper and chili flakes.

Deborah Jackson

02/09/2025 04:12:36 AM

This dish was amazing! We skipped the "hot" spice and pepper due to digestive issues, but it was still incredibly tasty. It has earned a spot in our regular meal rotation. Thank you!

Melissa Anderson

02/14/2024 05:53:04 AM

Incorporated freshly harvested Florida bay scallops.

George Jones

08/22/2024 08:35:23 AM

For those of us who prioritize protein in our diets, Protein Noodles are the perfect choice. Pair them with meat for a high-protein meal that will satisfy your nutritional needs.

Christopher Green

11/22/2022 10:48:01 AM

Spaghetti is a simple and comforting meal option. Pair it with some garlic bread and you'll have some delighted diners.

Sharon Hall

12/14/2024 01:25:39 PM

First attempt at preparing this dish and it was a hit with everyone. The flavor is decadent without being overwhelming, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences. It's creamy without being too heavy and pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Jose Turner

10/02/2023 12:33:58 PM

Excellent recipe! I followed it exactly as written. I wanted to address a comment made by someone who melted the butter in the pan to sauté the onions. It's important to use chilled butter to create an emulsion, resulting in a creamy, velvety sauce. A great example of this technique is seen in Carbonara pasta, where the fat and liquid molecules come together to form a cohesive sauce. If the sauce is overcooked, it can separate and become gloopy. By melting the butter beforehand, you essentially break the sauce before it even begins, making it difficult to salvage.

Virginia Harris

05/30/2025 01:30:00 PM

This recipe sounds delicious, but I will be skipping the red ingredients and most of the spices, except for the smoked paprika - I love it so much I would use it instead of salt if it were more affordable. The core recipe is fantastic and serves as a great foundation for customization.

Carolyn Green

03/05/2024 02:08:31 AM

This dish looks fantastic! Enjoy it by itself with a side of mixed green salad. For extra protein, consider adding some sautéed shrimp or chicken.

James Collins

03/19/2024 05:01:52 AM

This dish is truly delicious just the way it is. I don't understand why some people feel the need to alter the recipe right from the start. I think it's best to follow the recipe as it is originally intended before getting creative with variations. Why deviate from a good thing?

Frank Parker

02/06/2023 08:20:50 AM

Being a fan of spaghetti but unable to consume tomato products or spicy food, this recipe seems like a great fit for me with a few tweaks. It gives me vibes of a white chicken spaghetti that I adore. I might need to adjust the seasoning and give it a try this week. As for what to serve with it, I suggest steamed broccoli or asparagus, along with a side garden salad and some garlic bread or rolls. Looking forward to trying it out and will share an update along with a photo soon! 🍝🥦🥗🥖😊

Emily Lopez

04/15/2024 09:32:15 AM

Enjoy with garlic bread and a refreshing glass of lemonade!

Brenda Evans

05/20/2024 05:30:04 AM

I absolutely adore this dish and I am eagerly looking forward to sharing it with my entire family because it is so delicious.

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Cowboy Butter Spaghetti Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts

The Story Behind Cowboy Butter Spaghetti

Regional Characteristics

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Where Its Typically Served

Interesting Facts

FAQ about Cowboy Butter Spaghetti Recipe