There’s something enchanting about the rich, savory aroma of Cincinnati Chili wafting through the kitchen as it simmers away. This delightful twist on traditional chili is a comforting embrace on a chilly evening, combining unexpected spices like cinnamon and cloves with the hearty deliciousness of ground beef, all served over a fluffy bed of spaghetti.
Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the idea of going out for fast food makes your heart sink. Instead, you can whip up this unique dish that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t require hours of fussing in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create an inviting meal that will make you feel right at home, topped with a generous helping of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, Cincinnati Chili is sure to become a family favorite—one bowl will never be enough!
Why is Cincinnati Chili a must-try?
Unique Flavor Profile: This dish blends spices like cinnamon and cloves, making every bite a savory surprise.
Quick & Easy: In under two hours, you can serve a delicious homemade meal that feels gourmet without the hassle.
Comforting Delight: Perfect for cozy nights in, it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul.
Versatile Servings: Whether topped on spaghetti or served as chili dogs, this recipe adapts to your cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings, it promises to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
For a full experience, don’t forget to add fresh toppings like jalapeños or crushed red pepper for extra flair!
Cincinnati Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
- Ground Beef – The foundation of the chili; lean beef is a healthier option that still delivers great taste.
- Onion – Provides essential sweetness; swap for shallots for a more delicate flavor.
- Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Chili Powder – The primary spice that sets the heat; adjust as needed to suit your palate.
- Ground Cinnamon – A signature spice in Cincinnati Chili that adds warmth; best not to substitute for authenticity.
- Ground Cumin – Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
- Ground Allspice – Introduces a hint of sweetness and complexity to the flavor.
- Ground Cloves – Just a dash enhances the overall taste; you can adjust to your preference.
- Bay Leaf – Adds aromatic richness; remember to remove it before serving!
- Tomato Sauce – Gives the chili a rich, saucy consistency; crushed tomatoes are a fine substitute.
- Beef Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; low-sodium versions offer a healthier choice.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Provides a burst of umami and tang.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the dish; red wine vinegar can be used instead if needed.
- Sugar – Helps balance acidity in the sauce; adjust to taste if desired.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; customize for your taste.
For Serving
- Cooked Spaghetti – Serves as the cozy base for your chili; swap for other pasta shapes for a fun twist.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds a creamy texture and a luxurious finish when melted over the chili.
- Chopped Onions – Use as a fresh garnish; green onions can also add a light, crisp flavor.
Experience the incredible satisfaction of serving Cincinnati Chili to your loved ones—it’s a cozy dish that’s truly unforgettable!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
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Cook the Beef: In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat to keep it lean and delicious.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions turn translucent, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Toast the Spices: Stir in chili powder, ground cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, and the bay leaf. Toast these spices for 1-2 minutes, until they become fragrant and tantalizing.
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Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Mix in tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Simmer Low and Slow: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom, resulting in a smooth, savory sauce.
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Final Touches: Once simmering is complete, remove the bay leaf and taste the chili. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if desired, ensuring it’s just right for serving.
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Serve Over Spaghetti: Spoon the chili generously over cooked spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onions for that authentic Cincinnati experience.
Optional: Add some jalapeños or crushed red pepper for an extra spicy kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Cincinnati Chili is perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights stress-free! You can prepare the chili base up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while it’s refrigerated. Simply cook the chili as per the recipe, cool it completely, and then transfer it to an airtight container. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it! The cooked spaghetti can also be boiled up to 24 hours ahead; just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Serve everything together with freshly shredded cheddar and chopped onions just before serving for a delicious experience without the fuss!
What to Serve with Cincinnati Chili?
Imagine the delight and comfort of a satisfying meal as you gather around the table with loved ones, bringing warmth and happiness to your evening.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of Cincinnati Chili sauce.
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Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the chili, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the spicy, savory chili, making every bite truly satisfying. Pairing it with a dollop of butter adds to the comfort factor!
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Garden Salad: A light and vibrant garden salad with mixed greens and your favorite fresh veggies brings a refreshing crispness to the table, cutting through the rich flavors of the dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add an earthy, smoky flavor that complements the chili while contributing to a well-rounded meal.
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Apple Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple pie—a classic way to satisfy that sweet tooth after a hearty chili dinner.
Expert Tips for Cincinnati Chili
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Simmer for Depth: Allow the chili to simmer longer to develop rich, complex flavors that deepen with time.
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Skim the Fat: Periodically skim off any fat from the surface during simmering for a cleaner, more refined taste.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning; it’s the simplest way to ensure your Cincinnati Chili is perfectly flavored.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Be mindful of the chili powder—adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level to cater to everyone’s tastes.
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Don’t Forget the Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf right before serving; it can leave a bitter taste if left in too long.
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Creative Serving Suggestions: Try serving Cincinnati Chili over fries or baked potatoes for a delightful twist that’s sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Cincinnati Chili
Fridge: Store Cincinnati Chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze Cincinnati Chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy meal prep and convenient thawing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy the comforting taste once again!
Cincinnati Chili Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment and personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute shredded vegan cheese for cheddar and use olive oil instead of butter for a creamy finish.
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Vegetarian: Swap ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a hearty, meat-free version that still packs a flavorful punch.
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Spice-It-Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to crank up the heat and provide an extra zing to every bite.
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Over Rice: For a different twist, serve the Cincinnati Chili over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting bowl that’s equally satisfying.
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Classic 5-Way: Layer on kidney beans, diced onions, grated cheese, and diced tomatoes for a traditional Cincinnati 5-way dish that’s rich in flavors and textures.
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Sweet Addition: Introduce a tablespoon of dark chocolate or cocoa powder to deepen the flavor profile and create a unique, slightly sweet aftertaste.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a delightful smokiness that elevates the overall taste of the chili.
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Fresh Toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocados, or a dollop of sour cream to bring a refreshing contrast to the warm chili.
Cincinnati Chili Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for Cincinnati Chili?
Absolutely! Using lean ground beef is your best option for a healthier chili without sacrificing flavor. Look for beef with around 80% lean content. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
How do I store leftover Cincinnati Chili?
Very simple! Store your Cincinnati Chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh. When stored correctly, you can enjoy this delicious comfort food again, just like the first time!
Can I freeze Cincinnati Chili?
Of course! Cincinnati Chili freezes beautifully. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and it can last for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat it up on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through for that cozy, homemade taste.
What if my Cincinnati Chili turns out too spicy?
Don’t fret! If your chili comes out hotter than you expected, stir in a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of vinegar to mellow the heat. You can also add more tomato sauce or beef broth to dilute the spice level. Taste as you adjust until it’s just right for your palate!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Cincinnati Chili gluten-free, simply ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and any other sauces you use are labeled gluten-free. You can serve it over gluten-free pasta, or even skip the noodles altogether for a flavorful bowl of chili on its own!
Is Cincinnati Chili safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid giving Cincinnati Chili to pets. The spices, particularly onions and garlic, can be harmful to dogs. Stick to pet-safe treats or plain meals if you’re looking to share a tasty dish with your furry friends!
Cincinnati Chili: Comforting Spiced Beef Over Spaghetti Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it's no longer pink, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions turn translucent.
- Stir in chili powder, ground cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, and the bay leaf. Toast these spices for 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaf and taste the chili. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
- Spoon the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onions.