Cincinnati Chili is a unique blend of spices with a touch of sweetness, often served over spaghetti! It’s a fun twist on traditional chili that makes it extra special and cozy.
What makes this dish stand out? It’s topped with cheese, onions, and beans, giving it a hearty flair. I love how I can mix and match toppings for the perfect bite—everyone ends up with their own delicious creation! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The heart of the chili! You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. A vegetarian version can be made using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Spices: Don’t skip on the spices, as they create that distinct Cincinnati flavor! If you’re missing any, try using chili seasoning packets or experimenting with what you have, like taco seasoning.
Cocoa Powder: This adds depth to the chili, giving it a unique flavor profile. If you need a substitute, you can use a small bit of dark chocolate or even a touch of molasses for sweetness.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar is a classic topping, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Get the Chili to Be Thick and Flavorful?
The key to a delicious Cincinnati chili is in the simmering! Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Brown the meat well to develop flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Keep the heat low once you add water and tomato sauce—this helps the chili to reduce down.
- Simmer uncovered during the last 30 minutes if you want it thicker. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Patience is crucial here; allow the flavors to meld and develop over time for a rich and satisfying chili!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups water
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder or mild chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound spaghetti
For Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: diced onions, kidney beans or white beans, oyster crackers, or raw peanuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for prep, and around 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking. Including the time to boil the spaghetti, you should plan for a total of about 2 hours and 15 minutes for a full homemade Cincinnati chili experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
After the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the pot if needed. Then, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
3. Combine and Stir:
Next, pour in the water and the can of tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine well.
4. Mix in Seasonings:
Add in the apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cumin, paprika, cocoa powder (or mild chili powder), Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Give it a good stir until all the ingredients are mixed in.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!
6. Prepare the Spaghetti:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set aside.
7. Serve the Chili:
To serve, place a mound of cooked spaghetti on each plate. Spoon a generous amount of your delicious chili over the spaghetti.
8. Add Cheesy Topping:
Top with a large handful of shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt slightly from the heat of the chili.
9. Final Touches:
Feel free to add any additional toppings you love, such as diced onions, kidney or white beans, oyster crackers, or raw peanuts for that extra crunch and flavor.
10. Enjoy!
Dig into your Cincinnati-style chili! Enjoy the delightful mix of spices and the fun of customizing your bowl. This dish is known as a “3-way” when paired with spaghetti, chili, and cheese. You can even upgrade to a “4-way” or “5-way” by adding onions or beans!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian alternative, try lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just ensure to season appropriately to maintain flavor.
Can I Make Cincinnati Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili in advance! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply let it cool and store it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The flavors often improve after a day!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cincinnati chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for longer storage; just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container and will last about 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Are the Best Toppings for Cincinnati Chili?
Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney or white beans. For extra crunch, consider adding oyster crackers or raw peanuts. Feel free to customize based on your tastes—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!