Cincinnati Chili

Why You’ll LoveCincinnati Chili

Recipe

This Cincinnati Chili recipe offers a perfect blend of comfort food and exotic spice. It’s a great dish for anyone who loves hearty meals with bold, unexpected flavors. The layered serving method makes it customizable, whether you prefer it “two-way” with spaghetti and chili, or “five-way” with all the toppings. It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s a fun way to shake up your usual chili night.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Yellow onion

• Garlic

• Tomato paste

• Tomato sauce

• Beef broth

• Apple cider vinegar

• Worcestershire sauce

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground allspice

• Ground cloves

• Ground cumin

• Chili powder

• Bay leaf

• Sugar

• Salt and pepper

• Spaghetti (for serving)

• Kidney beans (optional topping)

• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

• Chopped onions (optional topping)

• Oyster crackers (optional side)

Directions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.

3. Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth until well combined.

4. Add the vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cocoa powder, and all the spices (cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cumin, chili powder, bay leaf, sugar, salt, and pepper).

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.

7. To serve, spoon the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with your choice of beans, chopped onions, and cheddar cheese.

8. Enjoy with oyster crackers on the side, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 2 hours, including simmering. Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes.

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Vegetarian: Use plant-based crumbles or lentils in place of ground beef and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

• Spicier Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.

• No-Spaghetti Version: Serve over rice or baked potatoes for a different base.

• Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier topping.

• Low-Carb: Serve over spiralized vegetables or cauliflower rice.

• Slow Cooker: After browning the meat and sautéing onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

• Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken.

• Taco Style: Use the chili as a taco filling with crunchy taco shells and toppings.

• Sweet Touch: Add a touch more sugar or a bit of dark chocolate for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Cincinnati Chili stores well and even tastes better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. You can also microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes Cincinnati Chili different from regular chili?

Cincinnati Chili includes unique spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cocoa powder, and it’s typically served over spaghetti rather than on its own.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Cincinnati Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Make it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

Is Cincinnati Chili supposed to be sweet?

It has a subtle sweetness due to the sugar and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, but it’s still savory overall.

What are the “ways” to serve Cincinnati Chili?

• 2-way: Chili over spaghetti

• 3-way: Chili, spaghetti, and cheese

• 4-way: Add either onions or beans

• 5-way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans

Can I freeze Cincinnati Chili?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Use plant-based ground meat or lentils and substitute vegetable broth for beef broth.

What type of cheese is best for topping?

Finely shredded sharp cheddar is the most traditional and best choice for topping Cincinnati Chili.

Do I need to drain the ground beef?

Not necessarily. Many recipes boil the beef directly in the broth to keep it fine and crumbly in texture, which is traditional for Cincinnati Chili.

Can I use pre-mixed chili seasoning?

It’s better to use individual spices to capture the authentic flavor, but in a pinch, you can mix chili powder with cinnamon, cocoa, and cloves.

Is it spicy?

Not typically. Cincinnati Chili is more aromatic and flavorful than hot. You can adjust heat to your preference by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.

Conclusion

Cincinnati Chili is a bold, comforting dish that blends American heartiness with unexpected spice. Whether you serve it two-way or go all out with five-way, it’s a unique meal that’s sure to surprise and satisfy. With its versatile serving options, easy storage, and big flavor, this is a must-try recipe that brings something new to the table.