Cincinnati Chili is a tasty twist on traditional chili. Made with ground beef, spices, and a hint of chocolate, it’s served over spaghetti and topped with cheese and onions!
I love how different this chili is from what you expect. It’s sweet and spicy, just like a surprise party for your taste buds! Try it with a side of corn muffins for a real treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds richness to the chili. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best! But you can swap in dried onion flakes or garlic powder in a pinch. It won’t have the same depth, but it’s better than missing these flavors altogether.
Spices: Cinnamon and cocoa powder are key to Cincinnati Chili’s unique flavor. If you don’t have some spices, don’t worry! You can use pre-made chili seasoning instead, though it’s a good idea to adjust for salt content.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic topping. However, feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for some heat, or a vegan cheese if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
How Do I Get My Chili to Taste Just Right?
Achieving the perfect flavor balance in Cincinnati Chili can take a little practice. Here’s what to focus on:
- First, brown the beef well—this adds flavor layers. Don’t rush this step; let it get nice and caramelized!
- When mixing spices, ensure they are well combined. Taste as you go, and adjust salt or heat level to suit your preference.
- Letting the chili simmer longer can enhance flavors, so don’t skip that part! Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Each of these steps brings the dish to life, making every bite a delicious blend of flavors! Enjoy making your Cincinnati Chili!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder or 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat preference)
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Optional toppings: diced onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers or saltine crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cincinnati Chili recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and then 1 to 2 hours to simmer. After that, you’ll just need a few minutes to cook the spaghetti and serve everything up. So, set aside about 2 to 2.5 hours total for cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, so you get those lovely little bits of beef.
2. Adding Onions and Garlic:
Now it’s time to add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture together until the onions become soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes, and it smells amazing!
3. Mixing in the Sauce:
Stir in the can of tomato sauce and the beef broth (or water). This will create a rich base for your chili.
4. Spicing It Up:
Next, add all those delightful spices—chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, allspice, cloves, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cocoa powder or grated chocolate, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Mix it all up so the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Simmering:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Partially cover the pot and let it cook for 1 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop!
6. Cooking the Spaghetti:
While the chili simmers, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it and set aside.
7. Serving the Chili:
To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate. Top it with a hearty ladle of Cincinnati chili, followed by a mountain of shredded cheese. Feel free to add any extra toppings like diced onions, if you like.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the chili warm with a side of oyster crackers or saltine crackers for a perfect meal. Enjoy your Cincinnati Chili, a comforting and flavorful dish the whole family will love!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may be a bit different, so you might want to adjust seasonings slightly for taste.
Can I Make Cincinnati Chili Spicy?
Yes! You can add more cayenne pepper or even fresh jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust it gradually to suit your heat preference.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make Cincinnati Chili Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Cincinnati Chili can be made a day in advance. It often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. Just reheat gently before serving over fresh spaghetti.