Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti is a yummy dish with a twist! It features a special chili topped with pasta, onions, and cheese for a hearty meal.
It’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting. I love that it’s super easy to whip up, and it always puts a smile on my face—and on my friends’ faces too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the chili its heartiness. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use lentils for a vegetarian twist!
Onions & Garlic: These are essential for flavor. If you dislike onions, you can skip them or use shallots for a milder taste. Garlic powder works well if you don’t have fresh garlic.
Tomato Sauce: This adds richness to the chili. If you prefer, use crushed tomatoes or even salsa for a different flavor profile!
Beans: Kidney beans are classic in Cincinnati chili, but you can swap them with black beans or chickpeas. Leave them out entirely for a meatier version.
Spices: The blend of spices is what makes Cincinnati chili special! If you’re lacking some spices, just use chili powder or a pre-mixed chili seasoning.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Spaghetti Al Dente?
Cooking the spaghetti correctly is key to hosting all that chili goodness. Al dente means “to the tooth,” which gives the pasta a bit of bite. Here’s how to do it right:
- Boil a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt—this adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add spaghetti and cook as per package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Test the pasta a minute before the time is up; it should be firm but cooked through.
- Drain immediately and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep it from getting too soft.
Enjoy your perfect spaghetti topped with that delicious Cincinnati chili!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti pasta
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend including cheddar and mozzarella)
- Optional toppings: chopped raw onions, oyster crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 45 minutes to cook. You’ll spend roughly 30 minutes on simmering the chili while the pasta cooks, making it a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt, then toss in the spaghetti. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together, stirring often, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Now, mix in the chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cumin, cloves, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and let the spices toast for about 1-2 minutes—this helps to bring out their flavors!
4. Combine & Simmer:
Pour in the water or beef broth along with the tomato sauce. Give it a good stir to mix everything nicely. If you’re using kidney beans, add those in as well. Let the chili simmer uncovered on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken up nicely during this time.
5. Serve It Up:
To serve, dish out a generous portion of cooked spaghetti onto plates. Top each plate with a good ladle of the Cincinnati chili, and then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. You can add optional toppings like chopped raw onions and oyster crackers for a bit of extra flair!
6. Enjoy!
Grab your fork and dig into this warm, comforting Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Meat or Make It Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or ground meat substitutes to make it vegetarian. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance out the heat if it becomes too spicy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the chili has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chili a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. The flavors of the chili will meld beautifully overnight!