Cincinnati Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty and unique dish to spice up your dinner routine, this Cincinnati Chili recipe will become a go-to! With a rich blend of spices, tender beef, and a surprising touch of chocolate, this dish creates a beautiful harmony of sweet and savory. 

 

 

That’s right, this Cincinnati style chili recipe is often served over spaghetti.

It’s a talking point by itself, but the flavors of the spaghetti chili are the best part.

Combining cinnamon, cloves, and chocolate gives Cincinnati Chili a unique flavor you won’t find in traditional chili.

The chili develops even more flavor after sitting overnight, making it a great choice for make-ahead meals.

And whether you’re a fan of shredded cheddar, beans, or even onions, there are various ways you can top it to make it perfect for you.

This style of chili is one both kids and adults will love – everyone enjoys it served over spaghetti!

Though the ingredient list may seem long, the steps are straightforward, and the result is a delicious, hearty meal.

Poured over spaghetti and topped with a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, Cincinnati Chili recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. If you are ready for the best chili of your life, let’s get making this Cincinnati Chili spaghetti.

 

 

What is Cincinnati Chili?

Cincinnati Chili is one of those regional dishes that originated in Ohio in the Cincinnati area.

Unlike traditional chili, this version is flavored with a variety of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, giving it a unique sweet and savory profile.

It’s often served over spaghetti and topped with cheddar cheese, beans, and onions, making it a truly one-of-a-kind dish. And one every Ohio native loves.

 

 

What Ingredients Are in This Cincinnati Chili Recipe?

• Beef broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base and adds richness to the dish.
• Ground beef: The main protein in the chili, crumbled finely to soak up all the delicious spices.
• Vegetable oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, giving the base an aromatic flavor.
• White onion: Adds a mild sweetness and texture to the chili.
• Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the richness of the spices.
• Chili Powder: The primary seasoning for a chili lover.
• Ground Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon: A little bit adds to the distinctive flavors of the Cincinnati spaghetti.
• Allspice: Provides a subtle warmth and spiciness to the flavor profile.
• Ground cloves: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, enhancing the cinnamon and chocolate flavors.
• Cayenne: Adds a slight kick of heat to the chili, balancing the sweet elements.
• Bay leaf: Infuses the chili with a mild herbal note.
• Tomato sauce: Creates a rich, flavorful base for the chili.
• Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of the spices and chocolate.
• Unsweetened chocolate: The secret ingredient that enhances the chili’s richness and adds a layer of complexity.
• Spaghetti Noodles: The base for serving the chili, giving it the signature style.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: This shredded cheese melts over the chili, giving a creamy and sharp contrast to the savory flavors.
• Small red beans: Added at the end, they bring extra texture and heartiness to the dish.

 

 

How to Make This Cincinnati Chili Recipe:

1. Cook the ground beef in broth in a large skillet over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it into fine pieces.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in oil until soft.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and other spices to the onion mixture and cook until fragrant.
4. Combine the onion-spice mixture with the beef and broth mixture.
5. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, vinegar, and chocolate to the pot and let it simmer to develop flavors.
6. Stir in the beans shortly before the chili is done.
7. Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Pro Tip: For best results, refrigerate the chili overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even better the next day.

 

 

How is Cincinnati Chili Recipe Served?

Cincinnati Chili recipe is traditionally served over spaghetti, unlike other types of chili that are served in bowls. The “ways” system defines how you can enjoy it:

• Two-Way: Chili over spaghetti.
• Three-Way: Chili, spaghetti, and shredded cheddar cheese.
• Four-Way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, and chopped onions.
• Five-Way: Chili, spaghetti, cheese, chopped onions, and beans.

 

 

How to Store Cincinnati Chili Recipe:

To store, allow the Cincinnati-style chili to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.

It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Can You Freeze Cincinnati Chili Recipe?

Yes! The best Cincinnati Chili recipe freezes beautifully.

Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion.

It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

 

 

What Goes with Cincinnati Chili Recipe?

Cincinnati Chili recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Try some of these favorites:

• Potato Gratin Stacks
• Cheese Soup
• Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Farro Sweet Potato Salad
• Potato Leek  and Bacon Bake
• Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese
• Arugula Beet Goat Cheese Salad
• Raw Parsnip Salad
• Easy Strawberry Spinach Salad
• Gluten Free French Fried Onions Recipe
• Mexican Tomatoes
• Power Greens Salad
• Irish Soda Bread
• Chili Cheese Frito Corn Salad
• Sweet Chili Edamame

 

 

Is Cincinnati Chili Recipe Healthy?

Cincinnati Chili is a balanced meal that provides protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, especially when served with beans and spaghetti.

However, it can be high in sodium and fat, so portion control and ingredient choices like low-sodium broth can make it a healthier option.

Is Cincinnati Chili Recipe Gluten-Free?

The Cincinnati chili recipe itself is naturally gluten-free, as it’s made from meat, vegetables, and spices.

However, traditional Cincinnati Chili is served over a bed of spaghetti, which contains gluten.

 

 

To make this dish gluten-free, the only thing you need is a gluten-free pasta option.

The next time you need a great dinner, try this homemade Cincinnati chili. Easily served different ways for the pickiest eater, this unique blend of spices is sure to satisfy everyone’s preferences.

 

Originally Posted: May 17, 2017

Photos & Text Updated: February 22, 2025

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