Cincinnati Chili is a unique American comfort food known for its rich, spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti. Unlike traditional chili, it has a thinner texture and a distinctive blend of warm spices such as cinnamon, chili powder, and cumin.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped onion, optional
- Kidney beans, optional
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
1. Cook the Beef
Place the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until no longer pink.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion begins to soften.
3. Add the chili ingredients
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste.
Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the chili
Add the Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and cook uncovered for about 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The sauce should become flavorful and slightly thickened while remaining thinner than traditional Texas-style chili.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
While the chili is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions.
Drain well and set aside.
6. Serve the Cincinnati Chili
Place cooked spaghetti on a plate and spoon the Cincinnati Chili over the top.
Finish with shredded cheddar cheese.
For a more traditional Cincinnati-style serving, you can add chopped onions and kidney beans.
Cincinnati Chili Ways
Cincinnati Chili is traditionally served in different combinations:
- 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, onions, and kidney beans
Tips for the Best Cincinnati Chili
- Use lean ground beef for a lighter sauce.
- Let the chili simmer slowly so the spices have time to develop.
- Adjust the cinnamon and spices to your taste.
- Cook the spaghetti separately for the best texture.
- Shred cheddar cheese yourself for better melting and flavor.
- Make the chili a day ahead for even deeper flavor.
What to Serve with Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is filling on its own, but you can serve it with garlic bread, a simple green salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables.
It also makes a great topping for hot dogs, especially when combined with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cincinnati Chili the same as regular chili?
No. Cincinnati Chili has a thinner consistency and uses a distinctive combination of spices. It is commonly served over spaghetti rather than eaten alone in a bowl.
Can I make Cincinnati Chili ahead of time?
Yes. The chili can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Cincinnati Chili?
Yes. Allow the chili to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Cincinnati Chili is a flavorful and distinctive American dish that brings together spaghetti, seasoned beef, and plenty of shredded cheese. Whether you serve it three-way, four-way, or five-way, it is an easy and satisfying meal with a unique regional character.