There’s something incredibly inviting about the rich aroma of spices simmering on the stove, and that’s exactly what Cincinnati Chili delivers. As I stirred a pot filled with ground beef, tomatoes, and a touch of cinnamon, I realized how comforting this unique twist on chili can be. Unlike the traditional chili that we often think of, this dish creates a harmonious blend of flavors that might surprise even the most seasoned chili lovers.
Perfectly served over a bed of spaghetti and topped generously with cheddar cheese, Cincinnati Chili transcends the ordinary and becomes an experience to savor. Whether I’m hosting friends for a casual gathering or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, its versatility allows for personal touches—feel free to add beans, serve it over fries, or adjust spices to your liking. Join me on this journey as we transform simple ingredients into a warm and delightful dish that captures the heart of comfort food!
Why is Cincinnati Chili so special?
Unique Flavor Profile: The mix of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves elevates this dish beyond ordinary chili.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over spaghetti, fries, or baked potatoes to suit any palate.
Ideal for Gatherings: Perfect for a casual get-together or a comforting weeknight meal.
Easy to Personalize: Feel free to add ingredients like beans or even chocolate for a fun twist.
Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance—this chili tastes even better the next day!
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, ensuring seconds are always requested.
Cincinnati Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
• Ground Beef – Main protein; choose lean for a healthier option.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be a nice substitute.
• Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; fresh is recommended for the best taste.
• Chili Powder – The backbone spice blend; try different types for varying heat.
• Ground Cinnamon – This is the secret ingredient that gives Cincinnati-style chili its warmth.
• Ground Cumin – Offers an earthy flavor that complements the spices.
• Ground Allspice – Enhances the chili’s complexity; optional but recommended.
• Ground Cloves – Adds a unique sweetness; use sparingly for authentic flavor.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses subtle herbal notes; remember to remove before serving.
• Tomato Sauce – The base for your chili; opt for crushed tomatoes for texture.
• Beef Broth – Adds rich depth; consider low-sodium to manage salt levels.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Increases umami; a must for balanced flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Cuts the richness with acidity; red wine vinegar is a good substitute.
• Sugar – Balances the chili’s acidity; can be reduced or substituted with honey.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; use to taste.
For Serving
• Cooked Spaghetti – The traditional base; gluten-free pasta is an excellent alternative.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess; consider non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.
• Chopped Onions – Fresh garnish for added crunch and flavor.
Cincinnati Chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
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Brown the Beef: In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep your chili from becoming too oily.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until the onion is translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. This step builds a comforting base flavor.
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Toast the Spices: Add the chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf; stir and toast for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will infuse your chili with warm, aromatic flavors.
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Mix in Tomato Base: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to create a rich sauce that binds all the flavors together.
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Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook gently for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking develops deeper flavors and a smooth texture.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasonings to taste, and serve over cooked spaghetti topped with shredded cheddar and chopped onions for that classic Cincinnati touch!
Optional: For extra richness, stir in a splash of unsweetened cocoa or dark chocolate before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cincinnati Chili?
There’s nothing like the mouthwatering aroma of Cincinnati Chili wafting through your home, but the right side dishes can elevate this meal to a whole new experience.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch perfectly complements the rich flavors of the chili, adding a touch of indulgence.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast with its cool, crunchy texture, coleslaw balances the warmth and spices of the chili beautifully.
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Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread soaks up the chili sauce, creating a comforting bite that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tender roasted veggies add a pop of color and earthy flavors, creating a nutritious contrast to the hearty chili.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili, giving a fun, casual twist to the dining experience.
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Pickles: Tangy pickles cut through the richness, adding a surprising zing that refreshes the palate with every bite.
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Sparkling Water: A cool, fizzy beverage to cleanse the palate. Try a citrus-flavored sparkling water for a bright, refreshing sip.
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Chocolate Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies become an irresistible sweet finish after a warm bowl of Cincinnati Chili, leaving your guests yearning for more.
No matter what you choose, each pairing enhances the comforting essence of Cincinnati Chili, inviting you to savor every delightful moment.
Cincinnati Chili Variations
Feel free to personalize your Cincinnati Chili experience with these delightful twists that will elevate your dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat that awakens the palate. Spice lovers will delight in this added warmth!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground beef for lentils or textured vegetable protein to create a hearty, plant-based option that’s just as satisfying.
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Rich Chocolate: Incorporate a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or dark chocolate for a deep, luxurious flavor. This unexpected twist adds a wonderful depth to your chili!
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Creamy Avocado: Top with freshly diced avocado for a contrasting creaminess and a cool refreshment against the spice. It’s a delightful addition that enhances every bite.
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Bean Boost: Mix in a can of your favorite beans—black, kidney, or pinto—for added texture and fiber. This hearty addition will surely make your chili feel even more comforting.
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Smoky Note: Use smoked paprika instead of regular chili powder for a warm, smoky flavor that will transport your taste buds to a cozy campfire scene.
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Cheesy Variations: Replace shredded cheddar with crumbled feta or pepper jack cheese for an unexpected twist. Your chili will enter a new flavor realm with this simple swap!
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving to give a vibrant freshness that beautifully contrasts with the rich warmth of the chili. It’s a burst of color and flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cincinnati Chili
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Fridge: Store Cincinnati Chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.
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Freezer: Freeze Cincinnati Chili for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers; label them with the date for easy tracking.
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Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For quicker thawing, place the container in cold water for a few hours.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of beef broth can help restore moisture.
Expert Tips for Cincinnati Chili
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Simmer Slowly: Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing it to simmer gently develops deeper, more complex flavors for your Cincinnati Chili.
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Make Ahead Magic: Cook it a day in advance! The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when you reheat.
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Thickening Trick: For a thicker consistency, let your chili simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
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Drain the Beef: Make sure to drain the excess fat from the browned beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add beans, but remember that this deviates slightly from the classic Cincinnati Chili tradition! Use your preference for a little twist.
Make Ahead Options
Cincinnati Chili is an ideal recipe for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire chili up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld beautifully. Start by making the chili as instructed, then cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. This method not only enhances the taste but also keeps the chili just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the comfort of Cincinnati Chili with minimal fuss on your hectic nights!
Cincinnati Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for Cincinnati Chili?
Aim for lean ground beef with about 80-90% lean meat to avoid excess grease. If you’re looking for an even healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work wonderfully too! Always check the color; it should be bright red without any off-putting odors.
How should I store leftover Cincinnati Chili?
After cooling, store your Cincinnati Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, ensure the container is sealed tightly. I often make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week, and it makes great leftovers!
Can I freeze Cincinnati Chili? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze Cincinnati Chili for up to 3 months. To do this, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Press out any air before sealing to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating it gently on the stove.
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What if my Cincinnati Chili is too watery?
If you find your chili too watery, don’t worry! Just let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help evaporate excess liquid and thicken the chili. Additionally, stirring occasionally keeps it from sticking. For those seeking a thicker texture, you can also mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can my pets share in some Cincinnati Chili?
While it might be tempting to share your Cincinnati Chili with your furry friends, it’s best to keep it away from them. Ingredients like garlic and onion, common in chili, can be harmful to pets. Instead, consider preparing a special pet-friendly meal using plain cooked meats and veggies just for them.
What dietary modifications can I make for Cincinnati Chili?
You can easily adjust this Cincinnati Chili recipe for different diets. For a gluten-free option, serve it over gluten-free pasta. Use non-dairy cheese for a vegan version, and feel free to replace ground beef with plant-based substitutes like lentils or crumbled tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist. Enjoy personalizing your chili to fit your needs!
Cincinnati Chili: Comforting Spiced Beef Over Spaghetti Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Beef: In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until the onion is translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Toast the Spices: Add the chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf; stir and toast for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in Tomato Base: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook gently for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasonings to taste, and serve over cooked spaghetti topped with shredded cheddar and chopped onions.