Cincinnati Chili is a fun twist on traditional chili, served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
This chili has a unique blend of spices that gives it a slightly sweet taste, making it super tasty. I love how you can pile on the toppings, making it your own delightful bowl of happiness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the chili. You can use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mixture of beans, like black beans and chickpeas.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder or garlic powder, but fresh always tastes better! I often throw in some green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
Chili Powder: This is essential for the characteristic chili flavor. If you want more heat, use a spicy chili powder or add cayenne pepper. For a different flavor, try mixing in some smoked paprika!
Cocoa Powder: It sounds unusual, but cocoa powder adds richness. If you don’t have it, a bit of dark chocolate or even a spoonful of molasses can work in a pinch.
Spaghetti: Traditionally, Cincinnati chili is served over spaghetti. If you’re gluten-free, spiralized zucchini or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Out of My Chili?
Simmering the chili is where all the magic happens! To get a rich, deep flavor, cooking the chili for an extended time allows the spices to blend harmoniously.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet that distributes heat evenly.
- Start with a medium-low heat after adding all your ingredients, then let it simmer uncovered. This helps thicken the chili.
- Stir occasionally, and if it looks too thick, don’t hesitate to splash in some extra beef broth or water.
Remember, the longer the simmer, the better the flavor! It’s also a great dish to prepare ahead and reheat, as the flavors continue to develop. Enjoy your warm bowl of Cincinnati chili!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder or a small square of dark chocolate
For Serving:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup kidney beans (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (for topping)
- Oyster crackers (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cincinnati Chili recipe will take around 15 minutes of prep time and about 1.5 hours of cooking time. So in total, plan for about 2 hours before you can dig into this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your chili isn’t greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth (or water), chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Make sure to mix everything together well.
4. Add the Cocoa:
Stir in the cocoa powder or dark chocolate until it melts and blends into the sauce. This will give your chili a unique depth of flavor!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Lower the heat and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it gets too thick. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors!
6. Cook the Spaghetti:
About 10-15 minutes before your chili is done, start cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set aside.
7. Serve Up the Goodness:
To serve, place a hearty scoop of spaghetti on a plate. Ladle the Cincinnati chili right over the top. Finish with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, and if you like, sprinkle on some chopped onions and kidney beans.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Optionally, serve with crab-style oyster crackers on the side. Dig in and enjoy your warm, comforting Cincinnati chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of Cincinnati chili. Just be sure to use a little olive oil while browning to prevent it from drying out, since turkey can be leaner than beef.
How Can I Store Leftover Cincinnati Chili?
Leftover Cincinnati chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and when reheating, stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Cocoa Powder?
If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can substitute with a small square of dark chocolate or even a touch of molasses for a hint of sweetness. Adjust to your taste, as you want to keep that rich flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Cincinnati chili, use lentils or a mix of your favorite beans (like black beans and kidney beans) instead of ground beef. You can also add some finely chopped veggies for added texture and flavor!
