(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Tomato sauce
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Apple cider vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
Chili powder
Ground cumin
Cinnamon
Cocoa powder
Allspice
Cayenne pepper
Salt
Black pepper
Spaghetti
Kidney beans
Shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
In a large pot, combine the ground beef and beef broth over medium heat, breaking up the meat until finely crumbled.
Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, allspice, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1–1½ hours, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Warm the kidney beans if using.
To serve, place spaghetti on a plate and top with the chili sauce.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and optional toppings such as onions or beans.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Variations
Make it spicier with extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Serve over hot dogs for classic chili dogs.
Add diced onions and oyster crackers for traditional toppings.
Make it vegetarian by substituting lentils or plant-based meat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili becomes too thick. Microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
FAQs
What makes Cincinnati Chili different from regular chili?
It uses warm spices like cinnamon and cocoa and is traditionally served over spaghetti.
Is Cincinnati Chili sweet?
It has a subtle sweetness from the spices but remains savory overall.
What are the traditional “ways” of serving it?
Two-way includes spaghetti and chili, three-way adds cheese, four-way adds onions or beans, and five-way includes all toppings.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors improve after resting overnight.
What cheese is traditionally used?
Finely shredded mild cheddar cheese is most common.
Can I freeze Cincinnati Chili?
Yes, it freezes very well for future meals.
Do I have to serve it over spaghetti?
No, it can also be served on hot dogs, fries, or baked potatoes.
Why is the beef texture so fine?
The beef is cooked directly in liquid and broken apart thoroughly for a smoother texture.
Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
What side dishes go well with Cincinnati Chili?
Garlic bread, salads, or oyster crackers pair nicely with the dish.
Conclusion
Cincinnati Chili is a comforting and distinctive dish that combines savory beef sauce with warm spices and classic toppings for an unforgettable meal. Served over spaghetti or piled onto hot dogs, this regional favorite delivers rich flavor and cozy comfort that keeps people coming back for more.
Cincinnati Chili is a rich and uniquely spiced chili recipe served over spaghetti and topped with cheddar cheese, onions, and beans. Made with warm spices like cinnamon and cocoa, this classic comfort food is a beloved regional favorite packed with bold flavor.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
4 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 ounces spaghetti
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, warmed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
In a large pot, combine ground beef and beef broth over medium heat. Break the beef apart until finely crumbled.
Add onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, allspice, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Warm kidney beans if using.
To serve, place spaghetti on plates and top with chili sauce.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and optional toppings like onions or beans.
Serve hot.
Notes
For the most authentic texture, break the beef into very fine crumbles while cooking. Cincinnati Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have blended. Traditional serving styles include “three-way” with spaghetti, chili, and cheese or “five-way” with onions and beans added.
