Cincinnati Chili is a unique take on traditional chili, combining spices, ground beef, and tomato sauce, served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar cheese and onions. This dish has become a beloved comfort food in the Midwest, especially in Cincinnati, where it is often served in local chili parlors with a variety of toppings and served in different ways. The sweet and spicy flavor profile of Cincinnati Chili makes it a perfect dish for those who crave a comforting and hearty meal with a twist.
Unlike most chilis, Cincinnati Chili is not just served in a bowl but is typically poured over a bed of spaghetti, giving it a pasta dish quality. The richness of the chili and the melt-in-your-mouth cheese creates an indulgent experience. It’s a great dish for family meals, gatherings, or when you want to try something new with classic ingredients.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1 bay leaf
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 cup water
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2 tablespoons white vinegar
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1 tablespoon sugar
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 package spaghetti, cooked and drained
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Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
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Chopped onions, for topping
Directions:
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
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Stir in the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the tomato sauce, water, vinegar, and sugar. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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To serve, spoon the chili over a bed of cooked spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origins and Influences of Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili has its origins in the early 20th century when Macedonian immigrants brought their own variation of chili to the U.S. The dish evolved from traditional Greek and Middle Eastern stews, incorporating unique spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, which are not typically found in conventional chili recipes. These spices give the chili a distinct flavor that sets it apart from the more common Tex-Mex chili, which is primarily based on chili powder and cumin.
This fusion of flavors and spices was further adapted by local chili parlors in Cincinnati, which added their own twist, incorporating spaghetti and cheese as a base for the chili. The concept of serving the chili over spaghetti was inspired by the desire to create a filling meal at a reasonable price, making it perfect for the working class. Today, Cincinnati Chili is synonymous with the city, and it continues to be a comfort food staple enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Appeal of Cincinnati Chili
One of the main reasons Cincinnati Chili has gained such popularity is its unique flavor profile. While many traditional chilis rely on hearty, savory flavors, Cincinnati Chili incorporates sweet and aromatic spices such as cinnamon and cloves, adding complexity and depth to the dish. The chili sauce is thinner compared to typical chilis, but its richness and fragrance more than make up for its lighter texture.
The combination of spicy, sweet chili sauce, tender beef, and pasta is what makes Cincinnati Chili so special. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onions, it becomes a layered dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Whether you’re eating it in a bowl, on a hot dog (Coney-style), or over spaghetti (3-Way), Cincinnati Chili has a way of becoming comforting and indulgent without being overwhelming.
Why Cincinnati Chili is Ideal for Busy Weeknights
One of the best things about Cincinnati Chili is how quickly it comes together. With only a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a perfect dish to make when you want something hearty and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The chili simmers in less than an hour, and you can even make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for the next few days. This versatility makes Cincinnati Chili a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.
Customizing Cincinnati Chili
While the traditional method of serving Cincinnati Chili is with spaghetti, there are many ways to enjoy this dish. You can make it a “2-Way” by serving it over just spaghetti and chili, or a “4-Way” by adding kidney beans or onions. For a “5-Way” experience, you can top the chili with both beans and onions, along with shredded cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try it on top of a hot dog for a Coney-style chili dog.
Making Cincinnati Chili Vegetarian
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of Cincinnati Chili, you can easily swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or even lentils. These alternatives will still absorb the savory chili sauce and provide a satisfying texture. Additionally, you can make the dish dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using a non-dairy cheese alternative.
Pairing Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is often served with sides like a simple green salad, cornbread, or a slice of garlic bread. For a complete meal, pair the chili with a light and crisp salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A glass of iced tea or a cold beer can also complement the chili nicely, adding a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting flavors.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati Chili is a versatile, comforting dish that brings a unique twist to the traditional chili recipe. With its blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic spices, it stands out from other chili varieties and has earned its place as a beloved dish in the American Midwest. Whether you serve it over spaghetti, as a Coney dog, or with a combination of toppings, Cincinnati Chili is a fun and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers endless customization options, making it perfect for any taste preference or dietary need. Try Cincinnati Chili today for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.