Name: Cincinnati Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American (Midwest)
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups water; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground allspice; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1 bay leaf; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp sugar; 1 lb spaghetti, cooked (for serving); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for serving); 1 cup diced onions (optional, for serving); 1 cup kidney beans (optional, for serving); Oyster crackers (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore regional American cuisine. Cincinnati Chili stands out with its complex layering of spices and flavors. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable with various “ways” to serve it (like 3-way, 4-way, or 5-way), and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or just looking for something new to add to your dinner rotation, this recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful experience every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
onion
garlic
tomato paste
tomato sauce
water
unsweetened cocoa powder
chili powder
ground cinnamon
ground allspice
ground cloves
bay leaf
apple cider vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
salt
black pepper
sugar
spaghetti (for serving)
shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
diced onions (optional, for serving)
kidney beans (optional, for serving)
oyster crackers (optional, for serving)

Directions

In a large pot, combine ground beef with water. Bring to a boil while breaking up the meat with a spoon. Simmer for 30 minutes until the meat is fully cooked.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes.
Mix in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and remaining spices including cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf.
Stir in apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar.
Simmer uncovered on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve over cooked spaghetti and top as desired:
- 3-Way: Spaghetti, chili, cheese
- 4-Way: Add onions or beans
- 5-Way: Add both onions and beans

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for more heat.
Slow Cooker Method: Brown the meat and combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chili over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Chili Dogs: Use the chili to top hot dogs for a classic Cincinnati-style coney.

Storage/Reheating

Let the chili cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water if the chili thickens too much when reheated.

FAQs

What makes Cincinnati Chili different from regular chili?

Cincinnati Chili has a thinner consistency and a sweet-spiced flavor profile that includes cinnamon, allspice, and sometimes chocolate.

Can I make Cincinnati Chili ahead of time?

Yes, the flavor actually improves the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Is Cincinnati Chili spicy?

It’s more aromatic than spicy, though you can add heat to taste.

What does “5-Way” chili mean?

5-Way chili includes spaghetti, chili, shredded cheese, onions, and beans.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner substitute.

What kind of cheese is best for topping?

Shredded mild or sharp cheddar is the classic choice for Cincinnati Chili.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can sauté the beef and onions on the sauté setting, then cook on high pressure for 20 minutes with a natural release.

How do I prevent the chili from becoming too thick?

Keep it covered while simmering and add water as needed to maintain your preferred consistency.

Are there vegetarian or vegan versions of this chili?

Yes, plant-based crumbles or lentils work well, and you can use vegan cheese to keep it dairy-free.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use angel hair or even macaroni if preferred.

Conclusion

Cincinnati Chili offers a flavorful twist on traditional chili that’s sure to impress. With its rich, spiced meat sauce and versatile serving options, it’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is unique. Whether you go 3-Way, 4-Way, or all out with 5-Way, this regional specialty is a delicious way to break out of your dinner routine.

Cincinnati Chili

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cincinnati Chili is a Midwest classic — a spiced meat sauce flavored with cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and cocoa powder, traditionally served over spaghetti or hot dogs with customizable toppings. Its Mediterranean-inspired flavors make it a unique twist on chili.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American (Midwest)
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a large pot, add ground beef and water. Bring to a boil, breaking up the meat, and simmer 30 minutes until cooked.
Add onion and garlic, cooking 5 minutes more.
Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and bay leaf.
Add apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
Simmer uncovered on low for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Remove bay leaf before serving.
Serve over spaghetti and top as desired: 3-Way (spaghetti, chili, cheese); 4-Way (add onions or beans); 5-Way (add both onions and beans).

Notes

Flavor deepens overnight, making this a great make-ahead meal.
For spicier chili, add cayenne or hot sauce.
Keep covered or add water if chili becomes too thick during simmering.
Traditionally served with shredded cheddar, diced onions, beans, and oyster crackers.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 520
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 880mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 95mg