When you think of chili, you might picture a thick, spicy stew loaded with beans and peppers. But in Cincinnati, chili means something completely different — a uniquely spiced meat sauce, served over spaghetti, and topped with mountains of shredded cheese. Cincinnati chili is truly one of America’s most iconic regional dishes.
Unlike traditional Southwestern-style chili, Cincinnati chili is thinner, almost resembling a sauce. It features a surprising blend of spices like cinnamon, allspice, and even a hint of cocoa powder, creating a flavor profile that’s savory, slightly sweet, and totally unforgettable.
Cincinnati chili was created by Macedonian immigrants in the 1920s who adapted Mediterranean spices into a dish that became a local sensation. Today, it’s a staple in Ohio and beloved by locals and visitors alike.
One of the most charming aspects of Cincinnati chili is the “way” system: 2-way, 3-way, 4-way, or 5-way. It describes how many toppings you add to your plate, ranging from spaghetti and chili (2-way) to including onions, beans, and a mountain of cheddar (5-way).
This dish is hearty, comforting, and packed with layers of flavor. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.
Despite its seemingly complex spice blend, making Cincinnati chili at home is straightforward. With a few pantry staples and a little simmering time, you can enjoy a bowl of this Midwestern treasure.
Because the meat is simmered without browning, it becomes incredibly tender, creating a silky, luscious texture that coats every strand of spaghetti.
What sets this recipe apart is that it uses ground beef without any pork products, making it widely accessible. It sticks to authentic flavors but stays friendly to various dietary preferences.
Another reason to love Cincinnati chili is its versatility. You can serve it traditionally over pasta or use it as a topping for hot dogs (called “coneys”) or even enjoy it on baked potatoes.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual game-day gatherings, or anytime you crave something hearty and different.
The toppings — heaps of sharp cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney beans — provide not just flavor but also wonderful texture contrasts.
The fragrance as it simmers will fill your kitchen with warm, spicy aromas that feel both cozy and exciting.
Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, Cincinnati chili is a dish that sparks nostalgia and curiosity. One bite and you’ll understand why it has such a loyal following.
Let’s bring a taste of Cincinnati into your kitchen with this easy, unforgettable chili recipe.
Servings: 6 servings
Time: Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained
Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced yellow onions
- 1 cup cooked kidney beans
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine ground beef and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, breaking up the meat with a spoon. No need to brown the beef first.
- Stir in tomato paste, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, allspice, cumin, cloves, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened but still saucy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- To serve, place a bed of cooked spaghetti on a plate.
- Top with a ladle of the chili.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add diced onions and cooked kidney beans if desired for a 5-way experience.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Tips:
- Don’t brown the meat; simmering it directly in broth creates the signature texture.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper.
- Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for a quick future meal.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting texture.
- Serve immediately to maintain the perfect temperature contrast between the hot chili and cool toppings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Cincinnati Chili brings a rich, spiced, slightly sweet flavor that’s unlike any other chili. It’s hearty, satisfying, and fun to customize with different toppings. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy nights.
Bring a Midwest favorite into your kitchen with this easy Cincinnati Chili recipe. Rich with spices, hearty ground beef, and a unique twist, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
