Cincinnati Chili is unlike traditional chili served across most of the United States. Instead of being thick and chunky, this Ohio favorite has a rich, silky texture and a distinctive blend of warm spices. The dish is famously served over spaghetti and topped with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Ingredients such as cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and a small amount of unsweetened chocolate create the signature flavor that has made Cincinnati-style chili famous for generations. This homemade version captures the sweet-savory balance that makes the dish so memorable while remaining easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Main Essence of This Dish
The true character of Cincinnati Chili comes from its unexpected combination of spices and its unique serving style. Unlike Texas chili or classic beef chili, this recipe combines ground beef with tomato sauce, warm baking spices, vinegar, and chocolate to create a deeply flavorful sauce. Served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans, it delivers a comforting meal with layers of flavor in every bite.
What Is Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati Chili originated in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has become one of the region’s most iconic foods. The dish is known for its Mediterranean-inspired spice profile and is commonly served in several styles known as “ways.”
| Style | What It Includes |
|---|---|
| 2-Way | Spaghetti and chili |
| 3-Way | Spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheddar cheese |
| 4-Way | Spaghetti, chili, cheese, and onions or beans |
| 5-Way | Spaghetti, chili, cheese, onions, and beans |
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Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 cups beef broth
- 16 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- 12 ounces cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Oyster crackers (optional)
Ingredient Notes
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened Chocolate | Adds depth and subtle richness without making the chili sweet. |
| Cinnamon | Provides the signature warm flavor Cincinnati chili is known for. |
| Allspice & Cloves | Create complexity and aromatic spice notes. |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Balances the richness with a slight tang. |
| Cheddar Cheese | Traditional topping that adds creaminess and texture. |
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How to Make Cincinnati Chili
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic, chili powder, oregano, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and chopped chocolate. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Add the ground beef directly to the pot. Use a spoon to break it into very small pieces as it cooks.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions and drain.
- To serve, place spaghetti on a plate, spoon the chili over the top, and finish with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. Add onions, beans, or crackers if desired.
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Tips for the Best Cincinnati Chili
- Break the beef into very fine crumbles for an authentic texture.
- Allow the chili to simmer gently so the spices can fully develop.
- Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better and tastes richer.
- The flavor becomes even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
- If the chili becomes too thick, add a splash of broth before reheating.
Storage and Reheating
| Method | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a little broth or water if necessary.
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Nutritional Information
Approximate nutrition per serving of chili only (without spaghetti and toppings).
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 235 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 298 mg |
| Cholesterol | 62 mg |
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Serving Suggestions
Cincinnati Chili is traditionally served over spaghetti, but it is also excellent on hot dogs, baked potatoes, fries, or even as a hearty topping for rice. For a complete Cincinnati-style experience, serve it with a mound of finely shredded cheddar cheese and a side of oyster crackers.
