If you’ve never experienced the cozy, unique flavors of a true regional classic, let me introduce you to the magic of the Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe. This dish is nothing like your typical chili; it’s a beautifully spiced, slightly sweet, and aromatic meat sauce served over a bed of spaghetti, crowned with a symphony of toppings that bring every bite to life. It’s comfort food with personality, combining savory, tangy, and subtly warm spices that make it utterly unforgettable, perfect for gatherings or winding down after a busy day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully combined ingredients. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the iconic flavor, texture, and color of Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe. From the hearty ground beef to the fragrant spices, you’ll see how they come together to craft something truly special.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option): The hearty base that soaks up all those warm spices beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers just the right punch of savoriness to the sauce.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Gives the sauce its smooth, rich foundation.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds texture and natural acidity to balance the flavors.
- 2 tbsp chili powder: Provides the signature chili warmth without overwhelming heat.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Brings earthiness that’s essential for that distinct Cincinnati chili taste.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A surprising touch of sweetness and warmth that sets this chili apart.
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens color and adds subtle complexity.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Brightens the sauce and keeps it vibrant.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a rich umami depth.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy note.
- 1 bay leaf: Offers a subtle herbal aroma during the simmer.
- 1 cup water (adjust for desired consistency): Keeps the chili luscious and saucy.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing): For cooking the beef and vegetables evenly.
- 1 lb spaghetti (for serving): The perfect canvas to hold the chili and toppings.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): Melts onto the chili for gooey decadence.
- Chopped onions (for topping): Adds crunch and sharp contrast.
- Kidney beans (optional, for topping): Brings texture and extra heartiness.
- Hot sauce (optional, for topping): For those who love a little extra kick.
How to Make Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until it’s evenly browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep the sauce from becoming greasy. This step builds the rich, meaty foundation that carries the chili’s flavors.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices
Once the beef has browned, toss in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften nicely and the kitchen starts smelling irresistible. Next, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, salt, and black pepper. Toast these spices for an extra minute or two; this little step intensifies the flavor and aroma, which is a hallmark of Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar, then add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil by adding a cup of water (add more if you prefer it thinner). Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking melds the spicy, sweet, and savory elements into a velvety, deeply flavored sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the chili is simmering, prepare the spaghetti according to package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain and set aside. The spaghetti is not just a side but a crucial part of this dish — acting as the base for your flavorful chili.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
To serve, plate a generous portion of spaghetti and ladle the rich Cincinnati chili on top. Don’t forget the classic toppings like shredded cheddar cheese that melts into the saucy chili, and fresh chopped onions that add a bold crunch. Optionally add kidney beans or a dash of hot sauce if you love some extra texture or spice. This final step brings your Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe to life, inviting everyone to dive into this comforting, flavorful feast.
How to Serve Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe
Garnishes
Classic toppings elevate the experience of this chili: a mountain of shredded cheddar cheese, crisp chopped onions, a spoonful of kidney beans, and a splash of hot sauce for anyone craving heat. These toppings are not just decoration — they each add different textures and layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Cornbread or crusty bread is also a fantastic choice, perfect for mopping up any extra sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the chili over spaghetti in individual bowls with a topping bar featuring cheddar, onions, beans, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their own. Or, try layering the chili and spaghetti in a casserole dish, topped with cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden for a cozy baked version of the Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. The spaghetti is best kept separate if possible to avoid it becoming mushy.
Freezing
You can freeze the chili alone in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For the best texture, freeze the chili and pasta separately.
Reheating
Reheat the chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add a splash of water if it becomes too thick. The spaghetti can be reheated by briefly warming in the microwave or quick sauté in a bit of oil to revive its texture.
FAQs
What makes Cincinnati chili different from regular chili?
Unlike traditional chili, Cincinnati chili features a unique blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cocoa powder, giving it a subtle sweetness and complexity. It’s served over spaghetti rather than eaten standalone or with cornbread, making it a distinctive regional comfort food.
Can I make this recipe with turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Using ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and still works wonderfully with the spice blend to maintain the classic flavors.
Is kidney beans traditional in Cincinnati chili?
Kidney beans are optional but commonly offered as a topping rather than cooked inside the chili itself. This lets people customize the dish to their liking.
How spicy is Classic Cincinnati Chili?
It typically has mild heat, focusing more on aromatic spices rather than chili heat. You can always add hot sauce or chili flakes to your personal serving if you want more kick.
Can I prepare this chili in advance for a party?
Yes! This chili actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld, so making it a day ahead and reheating before serving works perfectly for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the full scoop on how to make this fantastic Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe, I hope you’ll give it a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — rich, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this chili is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti and Toppings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cincinnati Chili is a flavorful, unique take on traditional chili, served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and optional kidney beans. This recipe combines aromatic spices like cinnamon and cocoa powder with classic chili ingredients, resulting in a rich, comforting dish perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
For Serving:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Chopped onions (for topping)
- Kidney beans (optional, for topping)
- Hot sauce (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add the Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Simmer the Chili: Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and bay leaf. Stir to combine, then add 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer on Low Heat: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add more water if chili becomes too thick, adjusting to your desired consistency.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the chili simmers, prepare spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble and Serve: Place cooked spaghetti on plates, ladle Cincinnati chili over the top, and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and kidney beans if desired. Add hot sauce for extra heat.
Notes
- For a leaner chili, substitute ground turkey for beef.
- The cocoa powder adds depth and richness but is subtle; do not omit if aiming for authentic flavor.
- Adjust water quantity to achieve your preferred chili thickness.
- Kidney beans are optional but add texture and more protein.
- Serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
