If you’ve ever wanted to try a chili that’s bursting with unique flavors and steeped in tradition, then this Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe is just what you need. This isn’t your typical chili; it has a luscious, slightly sweet, and cinnamon-spiced profile that’s perfectly comforting and versatile. Prepared without browning the beef first and simmered slowly until all those fragrant spices meld beautifully, this Cincinnati classic transforms simple pantry ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re new to this style or craving a cozy, family-friendly meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe, you won’t need any exotic ingredients—just staples that bring out the depth and warmth unique to Cincinnati chili. Each one plays a key role, from giving the chili its rich color to layering in that signature sweet and spicy taste.
- Lean ground beef (2 pounds): Using lean beef keeps the chili rich but not greasy, letting the spices really shine.
- Medium onion (1, chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and backbone to the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Tomato paste (6 ounces): Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the chili’s base.
- Tomato sauce (16 ounces): Provides body and smoothness to the chili’s consistency.
- Water (1 cup): Helps thin out the sauce just enough for perfect simmering.
- White vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright tang that balances the sweetness and spices.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Introduces umami and savory depth.
- Chili powder (2 tablespoons): The core chili spice that brings warmth without overwhelming heat.
- Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): A subtle bitterness that enhances complexity without tasting like chocolate.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon): Just enough sweetness to soften the acidity from tomatoes.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Universal flavor enhancer to pull everything together.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, nutty fragrance that’s essential in chili.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Delivers an herbal note that rounds out the taste.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The hallmark spice that defines Cincinnati chili’s signature warm, sweet character.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses subtle pungency without overpowering.
- Ground allspice (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth with hints of clove and nutmeg.
- Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): A tiny pinch for that lingering aromatic finish.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A mild kick of heat to balance the sweetness and spices.
- Toppings: Cooked spaghetti, chopped raw onion, red kidney beans, shredded cheddar, and oyster crackers bring texture, creaminess, and extra flavor to your serving.
How to Make Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in Your Pot
Start by dumping all of your ingredients, except the toppings, straight into a large pot or Dutch oven. This includes the ground beef, chopped onion, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and all those wonderful spices. Unlike most chili recipes, don’t brown the beef beforehand—this rustic method locks in its tenderness as it slow simmers with the spices. Give everything a good stir to combine all those ingredients evenly before turning on the heat.
Step 2: Simmer Slowly for Flavor Development
Once everything is mixed, bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Keep the lid slightly ajar so some steam can escape, and let it cook slowly for at least one hour, up to two hours if you can. This slow simmer is crucial; it allows the flavors to deepen and meld into that classic, slightly sweet and aromatic sauce you expect from an authentic Cincinnati chili. Be sure to check occasionally to make sure there’s enough liquid so the chili doesn’t stick or burn on the bottom, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy Your Chili
After the chili has simmered, it’s ready to be served. This is where the fun begins, layering it over spaghetti and adding toppings to create your perfect “way” – whether you like it simple or loaded. The hearty meat sauce with its distinctive spice mix is incredibly satisfying and pairs beautifully with classic garnishes.
How to Serve Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The toppings make all the difference when serving your Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe, adding texture, flavors, and that signature look. Chopped raw onions bring a sharp crunch that contrasts the silky chili. Shredded cheddar cheese melts on contact, delivering creamy, tangy richness. Red kidney beans add another layer of heartiness and color. And for a touch of fun and tradition, sprinkle oyster crackers over the top—yes, this unusual choice adds a delightful salty crunch!
Side Dishes
To complement your Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe, serve it alongside simple side dishes like a crisp green salad or buttery cornbread. A refreshing salad lightens the meal with crispness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chili. Cornbread adds comfort with its sweet, moist crumb, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
While the classic Cincinnati chili over spaghetti is unbeatable, don’t be afraid to get creative. Try layering the chili in a casserole dish with spaghetti, cheese, and beans, then bake until bubbly for an indulgent treat. Or offer it as a topping for baked potatoes, turning this chili into a hearty loaded potato. For parties, serving the chili bar-style with different toppings laid out lets everyone customize their bowl, making this cozy dish interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from creeping in. The flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can taste even better the next day!
Freezing
For longer storage, this chili freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen chili can last up to three months, making it perfect for meal prep or those busy days when you want a comforting meal with zero fuss.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed chili gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring regularly to prevent scorching. Add a splash of water if it becomes too thick. The chili can also be reheated in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating and maintaining that luscious texture.
FAQs
What makes Cincinnati chili different from regular chili?
Cincinnati chili has a unique spice blend including cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes cocoa powder, giving it a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that distinguishes it from traditional Texas-style chili, which is tomato-forward and spicier.
Do I have to brown the meat first?
No, this Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe skips browning the meat before simmering. This technique keeps the beef tender and allows it to cook gently with the spices, resulting in that smooth, classic chili texture.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, lentils, or textured vegetable protein, and follow the same simmering process for a delicious meat-free version.
What is the best way to serve Cincinnati chili?
The classic way is over cooked spaghetti, often topped with cheddar, onions, and kidney beans in various combinations known as 2-Way, 3-Way, 4-Way, or 5-Way. Oyster crackers on the side are an iconic addition that adds crunch.
How long does it take to cook Cincinnati chili?
This Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe simmers for about an hour to two hours on low heat. This slow cooking step is essential to develop and meld the unique flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of Cincinnati’s culinary heritage into your kitchen with minimal fuss. Its distinct spice combination and comforting warmth make it a standout meal for any day of the week. I promise once you try it, this chili will become a beloved staple that you’ll want to share with family and friends again and again. So grab your pot and get ready to simmer up some magic!
Print
Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cincinnati Chili recipe delivers a rich, complex, and slightly sweet chili made with an aromatic blend of spices including cinnamon, cocoa, and allspice. Unlike traditional chili, the ground beef is not browned before simmering, allowing the unique flavors to meld slowly in a pot on the stovetop. Serve it over spaghetti and customize your toppings for a classic Cincinnati experience.
Ingredients
Chili Base
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Optional Toppings
- Cooked spaghetti
- Chopped raw onion
- Red kidney beans
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Oyster crackers
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Add the ground beef, chopped onion, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, garlic powder, allspice, cloves, and cayenne pepper into a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir well to combine all components evenly.
- Simmer the chili: Place the pot on medium-low heat on your stovetop with the lid slightly ajar. Allow the chili to gently simmer for at least 1 hour and up to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check to ensure there is enough liquid so the chili does not burn or stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Serve and customize: Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti. Customize your serving with toppings like chopped raw onions, shredded cheddar cheese, red kidney beans, and oyster crackers. Popular serving styles include 2-Way (chili + spaghetti), 3-Way (chili + spaghetti + cheddar), 4-Way (chili + spaghetti + cheddar + onions), and 5-Way (chili + spaghetti + cheddar + onions + beans).
Notes
- Do not brown the beef before cooking. This is a distinctive method in Cincinnati chili to keep the meat tender and allow flavors to develop.
- If the chili starts to dry out during simmering, add a little more water to maintain a saucy consistency.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level.
- Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat and creates a cleaner chili base.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days; the flavors intensify after resting.
