Description

Cincinnati Chili is a uniquely spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti and traditionally topped with shredded cheese, onions, and beans—an iconic Midwest comfort food with Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground cloves
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 lb cooked spaghetti (for serving)
1 can kidney beans, rinsed and warmed (optional)
1 cup chopped onions (optional)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

In a large pot, crumble raw ground beef into 2 cups of beef broth over medium heat. Simmer and break up meat until fully cooked, about 10 minutes.
Add onion, garlic, tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cocoa powder, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve over cooked spaghetti and top as desired: 2-way (chili + spaghetti), 3-way (add cheese), 4-way (add onions or beans), or 5-way (add both onions and beans).

Notes

This chili has a thinner texture and a sweet-savory spice profile—great for layering.
Chili can be made ahead and reheated for deeper flavor.
Use finely shredded cheddar for easy melting on top.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chili bowl with spaghetti
Calories: 520
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 95mg