Cincinnati Style Chili

Dive into the bold, unexpected flavors of Cincinnati Style Chili, a Midwestern classic that’s far from ordinary. This unique chili brings together a symphony of warming spices—like cinnamon, allspice, and unsweetened cocoa powder—that blend seamlessly with savory ground beef and rich tomato flavors. Simmered to perfection, this chili boasts a velvety texture and deep, aromatic complexity. Traditionally served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, kidney beans, and crunchy oyster crackers, this dish is as customizable as it is comforting. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty weeknight dinner or serving up authentic comfort food for a crowd, this one-pot wonder will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for those seeking a new twist on chili recipes, Cincinnati Style Chili is a must-try for your next cozy meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:135 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound spaghetti (optional, for serving)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1 cup diced onions (optional, for topping)
• 1 can canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for topping)
• 1 cup oyster crackers (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook and break up the meat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Do not drain the fat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the tomato paste, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat mixture.

Step 4

Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Mix in the cocoa powder, chili powder, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground cloves, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to integrate the spices.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the chili uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.

Step 7

While the chili simmers, if desired, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 8

To serve, place a portion of spaghetti on a plate or in a bowl. Ladle the chili over the spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, kidney beans, and oyster crackers, if desired.

Step 9

Enjoy your authentic Cincinnati Style Chili!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(4265.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5503.1

Total Fat 276.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 122.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 882.3mg	0%
Sodium 9069.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 494.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 57.2g	0%
Total Sugars 58.6g
Protein 296.6g	0%

Vitamin D 48.0IU	0%
Calcium 2208.6mg	0%
Iron 46.2mg	0%
Potassium 7658.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.0%

Protein: 21.0%

Carbs: 35.0%