Cincinnati Chili Recipe

There’s nothing quite like gathering my family around the table for a truly special, yet simple, meal. The rich, complex aroma of a simmering Cincinnati chili recipe instantly fills our home with warmth and anticipation. Especially on busy weeknights, I find myself reaching for reliable, hearty meals that offer both comfort and convenience. This classic Cincinnati chili recipe is a flavorful tradition, perfect for family dinners or a casual get-together, and promises a unique taste that stands out.

Ingredients With Functional Roles

Core Ingredients for Your Cincinnati Chili Recipe:

• 680 g / 1.5 lbs lean ground beef: Our hearty base, providing robust flavor.
• 2 medium (200 g) yellow onions, finely chopped: An aromatic foundation for depth (or white onions if that’s what’s on hand).
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, savory kick.
• 70 g / 2.5 oz tomato paste: A rich flavor booster for body.
• 700 ml / 3 cups vegetable broth: The liquid for simmering (or beef broth for a deeper, traditional flavor).
• 30 ml / 2 tbsp alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and tang.
• 15 g / 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens color and complexity.
• 15 g / 1 tbsp chili powder: The essential spice for warmth.
• 7 g / 1.5 tsp smoked paprika: Imparts a lovely smoky note.
• 5 g / 1 tsp ground cumin: Provides earthy warmth.
• 5 g / 1 tsp Aleppo pepper flakes: A mild, fruity heat with a hint of tang.
• 2.5 g / 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: The signature sweet spice that makes this Cincinnati chili recipe unique.
• 1.25 g / 1/4 tsp ground allspice: Complex notes, bridging sweet and savory.
• 0.6 g / 1/8 tsp ground cloves: Aromatic depth in small measure.
• 5 g / 1 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
• 2.5 g / 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste: Adds a sharp, fresh finish.
• 450 g / 1 lb spaghetti: The traditional foundation for serving.
• 225 g / 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: A crucial topping, made with microbial rennet.
• 15 g / 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: For fresh aroma and color.
• 5 g / 1 tsp ground sumac: Adds a bright, tangy finish to the topping.
• 50 g / 1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Provides a sharp, fresh crunch for garnish.

Better-for-You Upgrades:

• Opt for grass-fed beef or lean ground turkey for a more mindful choice.
• Choose organic tomato paste and broth for quality ingredients.
• Use low-sodium broth to control overall salt intake in your dish.

Substitutions for Diet Niches:

• Vegan/Vegetarian: Use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth for a delicious alternative.
• Keto/Low-Carb: Ensure no added sugars in tomato products; omit the traditional spaghetti and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or over steamed rice instead of regular spaghetti.

Market & Seasonality Notes:

Most ingredients are pantry staples you likely have or can find easily. Fresh produce like onions and garlic is readily available year-round. Consider freezing ground meat when it’s on sale to help manage your budget for this easy dinner idea.

Preparation & Cooking Method

Step-by-Step for Your Cincinnati Chili Recipe:

1. Brown the Meat (5-7 mins): In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown 680 g (1.5 lbs) lean ground beef over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains, breaking it apart finely. Drain any excess fat thoroughly; the beef should look crumbly and cooked through.
2. Sauté Aromatics (5-8 mins): Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 medium finely chopped yellow onions to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor Base (1-2 mins): Stir in the 70 g (2.5 oz) tomato paste, 15 g (1 tbsp) chili powder, 7 g (1.5 tsp) smoked paprika, 5 g (1 tsp) ground cumin, 5 g (1 tsp) Aleppo pepper flakes, 2.5 g (1/2 tsp) ground cinnamon, 1.25 g (1/4 tsp) ground allspice, and 0.6 g (1/8 tsp) ground cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast these spices until they release a rich, deep aroma.
4. Simmer to Perfection (1-2 hours): Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in 700 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth and 30 ml (2 tbsp) alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce. Stir in 15 g (2 tbsp) unsweetened cocoa powder, 5 g (1 tsp) salt, and 2.5 g (1/2 tsp) black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring every 15-20 minutes. If it thickens too much or looks dry, stir in an extra splash of vegetable broth to maintain its thin, sauce-like consistency.
5. Adjust & Serve: The chili should be thin and sauce-like, not thick like a traditional stew. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to ensure a balanced, deep flavor before plating. I often make a double batch of this Cincinnati chili recipe on a Sunday; the flavors truly deepen overnight, making weeknight meals a breeze.

Variations for Speed & Equipment:

• Instant Pot: Brown meat, sauté aromatics, add other ingredients, then pressure cook for 20 minutes with natural release for a quicker method.
• Slow Cooker: Brown meat and aromatics in a skillet first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for hands-off convenience.

Inline ‘Avoid This Mistake’ Tips:

• Don’t forget to break up the ground beef very finely; this is key to achieving the authentic thin, delicate texture of Cincinnati chili.
• Don’t skip the simmer time; it’s essential for the unique spice blend to meld, deepen, and fully develop the rich flavor that defines this Cincinnati chili recipe.

Serving Ideas & Best Uses of Cincinnati Chili

Occasions to Enjoy This Hearty Cincinnati Chili Recipe

• Weeknight Warrior: Quick, hearty family dinner.
• Game Day Delight: Unique comfort food for gatherings.
• Office Lunch MVP: High-protein leftovers for a satisfying meal.

Creative Serving Ideas Beyond the Bowl

• Classic Ways: Serve 3-Way, 4-Way (onions), or 5-Way (beans).
• Chili Dogs & Fries: Ladle over hot dogs or fries; my kids love this for a quick dinner!
• Baked Potato Topper: Comforting, customizable meal over a baked potato.

Storage & Reheating Advice

• Refrigerate: Airtight container, 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Portions for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight.
• Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave.

Health & Lifestyle Benefits

Nutritional Impact of This Dish

• High Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and satiety.
• Rich in Spices: Antioxidants from chili powder, cinnamon, cloves.
• Good Source of Fiber: With whole-wheat spaghetti or beans.

Supports Lifestyle Goals

• Easy Healthy Meals: Homemade option, healthier than fast food.
• Budget-Friendly: Cheaper than eating out for family.
• Quick Dinner Ideas: Ideal for busy weeknights.

Time & Money Value

Time Breakdown

• Active Prep Time: ~15-20 minutes.
• Simmer & Cook Time: ~45-60 minutes.
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Cost Per Serving & Budget Tips

• Estimated Cost: Roughly $2.50 – $3.50 per serving.
• Smart Savings: Buy ground beef or turkey in bulk. Utilize pantry staples.

Batch Cooking & Meal Prep Guidance

• Double Recipe: Feed a crowd or stock freezer.
• Sunday Prep: Big batch for quick, healthy meals.

Ingredient Sourcing & Shopping Options

Where to Buy Ingredients for Your Cincinnati Chili Recipe

• Local Groceries: All main components found easily.
• Farmers Market: High-quality local ground beef, fresh onions.
• Online Delivery: Instacart or Amazon Fresh deliver to your door.

When Organic Makes a Difference

• Organic Ground Meat: Peace of mind on animal welfare.
• Organic Tomatoes: Richer, more concentrated flavor profile.

Tie-in Mentions for Convenience & Savings

• Grocery Delivery: Save time with online services.
• Bulk Savings: Purchasing ground meat or spices cuts costs.

Chef Tips & Dietary Adjustments

Cooking Refinements

• Blooming Spices: Toast dry spices in oil to enhance aroma.
• Touch of Vinegar: Small splash of apple cider vinegar brightens flavors.
• Fine Meat Texture: Break beef finely for authentic consistency.

Adjustments for Every Palate

• Kid-Friendly: Reduce chili powder; offer mild toppings like cheese.
• Spice Lovers: Add cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes.

Allergy-Friendly Adaptations

• Nut-Free: Naturally nut-free.
• Dairy-Free: Omit cheese and dairy toppings.
• Egg-Free: Naturally egg-free.

FAQs

Is Cincinnati chili good for meal prep or weight loss?

Yes, this Cincinnati chili recipe is fantastic for meal prep! It’s high in protein, making it satisfying for weight loss goals when portioned appropriately and served with healthy sides like veggies or a small amount of whole grains.

What’s the best substitute for ground beef in Cincinnati chili?

For a lighter option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian or vegan Cincinnati chili recipe, plant-based crumbles are an excellent choice, maintaining a hearty texture.

Can I order Cincinnati chili ingredients from online grocery delivery?

Absolutely! All the ingredients for this Cincinnati chili recipe are common and can be easily found and ordered through popular online grocery delivery services, offering great convenience for busy home cooks.

How long can Cincinnati chili last once cooked?

Cooked Cincinnati chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2-3 months, making it perfect for batch cooking. To reheat, I find a gentle simmer on the stovetop brings out the flavors best.

Why does Cincinnati chili have cinnamon and cocoa?

The unique spice blend, including cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and cocoa powder, gives Cincinnati chili its signature complex, savory-sweet flavor profile, setting it apart from traditional chili and creating its distinctive aroma.

Can I make this Cincinnati chili recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the meat and aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for an easy, hands-off Cincinnati chili recipe. This is a great option for busy days.

You’ve now mastered the art of making a truly delicious and authentic Cincinnati chili recipe! This isn’t just a meal; it’s a versatile, budget-friendly, and convenient way to bring hearty flavor to your family’s table. Don’t wait – pin this amazing recipe for later, or better yet, add the ingredients to your shopping list for next week and savor the comfort!

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