Best Easy Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Cincinnati chili seasoned with cinnamon and cocoa served over spaghetti with shredded cheese is a unique Ohio family tradition. This protein-packed regional classic comes in two-way through five-way variations.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 480 kcal
#high protein #comfort food #regional classic
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef 2 lbs
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
  • tomato sauce 2 cups
  • water 2 cups
  • spaghetti 12 oz
  • shredded cheddar cheese 1.5 cups
  • canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed) 1 cups
  • oyster crackers 0.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • chili powder 3 tbsp
  • unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tsp
  • ground cinnamon 1.5 tsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • ground allspice 0.5 tsp
  • ground cloves 0.25 tsp
  • cayenne pepper 0.5 tsp
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
  • ground black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp
  • Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 48 g 40%
Protein 25 g 21%
Fat 20 g 39%
Serving size 315g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    In a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat, crumble ground beef and add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the beef is just losing its pink, about 5 minutes. Do not drain.

  2. 2

    Stir in the chili powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.

  3. 3

    Add tomato sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.

  5. 5

    For serving: To assemble, place cooked spaghetti in bowls, top with hot chili, and finish with kidney beans, a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced raw onion (extra, if desired), and oyster crackers for authentic 'five-way' style.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Cincinnati chili recipe?
Ground beef is the foundational ingredient, providing the hearty base and signature texture of Cincinnati chili. Complementary spices—especially cinnamon and unsweetened cocoa powder—set this chili apart from traditional versions, creating its unique flavor profile.
Q. How do I get the best spice flavor in my chili?
Blooming the spices in hot fat with the beef (Step 2) is essential. Cooking the chili powder, cocoa, and cinnamon with the beef and onions for a couple of minutes before adding liquids releases their full aroma and infuses the dish deeply.
Q. How do I prevent the chili from becoming too thick or dry?
Simmer gently, uncovered, while stirring occasionally (Step 3). Monitor the liquid and add water as necessary—a small splash at a time—to ensure a saucy, pourable consistency without sticking or burning.
Q. What is the nutrition breakdown and can this be considered high protein?
Each serving contains about 480 kcal, with 25g protein (21% of calories), 48g carbs (40%), and 20g fat (39%). This protein level along with beef and cheese makes it a high-protein recipe.
Q. Which topping makes the biggest difference for authentic Cincinnati chili?
A generous topping of sharp shredded cheddar cheese and the five-way assembly with beans, onions, and oyster crackers define classic Cincinnati chili, adding creaminess, crunch, and classic flavor contrast.
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