I remember the first time I tried Cincinnati Chili—it was a comforting surprise that felt like a warm hug after a busy day. Over time, I perfected this quick version that’s ready in about 40 minutes and uses smoked beef bacon for a smoky twist. If you love simple, flavorful meals, you’re going to adore this Cincinnati Chili recipe. Jump to Recipe | Jump to Video
Table of Contents
What is Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati Chili is different from traditional Texas chili because it’s thinner and more like a sauce than a stew. What really sets it apart is the unique Mediterranean-inspired spice blend, including cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. It’s famously served over spaghetti, which makes it a one-of-a-kind comfort food you won’t find in most chili recipes.
Why You’ll Love THIS Cincinnati Chili Recipe
- Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses a foolproof method that’s easy for any home cook
- The secret ingredient: smoked beef bacon adds incredible smoky depth
- A unique blend of spices that delivers authentic Cincinnati flavor every time
Key Ingredients for Authentic Cincinnati Chili
This recipe’s magic lies in its spice blend and unique flavor boosters. Cinnamon, allspice, and cloves create that signature Mediterranean-inspired warmth without overpowering heat. Unsweetened chocolate adds a rich depth—not sweetness—balancing the spices perfectly. The star twist here is ground smoked beef bacon, which gives a smoky, savory layer you won’t get with regular beef.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsweetened Chocolate | Cocoa powder | Use a good-quality cocoa powder, no sugar added |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | White vinegar | White vinegar works well if apple cider isn’t available |
| Whole Spices | Pre-ground spices | Pre-ground spices are fine; adjust amounts to taste |
The Secret to Perfect Cincinnati Chili: Don’t Brown the Meat!
Here’s a trick that might seem odd at first: you don’t brown the meat before adding it to the sauce. Instead, you simmer the raw ground smoked beef bacon directly in the chili liquid. This traditional method is key to achieving Cincinnati Chili’s fine texture and tender bite. Don’t worry if it looks a little strange at first—trust the process, it really works!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili (Step-by-Step)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 onions (finely chopped, plus more for topping)
- 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 16 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (packed)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds ground smoked beef bacon
- cooked spaghetti (for serving)
- shredded cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add chocolate, garlic, chili powder, oregano, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves; stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in broth, tomato sauce, vinegar, tomato paste, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir in ground smoked beef bacon and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 20 to 25 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper (I like 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper).
- Serve over cooked spaghetti with toppings such as shredded cheese, beans, onions, and crackers if desired.
The “Ways” Explained: How to Serve Cincinnati Chili Like a Local
Here is a quick guide to the famous Cincinnati “Ways.” Each adds more delicious toppings to the basic chili and spaghetti foundation:
- 2-Way: Chili on spaghetti
- 3-Way: Chili and cheese on spaghetti
- 4-Way: Chili, cheese, and onions OR beans on spaghetti
- 5-Way: Chili, cheese, onions, AND beans on spaghetti
More Ways to Enjoy Your Chili
Cincinnati Chili is also fantastic on hot dogs, famously known as Coney Dogs—topped with mustard and onions. For a fun twist, try it over crispy french fries to make irresistible chili cheese fries.
Tips for the Best Results
- For the Fluffiest Cheese: Finely shred a block of mild cheddar using a box grater; it melts so much better than pre-shredded cheese.
- To Reduce Grease:
- Overnight Chill & Scrape: Refrigerate chili overnight, then skim solidified fat off the top.
- Quick Ladle: Skim off fat with a spoon before serving if you’re in a hurry.
- Develop Deeper Flavor: Make your chili a day ahead to let the flavors meld and develop fully.
Low-Carb & Keto Serving Options
For low-carb or keto diets, skip the spaghetti! Serve your Cincinnati Chili over zucchini noodles (zoodles), roasted spaghetti squash, or steamed cauliflower rice for a delicious, gluten-free meal.
Troubleshooting Common Cincinnati Chili Issues
- My chili is too greasy: Use the de-fatting tips above for a leaner texture.
- My chili is too watery or too thick: Simmer longer to thicken; if too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
- The flavor seems muted: The chili’s flavor deepens overnight. If serving right away, add a pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar to brighten it.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover chili in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, cool completely before packing into airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve flavor and texture.
Cincinnati Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high; sauté onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chocolate, garlic, and spices; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add broth, tomato sauce, vinegar, tomato paste, brown sugar, and Worcestershire.
- Add ground smoked beef bacon, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook 20–25 minutes until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with cheese, beans, onions, and crackers as desired.
Notes
– Blooming the spices briefly in oil deepens flavor; avoid burning by stirring constantly.
– Simmer longer for a thicker, richer sauce or add a splash of broth to loosen if needed.
– If substituting regular ground beef, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to compensate for less salt than smoked bacon.
– Make-ahead: Chili improves overnight. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
– To serve gluten-free, use GF spaghetti and confirm Worcestershire and crackers are GF.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of spaghetti is best?
Traditional thin spaghetti works best, but choose your favorite brand or gluten-free option if needed.
Can I halve this recipe?
Yes, you can halve the ingredients easily for smaller servings.
What’s the difference between Skyline and Gold Star chili?
Both are popular Cincinnati chili brands with slightly different spice blends and flavor profiles—the secret is in the subtle seasoning variations.
What kind of oyster crackers should I use?
Plain, buttery oyster crackers work best—they add a nice crunch that balances the smooth chili sauce.
Conclusion
I’m so excited for you to try this easy, delicious Cincinnati Chili recipe. It’s comforting, fast, and full of flavor with that unique smoky twist you’ll love. I can’t wait to hear your favorite “Way” to enjoy it—drop a comment below, ask me anything.
