Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

Spices: Chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, allspice, and cloves give this dish its unique flavor. If you’re out of any, try using a taco seasoning mix instead. You can reduce or skip the cayenne if you prefer less heat.

Kidney Beans: These are optional but add great texture. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans can be substituted. For a low-carb option, you can skip the beans altogether.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is perfect for topping, but feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack or a vegan cheese if desired. Personally, I love a mix of cheeses for extra flavor!

How Do I Make Sure My Chili Has Great Flavor?

The secret to a flavorful Cincinnati chili is in the simmering time. Taking the time to let the chili cook on low heat allows the spices to blend and develop a rich taste.

• Start by browning the beef well; this adds depth to the flavor.
• Add onions and garlic and cook until they’re soft; this boosts the chili’s aroma.
• Once you add the spices, make sure to mix them in thoroughly for even flavor.
• Let everything simmer gently for at least an hour. If you can, simmer longer, stirring occasionally!

How to Make Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti and Toppings:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced onions (for topping)
• Oyster crackers or saltine crackers (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour to cook and let the flavors blend. After simmering, you’ll be ready to serve a delicious Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti for a comforting meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish nice and light.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

To the skillet with the beef, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. This step adds great flavor to the chili!

3. Combine the Sauces:

Next, stir in the can of tomato sauce and the beef broth, making sure everything is mixed well. This forms the base of your chili.

4. Spice It Up:

Add the chili powder, ground cinnamon, cumin, allspice, cloves, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), plus some salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to combine all those mouthwatering spices.

5. Let It Simmer:

Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re adding kidney beans, mix them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

6. Cook the Spaghetti:

While the chili is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you finish the chili.

7. Serve Up Your Dish:

To serve, place a portion of the cooked spaghetti on a plate, then generously spoon some of the Cincinnati chili over the top.

8. Add Toppings:

Sprinkle a good amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili, and top it off with the diced onions for extra crunch and flavor.

9. Enjoy with Crackers (Optional):

If you like, serve your Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti with oyster crackers or saltine crackers on the side for some added texture that complements the dish perfectly.

10. Dig In!

Your Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot and savor every delicious bite!

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative to create a delicious vegetarian version of Cincinnati chili.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture if needed.

What Can I Serve Instead of Spaghetti?

If you want a low-carb alternative to spaghetti, try serving the chili over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Both make great substitutes that still capture the essence of the dish!

Can I Freeze Cincinnati Chili?

Yes! Cincinnati chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!