"Cincinnati Famous Chili Recipe"
Famous Cincinnati chili with rich tomato flavors, warm spices, and savory beef, perfect for a comforting family meal served over spaghetti and topped with cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pan or skillet; cook the chopped onion with the beef and drain excess grease.
- Place the cooked meat and onions in a large pot or crock-pot.
- Add the tomato sauce, peeled whole tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, salt, pepper, chili powder, white vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves.
- Cook slowly for 4 to 5 hours, covered, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaves and garlic before serving.
- Serve the chili over a bed of spaghetti and top with grated Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a dash of hot sauce for some heat. If you're short on time, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. To enhance the spice mix, try adding a little cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last hour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over a bed of spaghetti, topped with generous amounts of grated Cheddar cheese. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish. For a twist, try serving it with Cocktail Sandwiches for a delightful combination. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings like diced onions or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cincinnati chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Cincinnati Famous Chili Recipe" contains roughly 90 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 944mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cincinnati chili in advance?
Yes, Cincinnati chili can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare the chili, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier version. Each alternative will give the chili a different taste and texture, so choose according to your preference.
Is Cincinnati chili traditionally served with anything?
Yes, Cincinnati chili is traditionally served over spaghetti and often topped with shredded Cheddar cheese, diced onions, and kidney beans. It can also be enjoyed on hot dogs or as a dip with tortilla chips.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).