Cincinnati Skyline Chili
A hearty Cincinnati-style chili with warm spices and rich tomato flavors, served over spaghetti with cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Transfer the browned meat and onion to a 4-quart crock-pot.
- Add tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, salt, garlic powder, pepper, chili powder, vinegar, and bay leaves to the crock-pot.
- Cook on low heat, covered, for 4 to 5 hours.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or even substitute with turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version. Adjust the spice level by increasing the chili powder or adding diced jalapeños for heat. This recipe is a fantastic One Pot Dinner (Slow Cooker) option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti for a classic presentation, and top generously with shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, try it as Chilighetti by mixing it directly with the pasta before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cincinnati Skyline Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. The flavors actually improve after a day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cincinnati Skyline Chili contains roughly 113 calories, with 3g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 freeze Cincinnati Skyline Chili?
Yes, you can freeze Cincinnati Skyline Chili. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stove or microwave.
What type of cheese is best to top the chili?
Shredded cheddar cheese is the most popular choice for topping Cincinnati Skyline Chili, as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. You can also try a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian option. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if needed, and adjust the spices to taste to maintain the chili's flavor.
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).