Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti is a fun and tasty dish that mixes spaghetti with a rich, spicy chili. It’s topped with shredded cheese, onions, and a sprinkle of sour cream for a delightful twist!
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and filling. I love how the chili has a sweet and savory flavor, making each bite exciting. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the chili its hearty texture. You can use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or Beyond Meat.
Chili Powder: This is the main spice that gives Cincinnati chili its kick. If you’re low on chili powder, a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper can work as a substitute.
Cinnamon: This might seem unusual for chili, but cinnamon adds a warm sweetness. If you don’t have it, try a pinch of nutmeg, but use less as it’s stronger.
Tomato Sauce: If you want to switch it up, crushed tomatoes or tomato puree can also be used. They add a slightly different texture but will still work great.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings richness to the dish. For a twist, you could use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
How Do I Get the Chili to Taste Just Right?
The secret to a truly flavorful Cincinnati chili is in the simmering. This allows all the spices and ingredients to blend beautifully. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After adding the spices and tomato sauce, let the mixture simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Taste the chili towards the end of cooking. Adjust seasoning—maybe a bit more salt, sugar, or vinegar for balance.
- If the chili becomes too thick while simmering, add a little water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Remember, Cincinnati chili is meant to be a bit on the sweeter side compared to traditional chili, so don’t be afraid to taste and tweak until you get it just how you like it!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (white or green onions)
- Optional: kidney beans or black beans (if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 45 minutes to cook. In total, you should expect to spend about 1 hour. The cooking time allows the chili to develop its rich flavor while you’re boiling the pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, begin by browning the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is no longer pink. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef. Stir and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step adds great flavor!
3. Add the Chili Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato sauce along with the chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, cumin, paprika, cloves, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything together thoroughly to coat the meat well.
4. Season the Chili:
Next, pour in the apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary—everyone has different preferences!
5. Simmer the Chili:
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 30-45 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together beautifully. Be sure to stir occasionally, and if the chili thickens too much, just add a splash of water or broth.
6. Cook the Spaghetti:
While the chili is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside.
7. Serve:
To serve, create a mound of spaghetti on each plate. Spoon a generous amount of the Cincinnati chili over the noodles, ensuring you get plenty of that rich sauce!
8. Add Toppings:
Top your chili spaghetti with your desired amount of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with chopped onions for an extra crunch and flavor.
9. Optional Beans:
If you like, you can also add kidney beans or black beans on top of your chili for added texture and heartiness.
10. Enjoy!
Dig in right away and enjoy this delicious and comforting Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. It will still absorb the flavors of the chili spices, resulting in a delightful dish.
How Can I Make This Vegetarian?
You can easily make this Cincinnati Chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils, diced mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the ingredients you’re using.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti! Store the chili in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti?
This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. You can also serve it with extra toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or even diced avocado to enhance the flavors!
