Cincinnati chili is a distinctive meat sauce flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and a touch of unsweetened chocolate, simmered for hours and traditionally served over spaghetti or piled on hot dogs with cheese. Its sweet-savory profile sets it apart from standard chili recipes.
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Using a potato masher or wooden spoon, break up the beef until it is finely crumbled. Cook until no longer pink.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and unsweetened chocolate. Stir to combine.
Stir in all the spices: chili powder, salt, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, allspice, and cloves.
Add the bay leaf and stir everything together. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
To serve, ladle the chili over cooked spaghetti and top generously with shredded cheddar cheese. For additional toppings, add diced raw onion and oyster crackers.
Alternatively, serve the chili on hot dogs in buns, topped with cheese and onions.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Cincinnati chili uses warm spices like cinnamon and unsweetened chocolate instead of beans, creating a sweet-savory meat sauce consistency meant for serving over spaghetti or hot dogs rather than as a standalone stew.
The recipe is simmered for hours to develop deep flavor, typically 2–3 hours or longer, allowing spices to fully infuse into the ground beef sauce.
Yes, Cincinnati chili tastes better made a day or two ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Traditionally served over spaghetti or piled high on hot dogs and topped with shredded cheese, onions, and oyster crackers on the side.
Yes, cocoa powder (1 tsp) or espresso powder (1/2 tsp) can replace unsweetened chocolate for depth without the same richness.
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