Cincinnati Chili
Spiced ground beef simmered in a thin, aromatic tomato sauce—Cincinnati's signature chili served over spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar, onion, and beans for the classic "5-way."
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 38g

Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 to taste salt and black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking up with a spoon, until no pink remains, ~8 minutes.
- 2
Add diced onion and cook, stirring, until softened, ~4 minutes.
- 3
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, ~60 seconds.
- 4
Add chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir constantly for 1 minute until spices darken slightly and release aroma.
- 5
Pour in tomato sauce and broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low.
- 6
Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens slightly.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- 8
Cook 1 lb spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and divide among bowls.
- 9
Spoon chili over pasta. Top with shredded cheddar, diced onion, and kidney beans if desired. Serve hot.
Tools you’ll need
- large pot (5–6 quart)
- wooden spoon or spatula
- cutting board and knife
- measuring spoons and cups
- large pasta pot
- colander
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