When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke a sense of warmth and coziness like a hearty bowl of Cincinnati chili. This spicy, rich, and satisfying dish has been a staple of Midwestern cuisine for decades, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. In fact, the love for Cincinnati chili is so strong that it’s inspired countless variations, from classic recipes to creative twists that incorporate everything from spaghetti to mac and cheese.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different takes on the classic Cincinnati chili recipe, each one guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling like you’re in the heart of Ohio. From vegetarian options to spicy twists and everything in between, these recipes are sure to become new favorites for comfort food lovers everywhere.
Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti
Get ready for a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion! This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the simplicity of spaghetti, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve the spaghetti topped with the Cincinnati-style chili.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili with Lentils
This hearty, plant-based twist on classic Cincinnati chili serves a crowd while packing protein and flavor. A perfect solution for a chilly evening or a potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili
Get ready to warm up with a hearty, comforting bowl of Cincinnati-style chili that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker; add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, mustard, and/or shredded cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cincinnati Chili Cheese Dogs
Get ready to elevate your hot dog game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili, melted cheese, and crispy buns.
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns, toasted
– Optional: chopped onions, mustard, and relish for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook hot dogs according to package instructions.
3. Meanwhile, combine chili ingredients in a saucepan over low heat; simmer until heated through.
4. Assemble hot dogs by spreading about 1/4 cup of chili on each dog, followed by a sprinkle of cheese.
5. Place dogs on toasted buns and top with additional cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Nachos
A twist on classic nachos, this recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with creamy cheese and crunchy tortilla chips. Perfect for game day or a quick snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can of Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon Cincinnati-style chili over the top of the tortilla chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chili.
5. Add chopped yellow onion and sliced jalapeño pepper on top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Skyline-Inspired Cincinnati Chili Dip
A twist on traditional chili dip, this recipe brings the flavors of Cincinnati’s famous Skyline Chili to your next gathering or party. This creamy, sweet, and spicy dip is sure to be a hit with its unique blend of spices and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 1/4 cup of Skyline Chili powder (or substitute with Cincinnati-style chili mix)
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional: chopped onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, Skyline Chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with sweet bell peppers for a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by a spoonful of Cincinnati-style chili.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gluten-Free Cincinnati Chili
Get ready to warm up with this classic Cincinnati-style chili recipe, adapted to be gluten-free! This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder (gluten-free)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 8 oz elbow macaroni or other pasta for a hearty meal
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: With gluten-free pasta, beans, and onions, or enjoy on its own!
Cincinnati Chili Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of Cincinnati-style chili. The result is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Camp Washington Chili)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chili and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Add the chili mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chocolate Cincinnati Chili
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with a surprising kick of spicy chocolate, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional chili. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their meal routine!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Add kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and chocolate chips; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Baked Potatoes
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s signature chili on a comforting baked potato!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of Cincinnati-style chili
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro, optional
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the Cincinnati-style chili according to package instructions.
6. Once the potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and top each with heated chili, shredded cheese, and dollop of sour cream.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Pizza with Cheddar Cheese
Cincinnati Chili Pizza with Cheddar Cheese: A Twist on a Classic Combination
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of Cincinnati-style chili and cheddar cheese. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices with melted cheddar goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Spoon Cincinnati-style chili over the tomato layer.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro on top of the chili.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey Cincinnati Chili for a Lighter Option
A twist on the classic Cincinnati-style chili, this recipe uses lean turkey and reduces the sodium content without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey breast
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup low-sodium tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve over cooked whole wheat spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole Recipe
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with a warm, crumbly cornbread crust. Perfect for a comforting meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until combined.
3. Press half of the cornbread mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spoon chili over the cornbread crust.
5. Top with remaining cornbread mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese and chopped onion.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional chili and shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Tater Tot Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with crispy tater tots and melted cheese for a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package tater tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili mix (or homemade)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook tater tots according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef and onion until cooked through. Add garlic, chili mix, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and cinnamon; stir to combine.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the tater tots in an even layer. Top with chili mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of tater tots on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over tater tots and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili with Kidney Beans and Cocoa
This recipe brings together the unique flavors of Cincinnati-style chili, featuring kidney beans and a hint of cocoa powder. Perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cocoa powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cocoa powder; cook until the mixture is well combined.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Burritos with Sour Cream
Cincinnati Chili Burritos with Sour Cream Recipe
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s signature dish in a convenient burrito form! This recipe combines classic chili, tangy sour cream, and warm tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef (or alternative protein)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned tomato puree
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• Sour cream, for serving
• Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in tomato puree, water, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning the chili mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of sour cream (and shredded cheese if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Sliders with Mini Buns
Experience the flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili in a convenient and delicious slider form. This recipe combines tender beef, rich chili, and sweet mini buns for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 mini hamburger buns
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Chopped onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form the ground beef into small patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast the mini buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a spoonful of chili and shredded cheese (if using).
5. Top with chopped onions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your comfort food game with these 18 mouth-watering Cincinnati chili recipes! From classic spaghetti dishes to creative twists like nachos and cheese dogs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or looking for a lighter option, this collection has got you covered. With ingredients like lentils, ground beef, and cocoa powder, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the heart of Ohio. So grab your apron and get cooking with these Cincinnati chili recipes that are sure to become new favorites!