Cincinnati-style chili has gained a reputation for being one of the most unique and delicious regional cuisines in the United States. The classic recipe typically consists of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices served over a bed of spaghetti, but this beloved dish can be easily elevated with creative twists and variations. In this article, we’ll explore 18 spicy Cincinnati chili recipes that put a new spin on this beloved comfort food.
From vegetarian options to meat-based dishes and even sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with a range of innovative and mouth-watering ideas to spice up your chili game. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a party, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti
This iconic dish combines tender spaghetti with a rich, meaty chili that’s simmered to perfection. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, mustard, and/or grated cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-30 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti. Top with optional ingredients of your choice.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili with Lentils
A flavorful twist on the classic Cincinnati-style chili, this vegetarian version substitutes lentils for ground beef and adds a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring 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 over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering, this classic chili is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and spices to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cincinnati Chili Cheese Dogs
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this classic Cincinnati-style chili cheese dogs recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound hot dogs
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (or similar)
– 4 slices of American cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: onions, mustard, relish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the hot dogs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until slightly charred and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns by placing them on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the chili cheese dogs by placing a grilled hot dog on each bun, followed by a spoonful of Cincinnati-style chili.
5. Top with American cheese slices, allowing them to melt slightly.
6. Add any desired toppings (onions, mustard, relish).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Dip with Cream Cheese
This classic Ohio-inspired dip combines the flavors of Cincinnati chili with a tangy cream cheese base, perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies for a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the Cincinnati chili, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and cumin. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Skyline-Inspired Cincinnati Chili
Experience the classic flavors of Cincinnati’s beloved Skyline Chili with this simple recipe that captures the essence of this iconic dish. This hearty, comforting chili is a staple of the city’s culinary scene.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: spaghetti, Fritos, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add water, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Peppers
Experience the flavors of Cincinnati with this unique twist on traditional stuffed peppers. A sweet and spicy blend of chili, cheese, and bell peppers will become your new go-to comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (ground beef, tomato-based, and spices)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chili, cheese, onion, and parsley.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chili mixture, filling to the top.
5. Spray or drizzle a little oil on the peppers to prevent sticking.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Cincinnati Chili
This recipe takes the traditional flavors of Cincinnati-style chili and adapts them to be gluten-free, making it accessible to everyone. With a rich, thick broth and a sweet and tangy flavor profile, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
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) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and gluten-free flour. Stir to combine.
5. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Nachos
Experience the flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili in a whole new way with these innovative nachos. This recipe combines the city’s signature style of chili with crunchy tortilla chips and melted cheese for a snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili seasoning (or substitute with ground cumin and paprika)
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and salt.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spoon chili mixture evenly over the chips.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven; add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Mac and Cheese
Experience the bold flavors of Cincinnati’s signature dish with this comforting macaroni and cheese recipe, featuring a rich and tangy chili twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, chili sauce, and cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chocolate Cincinnati Chili
Experience the unique fusion of spicy heat and rich chocolatey flavor with this bold take on traditional Cincinnati chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chocolate chips, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Baked Potatoes
Elevate your baked potato game with the unique flavors of Cincinnati-style chili, a hearty and satisfying twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– Sour cream, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, heat the Cincinnati-style chili according to package instructions.
5. Once the potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and top each with a spoonful of heated chili, shredded cheese, diced onions, and bell peppers.
6. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired for extra richness.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Pizza with Cheddar
This recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the comfort of pizza, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a unique dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups cooked ground beef and tomato-based chili (Cincinnati style)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread chili evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/4 inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
5. Top with chopped onion and bell pepper.
6. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey Cincinnati Chili with Kidney Beans
This hearty, comforting chili recipe combines the flavors of Turkey Cincinnati-style chili with the addition of kidney beans, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. With its rich tomato-based broth and tender ground turkey, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of onions, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole: A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with a crispy cornbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. Add buttermilk, oil, and 1/4 cup shredded cheese; stir until just combined.
4. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread cooked chili over crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of chili.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and chili is hot.
Cincinnati Chili Tater Tot Bake
Cincinnati Chili Tater Tot Bake: A Hearty Twist on Classic Comfort Food!
This recipe combines the iconic flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese, creating a satisfying casserole perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of tater tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook tater tots according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked tater tots with the chili mixture; transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this unique twist on classic stuffed bell peppers. By combining the spices and richness of Cincinnati-style chili with tender bell peppers, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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 over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in chili, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the chili mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cincinnati Chili with a Kick of Coffee
Get ready to spice up your chili game with this unique twist on the classic Cincinnati-style dish! A cup of freshly brewed coffee adds depth and richness to the rich, meaty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the canned tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the brewed coffee and stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Cincinnati chili gets a flavorful twist with these 18 spicy recipes. From classic spaghetti dishes to vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Discover new ways to enjoy this beloved regional cuisine, including cheesy dogs, creamy dips, and savory stuffed peppers. Spice things up with coffee-infused chili or indulge in decadent chocolate variations. Whether you’re a Cincinnati native or just a chili lover, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
