Before diving into the details of Cincinnati chili spaghetti, let’s explore some delightful pairings. This dish is often considered a main event, but a few carefully chosen sides can elevate your meal to new heights. It goes well with Garlic Bread, Coleslaw and Cornbread etc.
With a family packed around the table and laughter ringing in the air, Cincinnati chili spaghetti has a unique way of bringing everyone together. My first taste of this delightful dish happened during a family reunion in Ohio.
The moment I took my first bite, I was hooked. The vibrant flavors of chili blended with spaghetti create a culinary experience hard to describe. It’s one of those meals where each ingredient works together in perfect harmony, providing comfort and satisfaction.
What sets our version apart? Well, it delivers layers of richness and spice, a nod to its roots while also standing out in its simplicity.
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Why This Recipe Works
1. Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of spices, including chili pepper, cinnamon, and allspice, gives Cincinnati chili its distinctive flavor. The addition of bittersweet chocolate rounds out the taste, creating a savory-sweet experience.
2. Hearty Texture: Ground beef provides a satisfying, meaty richness. Combined with soft spaghetti, it creates a fulfilling plate that leaves you satisfied without feeling overly stuffed.
3. Customizable Toppings: The option to garnish with shredded cheese, beans, diced onions, and even oyster crackers allows everyone to personalize their dish. You can put a unique spin on each serving.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Reheating brings those flavors back to life, just like the first time you made it.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine a rich sauce with warm spices, perfectly paired with tender spaghetti. The first spoonful of sauce coats the pasta, infusing it with a depth that makes each bite feel like a hug. It’s not overly spicy but delivers enough warmth to make your taste buds dance. The hints of sweetness from the chocolate and brown sugar play beautifully against the savory elements. If comfort were a dish, this would surely be a contender.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
Many people enjoy variations of Cincinnati chili. However, this recipe shines due to the extra kick from smoked paprika. It adds a subtle depth that many others overlook. Plus, using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, ensuring vibrant flavors shine through. My version is simple yet layered with taste.
Ingredients
Let’s gather what you need for this flavorful journey:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium onions, finely diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 ounce bittersweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons ground chili pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 16 ounces tomato purée
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Cooked spaghetti for serving
- Shredded cheese, finely chopped dark red kidney beans, extra diced onions, and oyster crackers for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The smell at this point will be quite inviting!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
To the pot, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Mix in Spices
Stir in the ground chili pepper, dried oregano, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. The smell of these spices will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a warm embrace.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Next, add the bittersweet chocolate, chicken stock, tomato purée, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, serve it over a bed of spiced spaghetti. Top with shredded cheese, kidney beans, additional onions, and oyster crackers if you desire.
Notes
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce while it simmers. Adjusting seasoning midway through can make a big difference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Whenever possible, buy high-quality beef and fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Store in airtight containers for a quick meal later.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Sour cream or jalapeños can add an interesting twist.
Nutrition Information
How to Store This Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti
Store any remaining chili in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, use a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to freeze it, ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months frozen.
Sides for Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti
1. Garlic Bread: Pairing this dish with garlic bread turns dinner into a feast. It absorbs just the right amount of sauce and adds a crunchy texture.
2. Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts the warm, rich chili flavors. Add a dash of vinegar or lemon juice for some zing.
3. Cornbread: Light and fluffy cornbread comes with a hint of sweetness. It complements the spicy notes of the chili and rounds out the meal.
Alternatives for Ingredients
1. Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. The flavor remains delightful while cutting back on fat.
2. Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or a veggie crumbles substitute for a meatless version. This still gives you that hearty texture.
3. Chicken Broth: If you prefer a lighter taste, opt for vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
4. Tomato Sauce: If you don’t have tomato purée, you can use crushed tomatoes or even a jarred marinara sauce. Adjust spices as needed.
Cincinnati Chili Spaghetti Recipe With Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium heat
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium onions finely diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 ounce bittersweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons ground chili pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 16 ounces tomato purée
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Cooked spaghetti for serving
- Shredded cheese finely chopped dark red kidney beans, extra diced onions, and oyster crackers for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The smell at this point will be quite inviting!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- To the pot, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Mix in Spices
- Stir in the ground chili pepper, dried oregano, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. The smell of these spices will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a warm embrace.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Next, add the bittersweet chocolate, chicken stock, tomato purée, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the sauce has thickened, serve it over a bed of spiced spaghetti. Top with shredded cheese, kidney beans, additional onions, and oyster crackers if you desire.
Notes
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce while it simmers. Adjusting seasoning midway through can make a big difference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Whenever possible, buy high-quality beef and fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Store in airtight containers for a quick meal later.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Sour cream or jalapeños can add an interesting twist.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Cincinnati chili served with spaghetti?
Yes, Cincinnati chili is traditionally served over a bed of spaghetti. This combination is unique to Cincinnati-style chili.
Q2: What are the “five-way” toppings?
Five-way Cincinnati chili includes: spaghetti, chili, diced onions, shredded cheese, and kidney beans. It’s a popular way to enjoy this dish.
Q3: Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely. Ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based substitute can work! Just keep an eye on cooking times.
Q4: Can I make Cincinnati chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for rich flavors.
Conclusion
Cincinnati chili spaghetti is more than just a meal. It’s an experience packed with flavor and warmth. With the right ingredients and a touch of care, you can create a dish that will make any dinner feel special. Whether you stick to tradition or experiment with new flavors, this meal surely delivers comfort and satisfaction.
Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becoming a regular at your family table. The love for food is universal, and Cincinnati chili spaghetti encapsulates that in every delightful bite. So, gather your family, and let’s create beautiful memories over this incredible dish!
