I’ve found that a hearty bowl of chili over spaghetti is the ultimate weeknight comfort, especially when I make this Cincinnati Chili Recipe with a Cheddar Cascade Over Spaghetti. Just imagine the comforting aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen, leading to that first spoonful of rich, savory chili blanketed under a creamy, generous “Cheddar Cascade” on tender spaghetti. This family-friendly classic promises authentic flavor and satisfying ease, transforming a busy evening into a truly special meal.
Ingredients for Your Classic Cincinnati Chili Recipe
- Core Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) lean ground beef (I prefer 85/15 for flavor)
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups/220g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp/5g)
- 2 tbsp (30g) chili powder (use a mild variety for kids, or a spicier blend if you like heat)
- 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp (1.25g) ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- 15 oz (425g) tomato sauce
- 6 oz (170g) tomato paste
- 4 cups (960ml) beef broth (low-sodium is a great option for health-conscious meals)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) Worcestershire sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free swap)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 lb (450g) uncooked spaghetti (whole wheat spaghetti offers more fiber)
- 2 cups (220g) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated melts best for that perfect “Cheddar Cascade”)
- Optional Add-ins & Smart Swaps to personalize your Cincinnati chili recipe:
- Add a 15 oz (425g) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained, for extra heartiness and fiber.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey (for a leaner, healthier option) or a plant-based crumble.
- Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for varied flavor.
- A dash of unsweetened cocoa powder (1 tsp/5g) can deepen the chili’s color and complexity, a trick I often use.
- Premium/Healthy Variations for this Cincinnati chili recipe:
- Use grass-fed beef or organic ground turkey for higher quality protein.
- Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to meet specific dietary needs.
- Choose low-sodium broth and organic tomato products for a healthier profile.
- Seasonal or Freshness Notes:
- Select firm, fresh yellow onions and plump garlic cloves for the best aromatic base.
- Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts smoother and tastes richer than pre-shredded, enhancing the “Cheddar Cascade.”
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for the Best Cincinnati Chili Recipe
- 1. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or 10-inch skillet, brown 1.5 lbs lean ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
- 2. Build the Flavor Base: Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 cloves minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves; cook for 1 minute until wonderfully fragrant.
- 3. Simmer the Chili: Stir in 15 oz tomato sauce, 6 oz tomato paste, 4 cups beef broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld beautifully and the chili thickens slightly. For a deeper flavor, simmer up to 3 hours. If it looks too thick, splash in 1-2 Tbsp more broth to maintain a perfect consistency.
- 4. Cook the Spaghetti: While the Cincinnati chili simmers, cook 1 lb spaghetti according to package directions until perfectly al dente. Drain well to ensure it doesn’t become watery.
- 5. Assemble and Serve: Ladle a generous portion of hot spaghetti onto plates. Top generously with the rich Cincinnati chili, then shower with a magnificent “Cheddar Cascade” of finely shredded cheddar cheese, watching it melt over the warmth.
- Inline Options for Special Diets:
- Low-Carb: Serve the chili over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed green beans instead of spaghetti for a low-carb meal.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace ground beef with cooked lentils (1.5 cups/300g) or a plant-based ground crumble, and use vegetable broth. Ensure Worcestershire sauce is vegan.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free spaghetti with this Cincinnati chili recipe.
- Brief Troubleshooting Tips:
- Chili too thin? Remove the lid and simmer longer to reduce the liquid, allowing it to thicken.
- Chili too thick? Add a little more beef broth or water, 1/4 cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Flavor not quite right? A pinch more salt, a dash of hot sauce for a kick, or an extra splash of apple cider vinegar can brighten the overall taste.
Cincinnati chili isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting tradition perfect for many occasions. Knowing when to enjoy and how to store this dish ensures you get the most from it.
Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips for Your Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Situations
Perfect for cozy family dinners, effortless weeknights, game day gatherings, and potlucks. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Serving Pairings
Offer more shredded cheddar, diced onions, or oyster crackers. A simple green salad balances the richness. I often set out a ‘topping bar’ so everyone can customize their spaghetti.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store chili in airtight containers for 3-4 days. Keep spaghetti separate.
- Freezer: Chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw then reheat gently, adding broth if needed.
Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of This Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Connect to Diet and Lifestyle Needs
This satisfying, protein-packed Cincinnati chili recipe adapts easily to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any lifestyle seeking easy healthy dinner ideas.
Benefits for Energy, Balance, and Nourishment
- Sustained Energy: Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Balanced Meal: Served with whole wheat spaghetti and tomato sauce, it offers protein, complex carbs, and essential nutrients.
- Comforting Nourishment: This warm, hearty dish is the ultimate comfort food, providing physical and mental well-being. It’s great for quick meal prep recipes.
How This Cincinnati Chili Recipe Matches Everyday Goals
Link to Reader Needs
This Cincinnati chili recipe simplifies cooking, delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction for busy families.
Convenience
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients.
- Time-Saving: Steps can be done ahead, ideal for quick meal prep.
- One-Pot Potential: The chili itself is largely a one-pot wonder.
Nutrition
- Hearty & Filling: Protein and carbs keep hunger at bay.
- Customizable: Easily adjusted for various diets, including low-carb options.
Versatility
Beyond spaghetti, enjoy this chili recipe over hot dogs, baked potatoes, or in a bowl with crackers.
Pro Tips and Adjustments with Your Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Technique Refinements for Better Flavor/Texture
- Blooming Spices: Sautéing dry spices briefly intensifies their flavor.
- Longer Simmer: Simmering longer deepens and complexes flavors; 2-3 hours is ideal.
- Fine Grate Your Cheese: For the classic “Cheddar Cascade”, grate cheddar finely for smooth melting.
Seasoning and Spice Adjustments for Different Palates
- Mild: Reduce chili powder, or omit cloves.
- Spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Sweeter: A pinch of brown sugar balances tomato acidity.
Allergy-Friendly or Kid-Friendly Modifications
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheddar shreds.
- Kid-Friendly: I often serve spaghetti and chili separately with less cheese, or tone down unique Cincinnati spices for picky eaters.
FAQs about Cincinnati Chili Recipe with a Cheddar Cascade Over Spaghetti
Q: Is Cincinnati chili good for weight loss?
While inherently hearty, you can make this chili recipe lighter by using extra-lean ground turkey, reducing the amount of cheese, and serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional spaghetti. Portion control is also key!
Q: Where to buy quality Cincinnati chili ingredients?
Most local grocery stores carry everything you need for this dish. Look for fresh, lean ground beef, high-quality spices, and a good sharp cheddar cheese for the best authentic results and rich flavor.
Q: Can I use Cincinnati chili in meal prep plans?
Absolutely! This Cincinnati chili recipe is fantastic for meal prep. I always make a large batch of chili on Sundays. You can portion it out and store it with pre-cooked spaghetti or your chosen low-carb alternative for quick, healthy meals all week long.
Q: What makes Cincinnati chili different from regular chili?
The distinct blend of spices, including cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, gives Cincinnati chili its unique, subtly Mediterranean-influenced flavor profile. It’s also traditionally served over spaghetti with a signature “Cheddar Cascade.”
Q: Can I make this chili recipe vegetarian?
Yes, certainly! Replace the ground beef with cooked brown or green lentils, or a plant-based ground crumble for a meat-free option. Ensure your beef broth is swapped for vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
Q: How do I achieve the perfect “Cheddar Cascade”?
The secret to a beautiful Cheddar Cascade with your chili recipe is to use finely shredded cheddar cheese. The smaller shreds melt more evenly and quickly, creating that iconic, luxurious blanket over the hot chili.
Q: What are the “ways” (2-way, 3-way, 4-way, 5-way) to serve Cincinnati chili?
Our recipe describes a 3-way (spaghetti, chili, cheese). A 2-way is just spaghetti and chili. A 4-way adds diced raw onion, and a 5-way includes kidney beans. You can adapt this Cincinnati chili recipe to any of these styles!
Conclusion
Embrace the comfort and deep flavor of this incredible Cincinnati Chili Recipe with a generous Cheddar Cascade Over Spaghetti. It’s an easy, hearty, and satisfying meal for family-friendly dinners, so pin this recipe now for your next cozy meal!
cincinnati chili recipe Cheddar Cascade Over Spaghetti
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
A hearty, comforting Cincinnati chili recipe served over spaghetti, topped with a generous cascade of shredded cheddar cheese. This family-friendly classic promises authentic flavor and satisfying ease for a special weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (85/15)
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp)
- 2 tbsp chili powder (mild or spicier blend)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp ground allspice
- 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium option)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free swap)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 lb uncooked spaghetti (whole wheat option)
- 2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or 10-inch skillet, brown 1.5 lbs lean ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
- Build the Flavor Base: Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 cloves minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 0.5 tsp allspice, 0.25 tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves; cook for 1 minute until wonderfully fragrant.
- Simmer the Chili: Stir in 15 oz tomato sauce, 6 oz tomato paste, 4 cups beef broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld beautifully and the chili thickens slightly. For a deeper flavor, simmer up to 3 hours. If it looks too thick, splash in 1-2 Tbsp more broth to maintain a perfect consistency.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the Cincinnati chili simmers, cook 1 lb spaghetti according to package directions until perfectly al dente. Drain well to ensure it doesn’t become watery.
- Assemble and Serve: Ladle a generous portion of hot spaghetti onto plates. Top generously with the rich Cincinnati chili, then shower with a magnificent (Cheddar Cascade) of finely shredded cheddar cheese, watching it melt over the warmth.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, simmer the chili up to 3 hours. If chili is too thin, remove lid and simmer longer; if too thick, add a little more broth or water, 0.25 cup at a time. Enhance flavor with a pinch more salt, a dash of hot sauce, or an extra splash of apple cider vinegar. Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts smoother and tastes richer. Low-Carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed green beans. Vegetarian/Vegan option: Replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based crumble and use vegetable broth, ensuring Worcestershire sauce is vegan. Gluten-Free option: Use certified gluten-free spaghetti.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups chili over spaghetti
- Calories: 620 calories
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 43 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
Keywords: Cincinnati chili, spaghetti, cheddar cascade, comfort food, weeknight meal, family-friendly, savory, beef, easy recipe