When it comes to spicy and savory, few cities in America can match the flavor profile of Cincinnati. The Queen City’s iconic chili recipe has been a staple on menus for decades, and its unique blend of spices and beef broth has won over hearts (and stomachs) everywhere. But why stop at just serving it with spaghetti? This classic dish lends itself perfectly to creative twists and innovative recipes that showcase the best of Cincinnati’s spicy spirit.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering variations on traditional Cincinnati chili, from classic combos to veggie-packed alternatives and even sweet treats for those who like a little heat. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the city’s signature dish or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your meal routine, these recipes are sure to get your taste buds dancing.
Classic Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti
This iconic Midwestern dish combines hearty ground beef chili with spaghetti, creating a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to please. This recipe is a simplified take on the original version, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb spaghetti
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, and diced onions 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 chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and red kidney beans; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve spaghetti topped with hot chili and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili with Lentils
This vegetarian twist on the classic Cincinnati chili recipe is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional beef-based chili. By substituting lentils for ground meat, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 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 oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili
Get ready to warm up with this slow-cooked Cincinnati-style chili that’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. This hearty recipe is made with ground beef, beans, and a hint of cinnamon, all simmered together in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped onions, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker with the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite fixings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cincinnati Chili Cheese Dogs
A classic Midwestern twist on traditional hot dogs, Cincinnati-style chili cheese dogs combine the flavors of tangy chili, melted cheddar cheese, and savory mustard for a deliciously bold snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: diced onions, relish, and/or chopped fresh parsley
Cincinnati-Style Chili Recipe:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook hot dogs according to package instructions.
2. Simmer Cincinnati-style chili according to recipe above.
3. Assemble cheese dogs by placing a hot dog on each bun, topping with a spoonful of chili, followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Drizzle yellow mustard over the top and add optional toppings as desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Nachos
Get ready to experience a unique twist on classic nachos with the bold flavors of Cincinnati-style chili! This recipe combines the city’s signature five-way chili with crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (use store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon Cincinnati-style chili over the tortilla chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Add diced yellow onion, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeño pepper on top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Skyline-Inspired Cincinnati Chili Dip
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this creamy, cheesy dip that captures the flavors of Cincinnati’s iconic Skyline Chili. This recipe combines rich chili powder with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for a uniquely delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chili powder
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika; stir well.
4. Fold in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. Gradually add milk, stirring until the mixture is creamy but still holds its shape.
6. Transfer the dip to a baking dish or serving bowl.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the iconic flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the convenience and flavor of stuffed peppers. The result is a satisfying, one-dish meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
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 cup Cincinnati-style chili mix (or homemade equivalent)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chili mix, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chili mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Cincinnati Chili
Experience the flavors of Ohio’s famous chili parlor with this gluten-free version of a classic recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or alternative protein source)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups gluten-free tomato paste
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, tomato paste, water, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with gluten-free Worcestershire sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a unique twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup Cinci-style chili (use your favorite recipe or store-bought)
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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 saucepan, combine chili, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chocolate Cincinnati Chili
Get ready to experience a unique twist on traditional chili with this Spicy Chocolate Cincinnati Chili recipe! This rich and bold dish combines the warmth of cumin, cinnamon, and cocoa powder with the heat of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, water, and chocolate chips. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Baked Potatoes
Take your baked potato game to the next level with this recipe that combines the rich flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with creamy toppings. This easy and satisfying dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1/4 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke the potatoes with a fork several times.
3. Rub the butter on each potato and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While potatoes bake, heat the chili according to package instructions.
6. Once potatoes are done, top each with chili, cheese, sour cream, onions, and bell peppers.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Pizza
This unique pizza combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the classic comfort food, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying meal. With its sweet and tangy sauce, layered toppings, and crispy crust, this pizza is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (ground beef and beans)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread Cincinnati-style chili evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
5. Top with chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole
Get ready to experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili combined with a crispy cornbread topping, all in one delightful casserole. This twist on traditional comfort food is perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Cincinnati-style chili (with ground beef and tomato-based sauce)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chili and frozen corn kernels. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour the chili-corn mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with melted butter until crumbly. Spread evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped scallions over the cornbread topping.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Tater Tot Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with crispy tater tots and melted cheese, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package tater tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 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
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook tater tots according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the tater tots in the bottom. Top with the chili mixture, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Cincinnati-style chili and traditional stuffed shells. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of classic lasagna with the bold, sweet, and tangy taste of Cincinnati chili.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in Cincinnati-style chili and bring to a simmer.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
7. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, then place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Pour the Cincinnati chili mixture over the stuffed shells.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Shepherd’s Pie
A fusion of two comfort food favorites, this Cincinnati-style chili shepherd’s pie combines the rich flavors of chili with the warmth of a classic casserole. This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 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 cooked pasta (such as macaroni or elbow noodles)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chili mixture, and milk in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Quesadillas
This unique recipe combines the bold flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the comforting warmth of quesadillas. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinner parties, these Cincinnati Chili Quesadillas are sure to score big!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 8-10 tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add garlic and chili to the skillet; stir to combine.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Spoon cooked chili mixture onto the cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted; flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Meatball Subs
Experience the unique flavor combination of Cincinnati-style chili and meatballs on a toasted sub roll. This recipe is a twist on traditional subs, adding a hearty and comforting touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 sub rolls
– Provolone cheese, sliced
– Optional: chopped onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Assemble subs by spreading chili on the bottom half of each roll, then adding meatballs and topping with cheese.
5. Place remaining sub roll halves on top to create a sandwich.
6. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Cincinnati chili with these 18 unique recipes. From classic spaghetti dishes to vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili or Cincinnati Chili Cheese Dogs for a comforting twist. Get creative with Skyline-Inspired Cincinnati Chili Dip or Cincinnati Chili Nachos. For a sweet and spicy treat, try Spicy Chocolate Cincinnati Chili. These recipes take the traditional Cincinnati chili flavors to new heights, perfect for any occasion.
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