Almost Authentic Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Satisfy your Cincinnati chili cravings with this adaptable recipe! Inspired by Skyline Chili (but don't tell Nick, he prefers Goldstar!), this version is close enough to home to ease those withdrawal pangs. We've tweaked it for deliciousness, making it perfect for pasta topping and customization. Get ready for a flavorful journey!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 210 mins
Calories 219.2 kcal
Protein 35g
Rating 4.2 (5 Reviews)
Almost Authentic Cincinnati Chili 55

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Almost Authentic Cincinnati Chili

  • 1 quart water
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • Black Pepper
  • Red Pepper
  • Salt
  • Ground Allspice
  • Tomato Paste
  • Cider Vinegar
  • 2 bay leaves

How to Make Almost Authentic Cincinnati Chili

  1. Brown 1 lb ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add 1 quart water to the pot. Stir in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp ground oregano, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste), 1/2 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 2 bay leaves, 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 cup beef broth, and 1/4 cup brown sugar.
  3. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Cover the pot and continue to simmer for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!
  5. Remove bay leaves before serving. Top your favorite pasta with the chili and shredded cheddar cheese.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

38 g

Sugar

9g

Fat

26g

Carbs

1g