This ultimate regional comfort food completely divides the internet. Ohio locals swear that drowning a plate of spaghetti in chili and a mountain of cheddar cheese is absolute heaven. Everyone else says it is a crime against pasta. Defend your side!
The first time I cooked this for my family, everyone was a bit skeptical about putting sweet, warm spiced chili over classic spaghetti. But from the very first forkful, all doubts vanished. The richness of the slow-cooked beef blends seamlessly with subtle hints of cinnamon, cumin, and cocoa, creating a deeply cozy flavor profile. When that warm chili hits the bed of hot pasta, melting a massive, fluffy mountain of sharp cheddar cheese over the top, the result is pure magic. It is bold, incredibly comforting, and turned our routine family dinner into an unforgettable feast that my kids now request every single weekend. Trust me, one taste of this savory perfection and you will completely understand the hype!
Easy Cincinnati Chili (American Style)
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- The Meat & Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- The Essential American Spices:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- 1/2 lb spaghetti
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced onion & canned kidney beans (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Meat & Water: In a pot, mix the raw ground beef with cold water using a whisk until smooth, then set over medium heat.
- Add Spices & Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, cocoa powder, vinegar, and all the spices (chili powder, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper).
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then lower heat and cook uncovered for 35–40 minutes until thick and fragrant.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chili directly over warm spaghetti and pile high with shredded cheddar cheese.