Reviewers say this authentic Cincinnati chili recipe takes just like what you get at Skyline — but it’s easy enough to make in the comfort of your own kitchen!
What Is Cincinnati Chili?
Cincinnati chili (or Cincinnati-style chili) is a meat sauce with Mediterranean-inspired flavors that’s traditionally used to top spaghetti or hot dogs. It’s similar to chili con carne, but it’s different in flavor and texture. It’s also used primarily as a topping, while chili con carne is usually served in a bowl.
Cincinnati Chili Ingredients
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this authentic Cincinnati chili recipe:
- Beef: This Cincinnati chili recipe starts with two pounds of lean ground beef.
- Water: Boil the meat in about a quart of water.
- Onion and garlic: Finely chopped onions and garlic lend bold flavor.
- Tomato sauce: Canned tomato sauce is the perfect rich base.
- Vinegar: Two tablespoons of vinegar bring welcome brightness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce takes the flavor up a notch.
- Chocolate: Unsweetened chocolate is the secret ingredient that adds rich flavor.
- Seasonings: Season the Cincinnati chili with chili powder, salt, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, whole cloves, whole allspice berries, and a bay leaf.
How to Make Cincinnati Chili
You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below – but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you making homemade Cincinnati Chili:
- Cook the beef.
- Mix in the remaining ingredients according to the recipe.
- Simmer for about three hours.
- Serve over spaghetti.
Recipe Tip
Overnight option: After boiling the meat, remove the pan from the heat and let cool. Refrigerate the beef in the pan overnight. The next day, skim the solid fat from the top of the pan and discard. Skimming the fat makes this a healthier version than most, and gives it the right consistency.
How to Serve Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati chili is ordered through the “way” system. The number before the “way” indicates the toppings you’d like. Here are the different “ways” you can have Cincinnati chili at restaurants or at home:
- 2-Way: Chili + spaghetti
- 3-Way: Chili + spaghetti + shredded Cheddar cheese
- 4-Way: Chili + spaghetti + diced onions + shredded Cheddar cheese
- 5-Way: Chili + spaghetti + red kidney beans + diced onions + shredded Cheddar cheese.
How to Store Cincinnati Chili
Store this Cincinnati chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to seven days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can You Freeze Cincinnati Chili?
Yes, you can freeze Cincinnati chili for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
“This recipe is fantastic,” raves betelach. “It's earthy, spicy, and savory all at the same time. I only made one change and that was to use homemade beef stock instead of water.”
“Tastes like the Skyline chili I grew up with,” according to Be Loeb. “I highly recommend that after cooking, you let the finished chili sit in the fridge for at least a day.”
“I admittedly have not had the authentic Skyline Chili in Cincinnati, but I made this tonight and it was delicious,” says Amy Louise. “I think this will also be a great meat sauce to add to chili fries, nachos, etc.”
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
