Go Back
–+ servings
Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnati Chili Made Easy: Try This Skyline Copycat Recipe

Cincinnati Chili is a unique and comforting dish, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 2 pounds Lean Ground Beef Use 85-90% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and richness.
  • 1 cup Chopped Yellow Onion Adds a natural sweetness; feel free to add more for serving!
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Provides a juicy base, balancing moisture and acidity.
  • 15 ounces Canned Tomato Sauce Thickens up the dish while enhancing the tomato flavor.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Boosts the flavor; adjust for desired consistency.
  • 1 ounce Unsweetened Chocolate Key ingredient that adds unique richness.
  • 3 tablespoons Chili Powder Infuses warmth and spice.
  • 4 cloves Minced Garlic Elevates the dish with aromatic depth.
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika Lends mild sweetness and a vibrant color.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Light Brown Sugar Adds a touch of sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Deepens umami notes.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for that signature taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for those who like extra heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Introduces an earthy depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Allspice Adds warm, aromatic flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Enhances richness.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For Serving
  • 1 pound Cooked Spaghetti Traditional base for serving Cincinnati chili.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Optional, but adds a delightful richness.
  • 1 cup Cooked Beans Add for extra heartiness and texture.

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cincinnati Chili
  1. In a 6-quart slow cooker, crumble the 85-90% lean ground beef using a spatula. This step should take about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped yellow onion, diced tomatoes, canned tomato sauce, beef broth, and unsweetened chocolate into the slow cooker with the ground beef.
  3. Sprinkle in all the spices, including chili powder, minced garlic, paprika, cocoa powder, light brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, cayenne, cumin, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring the chocolate and spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW, allowing the chili to cook for 6-8 hours.
  6. Check the texture of your Cincinnati chili. It should be thick and hearty. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it cook a bit longer with the lid off.
  7. After cooking, ladle the Cincinnati chili over cooked spaghetti for a traditional serving. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and optional cooked beans if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enjoy the delightful blend of spices as they come together in your slow cooker. This dish is a comforting experience, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!