Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti
Introduction
Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti is a warm and comforting dish that brings a twist to traditional chili. This delightful meal combines a rich and spicy chili sauce served over a bed of tender spaghetti. Perfect for family dinners or easy weeknight meals, it’s a recipe that will get everyone excited at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cincinnati Chili is a fantastic idea for many reasons. First, it’s packed with flavors! The mix of spices, ground beef, and chocolate creates a unique and delicious taste. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, and you can make a big batch to last through the week. This chili is also perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family. It’s a meal that brings people together!
How to Make Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti
To start making this Cincinnati Chili, follow the straightforward recipe below.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water (or half water, half beef broth)
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 oz dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 bay leaf
- Toppings: cooked spaghetti noodles, beans, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, oyster crackers
Directions:
- Combine the water and tomato paste in a large pot. Whisk them together until smooth.
- Crumble the ground beef into the pot, mixing gently with the liquid.
- Add all remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cover and let it cook for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim off any grease that rises to the surface as needed.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
- The next day, skim any solidified grease from the top, reheat, and serve over spaghetti or hot dogs for a tasty meal.
How to Serve Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti
When serving Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti, start by placing a generous scoop of cooked spaghetti on each plate. Ladle the warm chili over the spaghetti and top it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, beans, and oyster crackers. This creates a delicious mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love!
How to Store Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti
To store Cincinnati Chili, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti
- For an extra depth of flavor, use half beef broth and half water instead of just water.
- If you prefer a spicier chili, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Make sure to let the chili refrigerate overnight. This helps the flavors blend beautifully and makes it taste even better!
Variation
You can make Cincinnati Chili vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. This will give you the same great flavors while making it meat-free!
FAQs
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Can I use different meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option if you prefer less fat.
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Is Cincinnati Chili spicy? It has a mild to medium spice level. You can adjust the chili powder to make it spicier if you like!
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Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! You can put all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Cincinnati Chili over Spaghetti with your family and friends!