Get ready to cozy up to a big bowl of Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili—a true Midwest gem that’s surprisingly easy to make at home! This isn’t your typical chili: it’s a mesmerizing, slightly sweet, cinnamon-and-cocoa-spiced meat sauce, slow cooked to perfection and ladled over tender spaghetti, then crowned with your favorite toppings “Cincinnati style.” Whether you’re a lifelong fan or this is your very first bite, you’re about to discover why Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is one of the most craveable comfort foods to ever grace a dinner table.

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is how it transforms humble pantry staples into something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays a starring role—bringing out depth, warmth, and that unmistakable flavor that makes this chili stand out from all the rest.

Ground beef (or ground turkey): The heart of the chili; opt for lean to keep things from getting greasy, or swap in turkey for a lighter touch.
Large onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and a little bite, melting right into the sauce as it cooks low and slow.
Garlic, minced: For fragrant depth—four cloves may sound bold, but trust the process!
Tomato sauce: The sauce’s backbone, lending richness and body to every spoonful.
Diced tomatoes, undrained: Their juices create a looser, silkier base true to Cincinnati chili’s traditional texture.
Chili powder: Don’t skimp—this is the classic spicy foundation beneath all those unique sweet and savory notes.
Cocoa powder (unsweetened): The secret ingredient! It gives the chili its signature deep flavor and mysterious aroma.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and savoriness that melds with the meat.
Ground cinnamon: Yes—cinnamon! A big part of what sets Cincinnati chili apart.
Ground cumin: For earthy complexity and warmth.
Paprika: Smoky and subtle, it supports the spice blend.
Allspice: Just a bit for peppery, sweet undertones.
Ground cloves: Perfumes the pot—give just a pinch, it goes a long way.
Bay leaf: Bring in that subtle herby note while everything simmers together.
Beef broth: Loosens the sauce while deepening flavor and keeping things classic.
Apple cider vinegar: Added at the end for brightness—it balances out the rich and sweet components.
Salt and black pepper: Taste and season right before serving to get it just right.
Spaghetti, cooked: Not traditional chili, of course—this is what makes it Cincinnati style!
Toppings (shredded cheddar, chopped onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers): The more, the merrier—customize to your “way” for the ultimate bowl.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in your ground beef (or turkey), add that finely diced onion, and cook together until the meat is browned and the onion is softened—about 8–10 minutes. This step isn’t just about cooking the meat, it unlocks extra sweetness from the onion and brings forward the beefy flavor you want in Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat before the next step.

Step 2: Build Flavor in the Slow Cooker

Transfer your browned beef and onion straight into your slow cooker. Now comes the magic: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, chili powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, cinnamon, cumin, paprika, allspice, ground cloves, bay leaf, and beef broth. Give it all a good stir, making sure no spice pockets are hiding. You’ll already be able to smell that unique, slightly sweet and spicy aroma!

Step 3: Set and Forget

Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 6–8 hours, or high for 3–4 hours. This is where the magic of Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili truly happens—the long, slow cook softens the meat to perfection and lets all those intriguing spices meld together. There’s nothing better than coming home to that scent!

Step 4: Brighten and Finish

Once your chili is finished cooking, stir in the apple cider vinegar for a final pop of tangy brightness. Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking, then fish out the bay leaf. Your kitchen will smell completely irresistible.

Step 5: Time to Serve

Spoon that gorgeous, spicy-sweet Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili over freshly cooked spaghetti. Build your favorite “way” by piling on cheddar, onions, beans, and crunchy oyster crackers. It’s fun to let everyone choose their own adventure!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

Garnishes

Garnishing is half the fun with Cincinnati chili! A thick blanket of sharp cheddar is non-negotiable for most locals, but there’s no wrong answer here—pile your bowl high with chopped onions, kidney beans, and a shower of oyster crackers for the full “five-way” experience. Serve all the toppings family-style so everyone can build their perfect bowl.

Side Dishes

While Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is hearty enough to stand alone, it’s easy to turn your meal into a true feast. Fresh baked cornbread or warm garlic bread are fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce. If you want a lighter touch, a zesty green salad brightens up the plate and plays well with all those bold chili spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Skip the spaghetti and ladle your chili over hot dogs for Cincinnati Cheese Coneys—kids’ favorite! Or serve it over crispy oven-roasted potatoes for a Midwestern-meets-comfort-food twist. It’s also fantastic atop fries, rice, or even as a hearty chili mac. However you serve it, Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili makes everyone smile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers store beautifully! Let your Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors get even better overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch one to look forward to. It keeps well for up to four days.

Freezing

This chili is a freezer champion. Divide cooled chili into meal-size portions and seal in freezer bags or containers—make sure to leave a little space for expansion. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months, so you’re never far from a comfort food fix.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm over medium-low heat in a saucepan on the stove. If it’s thickened, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.

FAQs

What makes Cincinnati chili different from classic chili?

Cincinnati chili stands apart thanks to its thinner texture, unique spice blend (including cinnamon, cocoa, and cloves!), and how it’s always served over spaghetti with layers of toppings. It’s more of a Mediterranean-inspired meat sauce than a chunky, Texan-style chili.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit overnight in the fridge allows all the incredible spices to meld together even more. Just reheat and serve for stress-free dinners or easy meal prep.

Is it okay to use turkey instead of beef?

Definitely. Ground turkey makes the chili a bit lighter while still letting those signature spices shine. It’s a delicious swap that’s perfect if you’re looking to change things up!

How spicy is Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili?

This chili is more about aromatic warmth than heat. You get lots of depth from the spices, but it’s not hot or fiery. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne or serve with hot sauce on the side!

Can I serve this gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta or serve the chili over rice for a gluten-free option. Skip the cheese (or use a dairy-free substitute) for a delicious dairy-free bowl.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about gathering around a big pot of Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili—the spices, the toppings, the comfort. If you’ve never tried it “Cincinnati style,” now’s your chance! Make it once, and watch it become a family favorite that’ll bring you back to the table again and again.