Description
A Midwest classic made easy in the slow cooker! This Cincinnati chili is a unique spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti with classic “ways” toppings like beans, onions, and plenty of cheddar. Perfectly seasoned, comforting, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Serving and Toppings:
- 1 lb spaghetti, cooked (for serving)
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, kidney beans, oyster crackers
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with onion until crumbled and no longer pink. Drain excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer beef and onion to a slow cooker. Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, spices, and beef broth.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in apple cider vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and remove bay leaf before serving over spaghetti with desired toppings.
Notes
- Authentic Cincinnati chili has a thinner consistency than Texas chili; add extra broth if needed.
- Can be made ahead—flavors develop even more overnight.
- Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Midwestern / American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg