Custrd is out now on the App Store and Google Play — Try it free for 7 days →
Back to recipes

Cincinnati Chili

Spiced ground beef simmered in a thin, aromatic tomato sauce—Cincinnati's signature chili served over spaghetti. Top with shredded cheddar, onion, and beans for the classic "5-way."

Total time
45 min
Servings
4
Calories
520
Protein
38g
Cincinnati Chili
comfortcozyamericanbeeftenderweeknightcomfort-food-nightstew

Ingredients

9 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking up with a spoon, until no pink remains, ~8 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Add diced onion and cook, stirring, until softened, ~4 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, ~60 seconds.

  4. Step 4

    Add chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir constantly for 1 minute until spices darken slightly and release aroma.

  5. Step 5

    Pour in tomato sauce and broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low.

  6. Step 6

    Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens slightly.

  7. Step 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

  8. Step 8

    Cook 1 lb spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and divide among bowls.

  9. Step 9

    Spoon chili over pasta. Top with shredded cheddar, diced onion, and kidney beans if desired. Serve hot.

Tools you’ll need

  • large pot (5–6 quart)
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • cutting board and knife
  • measuring spoons and cups
  • large pasta pot
  • colander

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.