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Easy Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili: A Midwest Classic You Can Make at Home

Writer's picture: Joao NsitaJoao Nsita

Updated: Jan 16


Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili: An Easy and Flavorful Comfort Dish


If you’ve ever visited Cincinnati, you’ve likely heard of the city’s iconic chili—Skyline Chili. Unlike traditional chili, Cincinnati chili is a unique, spiced meat sauce that’s served over spaghetti or hot dogs, making it a hometown favorite. With its distinctive blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, along with a surprising ingredient—unsweetened chocolate—this chili offers a flavor profile that sets it apart from any other. Whether you’re already a fan or trying it for the first time, this Easy Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili recipe is your ticket to bringing this Midwest classic to your home kitchen.



What Makes Cincinnati Chili So Special?


Cincinnati chili is a culinary curiosity that defies the conventional definition of chili. Unlike most chilis, which are thick and chunky, Cincinnati chili is a smooth, flavorful meat sauce. It’s traditionally served over spaghetti or on top of a hot dog, creating a "coney." You can also enjoy it as a "way" (on spaghetti with various toppings) with cheese, onions, and beans. This versatility and unique flavor make it a beloved dish in the Midwest and beyond.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe


1. Unique Flavor


The combination of spices and unsweetened chocolate gives Cincinnati chili a flavor that’s unlike any other chili you’ve tried. The warmth of cinnamon and cloves, the earthiness of allspice, and the subtle bitterness of chocolate create a complex and satisfying taste.


2. Easy to Make


This recipe comes together in one pot with minimal prep. You don’t need any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook.



3. Perfect for Any Occasion


Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a game-day snack, Cincinnati chili is a versatile dish that’s sure to please. It’s hearty enough for a main course but also works well as a topping or dip.


4. Customizable


Enjoy it over spaghetti for a classic 2-way, on a hot dog for a coney, or in a bowl with your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.


Ingredients

  • 5 cups water: Forms the base of the sauce.

  • 6 oz tomato paste: Adds richness and a hint of sweetness.

  • ½ oz unsweetened baking chocolate: A key ingredient that gives Cincinnati chili its signature depth of flavor.

  • ¼ cup chili powder: Provides the base heat and spiciness.

  • 1 tsp cinnamon, garlic powder, cumin: Essential spices for warmth and flavor.

  • ¼ tsp allspice, ground cloves: Adds complexity to the chili.

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat—adjust to your taste.

  • ⅛ tsp black pepper, ¾ tsp salt: For seasoning.

  • ½ tsp sugar: Balances the acidity from the tomato paste.

  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity.

  • 1 ¼ lb lean ground beef: The star of the show, providing richness to the chili.



Step-by-Step Instructions


Step 1: Prepare the Base


In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in the 5 cups of water. Add the 6 oz of tomato paste and ½ oz of unsweetened chocolate. Stir over medium heat for about 3 minutes until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.


Step 2: Add the Spices


Stir in the ¼ cup chili powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, ¼ tsp allspice, ¼ tsp cloves, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, ⅛ tsp black pepper, ¾ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar, and 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.



Step 3: Incorporate the Beef


Crumble the raw ground beef directly into the pot using your fingers. Then, use a potato masher or fork to break the meat into fine pieces. This step is crucial for achieving the smooth, saucy consistency that Cincinnati chili is known for.


Step 4: Simmer


Bring the chili to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 1 to 1 ½ hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, and the aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen.


Step 5: Serve


Once the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Serve over spaghetti for a classic 2-way, or try it on a hot dog for a coney. Don’t forget the shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and beans if you want to create a 3, 4, or 5-way!



Serving Suggestions

  • 2-Way: Serve the chili over spaghetti.

  • 3-Way: Add shredded cheddar cheese.

  • 4-Way: Add diced onions.

  • 5-Way: Add beans.

  • Coney: Serve the chili on a hot dog with mustard and onions.

  • Chili Dip: Use the chili as a dip for tortilla chips or fries.


Conclusion


This Easy Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili recipe brings the beloved flavors of Cincinnati straight to your home. With its unique blend of spices, unexpected touch of chocolate, and rich meaty base, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a new take on chili. Whether you’re serving it over spaghetti as a 3-way or piling it onto a coney with cheese, this dish is sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, and you can freeze the leftovers for later! Give it a try, and enjoy a piece of Cincinnati’s culinary tradition no matter where you live.





FAQs

Q: What is the best way to serve Cincinnati chili?A: The classic way is over spaghetti as a "2-way," but you can also serve it as a coney (on a hot dog) or in a bowl with oyster crackers and cheese.


Q: Can I freeze Cincinnati chili?A: Yes! Cincinnati chili freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.


Q: Is the chocolate necessary?A: Yes, the unsweetened chocolate is a key ingredient that adds depth and richness to the chili. It’s subtle, but it really enhances the flavor.


Q: What type of cheese should I use?A: Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice. It complements the spices in the chili beautifully, and its bold flavor stands up to the richness of the sauce.


Q: How do I make it less spicy?A: Simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely for a milder chili.


Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe, though the flavor will be slightly different.


Q: What can I serve with Cincinnati chili?A: Traditionally, it’s served with oyster crackers and hot sauce, but it’s also great with fries or baked potatoes for a hearty meal.


Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?A: Yes, after browning the beef, transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.


Q: Do I need to drain the beef?A: No, crumbling the raw beef into the pot and breaking it up as it cooks ensures a smooth, consistent texture in the chili.


Q: Can I double this recipe?A: Definitely! This recipe doubles easily for larger crowds or for meal prepping.



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