When it comes to spicy and savory, few cuisines can rival the bold flavors of Cincinnati. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies a dish that’s both familiar and innovative: Cincinnati chili. This iconic recipe has been warming bellies and firing taste buds for generations. With its rich, meaty broth and signature blend of spices, Cincinnati chili is more than just a meal – it’s an experience.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Buckeye State, exploring 25 mouth-watering recipes that put a spicy spin on this beloved classic. From comforting casseroles to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of Cincinnati chili like never before. So grab your apron, fire up your stovetop or slow cooker, and get ready to taste the magic!
Classic Cincinnati Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili that’s a staple of Cincinnati’s culinary scene. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the city’s famous chili culture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30-60 minutes
Vegetarian Cincinnati Chili
This vegetarian take on Cincinnati chili is a flavorful and satisfying twist on the traditional recipe, minus the meat. This rich and comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili
This recipe for Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is a twist on traditional chili recipes, featuring ground beef, pasta, and a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 8 oz macaroni
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the diced onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, water, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the macaroni to the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cincinnati Chili with Spaghetti
This iconic dish from Cincinnati combines hearty spaghetti with a rich, meaty chili that’s been perfected over generations. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped onions, and/or beans
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, water, tomato paste, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer chili for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti. Add your preferred toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Cheese Dogs
Experience the unique flavor of Cincinnati’s iconic chili cheese dogs at home! This recipe combines juicy hot dogs, tangy chili, and melted cheese for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: diced onions, mustard, relish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook hot dogs according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble chili cheese dogs by placing cooked hot dogs in buns, topping with Cincinnati-style chili, and sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add optional toppings as desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with crispy tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for a party or gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) bag of tortilla chips
– 2 cups of Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of diced onions
– 1/4 cup of diced bell peppers
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
3. Spoon Cincinnati-style chili over the tortilla chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and diced onions evenly over the top of the chili.
5. Add diced bell peppers and sliced jalapeño pepper for added flavor and crunch.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the convenience of stuffed peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chili, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with cheddar cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Mac and Cheese
Cincinnati Chili Mac and Cheese: A Creative Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
Combine the rich flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, and you’ll get a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in chili, flour, and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, chili mixture, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese in a baking dish. Mix well.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is coated with cheesy goodness.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Cincinnati Chili Pizza
Get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Cincinnati-style chili pizza recipe! This unique twist on traditional pizza combines the classic flavors of Cincinnati chili with a crispy crust, melted cheese, and savory toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread Cincinnati-style chili evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms on top of the chili.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Baked Potatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the ease and comfort of baked potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, heat the chili according to package instructions.
6. Once the potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and top each half with a spoonful of chili, some shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with a crispy cornbread crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (such as Skyline or Gold Star)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Spoon Cincinnati-style chili over the cornbread batter, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Tater Tot Casserole
This creamy, comforting casserole combines the best of Cincinnati’s famous chili with crispy tater tots and melted cheese. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) bag tater tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook tater tots according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet; stir well.
5. Combine cooked tater tots, chili mixture, and milk in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Sliders
A twist on classic sliders, these Cincinnati-style chili dogs pack a flavorful punch! Ground beef and rich, slow-cooked chili meet toasted buns and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Cheddar cheese slices, for serving
• Optional: diced onions, mustard, or relish for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into small patties.
3. Cook patties until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, toast buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. In a separate pan, combine onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, water, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Assemble sliders by placing cooked patties onto toasted buns, followed by spoonfuls of chili and melted cheddar cheese.
7. Serve immediately and customize with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Quesadillas
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili in a crispy quesadilla. This recipe combines the city’s signature sweet and savory chili with melted cheese, wrapped in a tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup chili powder
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, shredded lettuce
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Place a tortilla in the skillet; sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Spoon about 1/4 cup of chili onto half of the tortilla.
8. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and melted.
10. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes.
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Shells
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this unique take on stuffed shells, combining the flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with tender jumbo shells and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each cooked shell with the chili mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and parsley; bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Lasagna
A classic twist on traditional lasagna, this Cincinnati-style chili lasagna combines the flavors of Ohio’s famous chili with layers of pasta and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and chili to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Spread half of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Arrange four lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce.
7. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
8. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Meatballs
Cincinnati Chili Meatballs: A Twist on a Classic Recipe
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati-style chili in this twist on traditional meatballs. By combining ground beef, pork, and spices with a tangy chili flair, you’ll create a delicious appetizer or main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Cincinnati-style chili (see note)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the Cincinnati-style chili, egg, and breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Form into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Note: Cincinnati-style chili is typically a thinner, sweeter, and more complex flavor profile compared to traditional chili. You can make your own or use store-bought.
Cincinnati Chili Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cincinnati-style chili with the comforting warmth of shepherd’s pie. Perfect for a chilly evening, this twist on the classic dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (or your favorite store-bought or homemade variety)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in canned diced tomatoes and Cincinnati-style chili. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Spread frozen peas and carrots over the top of the chili mixture.
7. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Zucchini
Elevate your dinner game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the best of Cincinnati-style chili with the natural sweetness of zucchini. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook zucchinis according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin; stir well.
5. Stuff each zucchini with the beef mixture, followed by spoonfuls of Cincinnati-style chili.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Tacos
Get ready to experience the unique fusion of Cincinnati-style chili and Mexican cuisine with these mouth-watering tacos!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, water, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning chili onto a warmed tortilla and topping with shredded cheese. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Burritos
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati-style chili wrapped up in a warm tortilla with this recipe for Cincinnati Chili Burritos. This twist on traditional burritos combines the city’s famous chili with crispy tortillas, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Spoon the chili mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese. Fold and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Enchiladas
Experience the unique fusion of Cincinnati’s beloved chili and traditional enchiladas with this mouth-watering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chili (Cincinnati-style, with beans)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, shredded lettuce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili; bring to simmer.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chili mixture onto tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas; sprinkle with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Mushrooms
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s famous chili in a new and delicious way – by stuffing it inside meaty mushrooms! This recipe combines the spices and richness of traditional chili with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms, creating a one-of-a-kind appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent and mixture is well combined.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chili mixture, dividing evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Dip
A classic Ohio Valley favorite, this Cincinnati Chili Dip is a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1 (16 oz) container of sour cream
• 1 cup of Cincinnati-style chili (use your favorite store-bought or homemade recipe)
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh onion
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sour cream and chili. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Sprinkle chopped onion and paprika on top of the dip.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cincinnati Chili Stuffed Bread
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This recipe combines the classic Cincinnati-style chili with soft, buttery bread, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (about 12 inches long)
– 1 cup of Cincinnati-style chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onions
– 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together chili, cheese, onions, and bell peppers.
4. Spread half of the mixture onto the bottom half of the bread.
5. Dot the top with butter.
6. Place the other bread half on top to form a sandwich.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining mixture and bread half.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Conclusion
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these mouth-watering Cincinnati chili recipes! From classic and vegetarian options to creative twists like nachos, pizza, and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make Cincinnati chili mac and cheese, baked potatoes, cornbread casserole, tater tot casserole, sliders, stuffed shells, lasagna, meatballs, shepherd’s pie, and more. With 25 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored with this iconic Midwestern dish. So go ahead and bring the heat with these delicious Cincinnati chili recipes!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
