If you’re craving something truly comforting with a little bit of a spicy twist, this Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe is an absolute must-try. Cincinnati chili is unique with its blend of warm spices and a hint of chocolate that transforms it into a rich, flavorful dish that’s so much more than just your typical chili. Using the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to develop deep, layered flavors while you go about your day, and it’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Once you make this, it just might become your go-to chili recipe for cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe is in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each item plays an important role, from the ground beef that provides hearty richness to the chocolate that adds a subtle depth, and the spices that bring warmth and complexity to the dish’s signature flavor profile.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Browning and draining the meat ensures a lean base packed with savory flavor.
- 1 half small onion (finely diced): Adds a sweet aromatic foundation without overpowering the chili.
- 1 cup water: Helps achieve the perfect consistency and balances the intensity of the spices.
- 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce: Provides a rich, tangy backdrop that ties all flavors together.
- 1/2 oz unsweetened baking chocolate: Adds a subtle, unexpected richness and smoothness to the chili.
- 1/4 cup chili powder: The cornerstone spice that delivers classic chili flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Gives a warm hint of sweetness that is signature to Cincinnati chili.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings depth and savory complexity to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy undertones that balance the brighter spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice: A subtle touch of holiday flavor elevates the chili’s uniqueness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way in adding intriguing aromatic layers.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to give the chili a warming kick.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances all the other seasonings with mild pungency.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Cuts the acidity of the tomato sauce and highlights the chocolate notes.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar: Adds a bright tang that distinguishes Cincinnati chili from other recipes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): Melts wonderfully and adds creamy sharpness.
- Red kidney beans (for topping): Classic chili addition providing texture and heartiness.
- Diced white onion (for topping): Adds crunch and fresh bite as a finishing touch.
- Cooked spaghetti: The traditional base that makes this chili uniquely Cincinnati-style.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by adding your browned and drained ground beef directly into your slow cooker. Next, toss in the finely diced onion and pour in the water and tomato sauce. Now comes the magic: add the unsweetened baking chocolate along with chili powder, cinnamon, garlic powder, cumin, allspice, ground cloves, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, sugar, and finish with vinegar. This combination creates the complex, hearty flavor that defines the Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Give everything a good stir so all those wonderful spices begin to mingle evenly with the meat and tomato base. Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 4 to 6 hours, or if you’re short on time, high for 2 to 4 hours will do the trick. This long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to marry beautifully, and the chili thickens up just right without constant supervision.
Step 3: Serve It Up
The traditional way to enjoy this chili is over a bed of cooked spaghetti, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can also pour it over hot dogs for a fun Cincinnati-style chili dog experience. Whichever way you choose, prepare for a hearty, comforting meal packed with spice and rich flavors that celebrate this beloved regional recipe.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe
Garnishes
One of the best parts of enjoying the Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe is the creative toppings you can add on top. Generous piles of shredded cheddar cheese melt beautifully into the warm chili, while red kidney beans add a creamy texture contrast. Freshly diced white onions bring a crisp bite that brightens each spoonful, making it a fully layered and satisfying experience.
Side Dishes
While the chili and spaghetti form the hearty core, consider pairing this dish with crisp green salads or buttery garlic bread on the side. The freshness of leafy greens provides a pleasant balance to the rich and spicy chili, and soft bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the sauce. These sides round out the meal perfectly without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chili as a topping for baked potatoes or even over rice if you’re looking to change up the carbs. Some people enjoy making layered chili cups with spaghetti, chili, cheese, and onions stacked in individual bowls for a party-friendly presentation. No matter how you serve it, the bold flavors of this Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe will be the star of the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover chili into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, so leftovers taste just as good, if not better, than the day they were made.
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly without burning. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to stir halfway through to keep the textures consistent and delicious.
FAQs
What makes Cincinnati chili different from regular chili?
Cincinnati chili stands out because of its unique blend of spices like cinnamon and cloves, plus the addition of unsweetened chocolate and vinegar. It’s also traditionally served over spaghetti or hot dogs rather than on its own or with beans inside.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used, but keep in mind the flavor may be milder. You might want to adjust the spices slightly to maintain the chili’s characteristic boldness.
Is this recipe very spicy?
This Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the amount of pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning and draining the beef before adding it to the slow cooker improves the texture and flavor by removing excess fat and developing a richer meat taste. It also prevents the chili from becoming greasy.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and freeze it?
Yes! This chili freezes very well, making it perfect for batch cooking. Prepare the chili as directed, cool, and freeze in portions to enjoy a quick homemade meal whenever you want.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly comforting about a bowl of chili simmered slowly to develop rich, complex flavors, and this Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe hits that spot every time. Whether you’re introducing this regional classic to new friends or revisiting a beloved old favorite, it’s sure to bring warmth and smiles at your table. Give it a try and discover just how easy and satisfying homemade Cincinnati chili can be!
Print
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American (Cincinnati)
Description
This Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is a hearty, flavorful chili made with a unique blend of spices including cinnamon, cloves, and unsweetened baking chocolate, slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect served over spaghetti or hot dogs, it’s a classic comfort food with a sweet and savory twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup water
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 oz unsweetened baking chocolate
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Red kidney beans
- Diced white onion
Serving
- Cooked spaghetti
Instructions
- Add ingredients to slow cooker: Place the browned and drained ground beef, finely diced onion, water, tomato sauce, unsweetened baking chocolate, chili powder, cinnamon, garlic powder, cumin, allspice, ground cloves, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, sugar, and vinegar into your slow cooker.
- Mix and cook: Stir all the ingredients together to combine evenly. Cover and cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the Cincinnati chili hot over cooked spaghetti noodles or hot dogs. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, red kidney beans, and diced white onion as desired.
Notes
- Brown the ground beef before adding to the slow cooker to remove excess fat and enhance flavor.
- The unsweetened baking chocolate adds depth and complexity to the chili’s flavor.
- Cooking on low for the full 6 hours will develop richer flavors compared to cooking on high for less time.
- Traditional Cincinnati chili is often served over spaghetti or hot dogs, known as “coneys”.
- You can adjust the level of spice by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
