Easy Chili (3-Way Cincinnati Style)

Hearty, meaty chili gets a fun twist when it’s served over spaghetti and topped with a mound of shredded cheddar. This is Midwestern comfort food at its best!

If you’ve never had Cincinnati-style chili, sugar, you’re in for a treat! Unlike traditional chili, this rich, spiced, and slightly sweet version is served over spaghetti and piled high with melty cheddar cheese—aka a “3-Way.” It’s easy, cozy, and full of bold flavor. Whether you’re a Cincinnati native or just looking for a new way to enjoy chili night, this dish is pure comfort food magic!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice (optional but adds great depth!)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (adjust for sweetness to taste)
• 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for serving!)

Supplies Needed

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Large pot for cooking spaghetti

Instructions

Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.

Sauté the Aromatics
Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

Build the Chili Base
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.

Spice It Up
Add cocoa powder, chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, allspice, cloves, and brown sugar. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Simmer to Perfection
Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Cook the Spaghetti
While the chili simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the 3-Way
Divide the spaghetti between serving plates. Ladle a generous portion of chili over the top, then pile on a mound of shredded cheddar cheese.

Serve & Enjoy
Dig in while it’s hot and experience the magic of Cincinnati chili!

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: Freeze the chili (without spaghetti) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and serve fresh over pasta.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Even Better the Next Day: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!
Cincinnati Chili Secret: Let the chili simmer uncovered so it thickens and the flavors concentrate.
Spaghetti Swap: Try angel hair pasta or even buttered rice for a different twist!

Variations

4-Way Chili: Add diced onions or kidney beans for extra texture and flavor.
5-Way Chili: Go all-in by adding both onions and beans!
Skyline-Style Chili Dogs: Skip the spaghetti and serve this chili over hot dogs with a cheesy topping.

FAQ

What makes Cincinnati chili different from regular chili?
Cincinnati chili has a unique blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves and is served over spaghetti instead of eaten plain.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yep! Brown the beef first, then toss everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Do I have to use cocoa powder?
You don’t have to, but it adds a subtle richness that makes Cincinnati chili extra special.

This Easy Chili (3-Way Cincinnati Style) is bold, hearty, and unlike any chili you’ve ever had before! Whether you’re serving it traditional-style over spaghetti or turning it into a chili dog, this Midwestern classic is a must-try. Grab a fork and get ready for a new family favorite!

Disclosure: Y’all, this post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Keeps the chili simmerin’ and the cheese meltin’—thank ya kindly!