Cincinnati Chili (Skyline Chili Copycat)

The Iconic 5-Way Chili You Can Make at Home

Hola! Even though I grew up in sunny Florida, my kitchen has always been filled with flavors from all over the map. The first time I tried Cincinnati Chili, it wasn’t in Ohio but right at home while craving something cozy and deeply spiced.

This Skyline Chili Copycat brings all that Midwest comfort right to your table. It’s rich, aromatic, and just the right kind of unique, thanks to its hint of cocoa, cinnamon, and clove.

Whether you serve it the classic “3-way” over spaghetti or topped “5-way” with beans, onions, and cheddar, this dish delivers heartwarming nostalgia in every bite.

Quick Recipe Overview

| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 2 hours |
| Additional Chill Time: | 8 hours |
| Total Time: | 10 hours 10 minutes |
| Servings: | 6–8 |
| Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Cuisine: | American (Ohio Style) |
| Best Season: | Fall and Winter |

Why You’ll Love This Skyline Copycat

• Authentic Flavor: The perfect blend of spices like cinnamon, cocoa, and cloves captures Cincinnati’s famous chili.
• Rich and Hearty: Thick, meaty, and slightly sweet with layers of depth that keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it 3-way, 4-way, or 5-way for a fun dinner experience.
• Even Better the Next Day: Like all good chili, the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Great for game day, potlucks, or cozy nights in with family.

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Ingredients List

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups water
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons sugar or brown sugar

Ingredient Tips Table

Ingredient	Tip
Ground beef	Use lean beef for less grease and a smoother texture.
Cocoa powder	Adds richness and depth without tasting like chocolate.
Apple cider vinegar	Balances the chili’s sweetness with a slight tang.
Worcestershire sauce	Enhances umami flavor and complexity.
Chili powder	Adjust heat by choosing mild or medium blends.
Cinnamon and cloves	Key to authentic Skyline flavor; don’t skip them.
Bay leaf	Adds subtle aroma, remove before serving.
Tomato paste	Thickens and intensifies the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a large Dutch oven, whisk together water and tomato paste over medium-high heat until smooth.
2. Add the Beef: Crumble the raw ground beef directly into the pot using your fingers to break it apart. Stir to combine.
3. Add the Seasonings: Mix in all remaining ingredients-onion, chili powder, vinegar, Worcestershire, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne, allspice, cloves, garlic, bay leaf, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Simmer Slowly: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Cool and Chill: Remove from heat, let the chili cool, then refrigerate covered overnight. This step helps flavors deepen and makes grease removal easier.
6. Reheat and Serve: The next day, skim off any grease from the top. Warm the chili gently over medium heat before serving.

How to Serve Cincinnati Chili

• 2-Way: Chili over spaghetti noodles.
• 3-Way: Chili, spaghetti, and a heap of grated cheddar cheese.
• 4-Way: Add chopped onions or kidney beans to your 3-way.
• 5-Way: Add both onions and beans for the ultimate Skyline-style experience.
  Top it all with oyster crackers and a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Results

• Chill Overnight: Don’t skip this step! The flavor deepens, and skimming off the fat is easier.
• Don’t Brown the Beef First: The secret to the signature Skyline texture is simmering the raw beef directly in the sauce.
• Go Slow and Low: The long simmering time helps blend the spices and develop the perfect consistency.
• Shred Cheese Fresh: Finely grated cheddar melts perfectly and gives that authentic “Skyline” look.

Serving Ideas

Serve Cincinnati Chili traditionally over spaghetti, or spoon it into a bowl topped with beans, cheese, and crackers. You can also ladle it over hot dogs for homemade coneys. For a complete meal, add a side of Greek salad or coleslaw.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

Prepare this chili the day before for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove over low heat.

Presentation Tips

Serve in wide bowls with generous cheddar cheese on top. Sprinkle with chopped onions or a few kidney beans for color. Add oyster crackers around the rim for a classic touch.

Kitchen Wisdom

• Cincinnati Chili Isn’t Tex-Mex: It’s more like a spiced meat sauce with a sweeter flavor.
• Patience Pays Off: The overnight rest makes all the difference in richness.
• Adjust the Heat: Add or reduce cayenne pepper to your liking.
• Layer Like Skyline: Always start with spaghetti, then chili, cheese, and toppings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can dry the chili.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cincinnati chili different?
It’s spiced with cocoa, cinnamon, and cloves for a slightly sweet, savory flavor unlike any other chili.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours, then chill overnight before serving.

Can I skip the overnight step?
You can, but refrigerating improves the flavor and texture significantly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. It will be lighter but still flavorful with the same spice blend.

What type of noodles should I use?
Use thin spaghetti noodles cooked al dente for the traditional Cincinnati experience.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months in sealed containers.

Nutrition Info

| Serving Size: | 1 portion |
| Calories: | 522 kcal |
| Protein: | 37 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 24 g |
| Fat: | 31 g |
| Fiber: | 4 g |
| Sugar: | 7 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Author’s Note

This Cincinnati Chili (Skyline Chili Copycat) recipe took several tries to perfect, and now it tastes just like the real thing. The combination of cocoa, cinnamon, and chili powder makes it truly special. Whether you grew up in Ohio or are discovering it for the first time, this dish will win your heart with every bite.

From My Kitchen to Yours

If you’re craving the comfort of Skyline but can’t make it to Cincinnati, this copycat recipe brings that signature flavor straight to your kitchen. Cozy, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious, it’s the ultimate cold-weather meal. For dessert, try my Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup -bit pairs beautifully with this hearty chili for a full comfort meal.