Quick Cincinnati Spaghetti Chili
This delectable Quick Cincinnati Spaghetti Chili is a comforting twist on traditional chili, combining savory ground beef, rich spices, and sweet baked beans, all served over al dente spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights, this semi-homemade meal comes together in just 30 minutes and will have your family coming back for seconds. With a harmonious blend of warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, a touch of cocoa for depth, and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish will please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy the layered flavors and heartiness of this Cincinnati-inspired chili that’s sure to be a new family favorite!
4
Servings
300
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
spaghetti
12 ounces (uncooked)
olive oil
3.5 tablespoons (divided)
cumin
3/4 teaspoon (ground)
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
allspice
1/8 teaspoon (ground)
cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (ground)
garlic cloves
3 (minced)
tomato paste
3-4 tablespoons
extra lean ground beef
1 pound (uncooked)
baked beans
1 (16 ounce) can (drained or as preferred)
Worcestershire sauce
1.5 teaspoons
red wine
1/3 cup
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot; add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pasta and keep it warm by covering.
2
2. In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the remaining olive oil. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cocoa powder, allspice, cayenne pepper (adjust according to your heat preference), minced garlic, and tomato paste. Sauté the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
3
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook the meat until it is browned and almost fully cooked, which should take about 8 minutes.
4
4. Once the beef is nearly cooked, stir in the can of baked beans, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
5
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6
6. Before serving, taste the chili and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7
7. To serve, place the spaghetti on plates, ladle the chili over the top, and finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
26g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick Cincinnati Spaghetti Chili?
It is a comforting twist on traditional chili that combines ground beef, spices, and baked beans served over spaghetti.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This recipe is designed to be a quick 30-minute meal perfect for weeknights.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the main nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving contains 300 calories, 15g of fat, 26g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
What type of pasta should I use?
You should use 12 ounces of uncooked spaghetti.
Is there a secret ingredient in the spice blend?
Yes, the recipe uses unsweetened cocoa powder and cinnamon to provide a unique depth of flavor.
What kind of meat is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of uncooked extra lean ground beef.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
What type of beans are used?
The recipe uses one 16-ounce can of baked beans, drained or as preferred.
How much olive oil is needed?
You will need 3.5 tablespoons of olive oil, divided for the pasta and the skillet.
What spices are included in the chili?
The spice mix includes cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cocoa powder, allspice, and cayenne pepper.
Does this recipe use fresh garlic?
Yes, it requires 3 cloves of minced garlic.
Is there alcohol in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of red wine to help meld the flavors.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
Tomato paste adds richness and body to the chili sauce.
How long do I cook the spaghetti?
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until it is al dente.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
After draining, coat the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
How long should I sauté the spices and garlic?
Sauté the spice and garlic mixture for 1-2 minutes until fragrant before adding the beef.
How long does it take to brown the ground beef?
It typically takes about 8 minutes to brown the meat and ensure it is almost fully cooked.
What is the simmering time for the chili?
The chili should simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
What is the best cheese for topping?
A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for the topping.
Does the recipe include Worcestershire sauce?
Yes, 1.5 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce are added for savory depth.
Should I use smoked or regular paprika?
This specific recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as a family-friendly comfort food that pleases even picky eaters.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It is a hearty, layered dish with savory beef and sweet beans served over soft spaghetti.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
While the recipe specifies extra lean ground beef, ground turkey could be used as a lean alternative.
Do I need to salt the pasta water?
Yes, the instructions recommend bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
How much tomato paste is used?
The recipe calls for 3 to 4 tablespoons of tomato paste.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of ground cumin.
Is the cocoa powder sweetened?
No, you must use unsweetened cocoa powder for the correct savory flavor profile.
How should I serve the chili?
Place the spaghetti on plates, ladle the chili over the top, and finish with shredded cheddar cheese.