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Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili Recipe - Easy Comfort Food Recipes

If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat. It’s not just a meal; it's an adventure in taste. Growing up, every family gathering was wrapped around bowls of this unique dish, and every bite was a conversation starter. 
While wandering through varying chili recipes, I discovered how to recreate this beloved dish in a way that not only satisfies cravings but also brings the family together.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 262
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup of bold chili seasoning blend
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon white granulated sugar
  • 6 One oz can of rich tomato concentrate
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 oz unsweetened dark chocolate
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground clove powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon aromatic allspice
  • 1 teaspoon dried garlic granules
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 5 cups of fresh water
  • 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 1/4 pounds of lean ground beef

Method
 

  1. Let’s get cooking! Here’s how you can turn these ingredients into a mouthwatering bowl of Copycat Skyline Cincinnati Chili.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices
  1. To the browned beef, add the chili seasoning blend, crushed red chili flakes, smoked paprika, black pepper, ground cinnamon, and sugar. Stir well to coat the beef with the spices. The aroma will fill your kitchen at this point and get your taste buds tingling.
Step 3: Incorporate the Liquid Ingredients
  1. Pour in the tomato concentrate, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine everything. Then, add the unsweetened dark chocolate, ground clove powder, allspice, garlic granules, cumin, sea salt, and fresh water. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
  1. After simmering, taste your chili. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you want more heat, add more crushed chili flakes. If it’s a bit too spicy, a touch more sugar can help balance it.
Step 6: Serve Warm
  1. If you’re serving it Cincinnati-style, spoon the chili over cooked spaghetti or serve it with hot dogs. Don’t forget the topping of shredded cheese—preferably cheddar. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opting for a leaner cut will keep your chili from becoming greasy.
  • Simmer Longer for Depth: Allowing the chili to simmer longer will enhance the flavors significantly.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Try sour cream, diced onions, or even jalapeños to allow guests to customize their chili.
  • Make It Ahead of Time: This chili tastes even better the next day. Consider making it a day in advance for a meal prep win.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.