Skyline Chili 3-Way features tender spaghetti topped with a savory blend of Cincinnati-style chili and a generous mound of shredded cheddar cheese, creating a hearty and flavorful classic comfort dish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Medium pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Ladle
- Tongs
- Serving plates/bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Ground beef with a rich blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cocoa powder creates the signature Cincinnati-style chili flavor essential to this dish. Using apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce adds depth and tanginess, while cayenne pepper provides subtle heat that balances the savory profile. Fresh garlic and onion enhance the aroma and texture, making your chili vibrant and appetizing. Be sure to finely grate the cheddar cheese for optimal melting and evenly distributed flavor over the spaghetti and chili layers. Skyline Chili 3-Way from the Skyline Chili copycat menu offers a hearty and authentic taste experience, combining tender spaghetti, savory chili, and sharp cheddar cheese in every bite.
Instructions
- Place large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and water to pot; break up beef with wooden spoon until fine and crumbly.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until beef is browned and onion is soft.
- Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cayenne, cocoa powder, vinegar, Worcestershire, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Bring chili mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, fill medium pot with water; bring to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain spaghetti in colander.
- Grate cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- To serve, use tongs to place spaghetti on serving plates or bowls.
- Ladle chili over spaghetti.
- Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
Substitution
Skyline Chili 3-Way from the Skyline Chili copycat menu combines spaghetti, Cincinnati-style chili, and shredded cheddar cheese to deliver an authentic taste of this regional specialty. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or plant-based meat substitutes can work well without compromising flavor. When fresh cheddar is unavailable, pre-shredded cheese or a mild white cheddar can be used instead. You can adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference. Using a wooden spoon to stir the chili mixture helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Tips
Ensure you continuously break up the ground beef into fine crumbles while cooking to achieve the right texture for the chili. Simmer the chili uncovered to allow flavors to intensify and excess liquid to evaporate, enhancing thickness. Cook spaghetti al dente by following package instructions closely, as overcooking will make your dish soggy. When serving, be sure to grate the cheddar cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor on your Skyline Chili 3-Way.
Nutritions
Skyline Chili 3-Way supplies a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, mainly sourced from ground beef, spaghetti, and cheddar cheese. The ground beef offers high-quality protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc, supporting muscle health and immune function. Spaghetti provides complex carbohydrates that deliver sustained energy, while the cheddar adds calcium and vitamin D, contributing to bone strength. Your meal combines flavorful spices and a moderate amount of fat, making it a satisfying and nutrient-rich comfort food option.
Storage
Store leftover Skyline Chili separately from cooked spaghetti and shredded cheddar cheese in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Refrigerate all components within two hours, and consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. When reheating, warm the chili thoroughly on the stove or microwave, and reheat spaghetti and cheese separately to prevent texture loss and sogginess.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to create a leaner version of Skyline Chili 3-Way without compromising flavor. Instead of traditional spaghetti, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences. For a richer chili, incorporate a splash of dark beer during the simmering stage to deepen the spice profile. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance to customize the dish's spiciness to your liking.
Allergies
Skyline Chili 3-Way contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential gluten from the spaghetti. The ground beef and various spices typically pose low allergy risks, but individuals with specific food sensitivities should check ingredient labels carefully. You should be cautious if you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or any spices included in this recipe to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Skyline Chili 3-Way combines tender spaghetti, savory chili, and a generous topping of shredded cheddar cheese, delivering a unique blend of flavors that create a comforting and satisfying meal. The distinctive chili recipe features a blend of spices and perfect seasoning that sets it apart from traditional chili dishes. People appreciate the balance of textures and rich taste, making it a regional favorite with a loyal following. Trying your hand at a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this beloved culinary experience in your own kitchen, capturing the essence of a classic Cincinnati dish.