Skyline Chili 4-Way features tender spaghetti topped with a unique blend of savory chili, a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of creamy kidney beans, delivering a delicious combination of hearty and cheesy flavors.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Cheese grater
- Ladle
- Mixing spoon
- Serving bowls
- Measuring cups
- Can opener
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) kidney beans
When preparing Skyline Chili 4-Way, choose ground beef with moderate fat content to ensure a rich and flavorful chili base. Use fresh onions and garlic to maximize the depth of flavor, and be precise with the spice measurements, especially the cinnamon, cocoa powder, and allspice, as they create the unique taste profile. Drain and rinse the kidney beans to prevent excess saltiness and maintain the creamy texture that complements the dish. Your cheddar cheese should be freshly shredded rather than pre-packaged for better melting and taste. Skyline Chili 4-Way from the Skyline Chili copycat menu delivers a classic Cincinnati-style dish, layering savory chili over spaghetti and topped with cheese and beans, perfect for replicating authentic flavors at home.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large pot, add ground beef and water; break beef apart with a spoon.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
- Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, allspice, cloves, bay leaf, vinegar, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove bay leaf from chili and discard.
- Use a colander to rinse and drain the kidney beans.
- In a saucepan, warm the kidney beans over low heat.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain using the colander.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- To assemble: Portion spaghetti into serving bowls.
- Ladle chili over the spaghetti.
- Spoon warmed kidney beans over the chili.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Skyline Chili 4-Way from the Skyline Chili copycat menu combines tender spaghetti, chili seasoned with a distinctive spice blend, shredded cheddar cheese, and kidney beans for a rich, flavorful dish. If you can't find kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans make suitable alternatives without compromising the taste. Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter version while preserving texture and protein content. Fresh tomatoes can substitute tomato sauce, but adjust the cooking time to allow for proper blending of flavors. Always taste your chili base before adding cheese to balance seasoning to your preference.
Tips
Ensure you break the ground beef into small pieces as it cooks in the pot to achieve an even texture for your chili. Stir the chili occasionally during the 1-2 hour simmer to prevent it from sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot. Rinsing and warming the kidney beans gently prevents them from becoming too mushy or cold when combined with the hot chili. For optimal flavor and presentation, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving so it melts slightly but retains its richness on top of the dish.
Nutritions
Skyline Chili 4-Way provides a balanced meal with a rich source of protein from 1 pound of ground beef and a full can of kidney beans, both essential for muscle repair and energy. The 12 ounces of spaghetti contribute complex carbohydrates that fuel your body, while 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese add calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Spices such as chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon introduce antioxidants, enhancing the overall nutritional profile. You benefit from a dish that combines hearty protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients tailored for a satisfying and nourishing experience.
Storage
To store your Skyline Chili 4-Way, cool the chili and spaghetti separately before transferring them to airtight containers. Keep the chili refrigerated for up to 3-4 days and the cooked spaghetti for 2-3 days, ensuring the kidney beans and shredded cheddar cheese are also stored in sealed containers to maintain freshness. When reheating, use a saucepan for the chili and kidney beans, and briefly warm the spaghetti to retain texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to create a lighter version of Skyline Chili 4-Way. Replace kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different texture or flavor. Swap cheddar cheese with a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella for a creamier, milder taste. If you want to customize your spice level, adjust the amount of chili powder and cinnamon based on your heat preference without altering the core flavor profile.
Allergies
Skyline Chili 4-Way contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and possible traces of gluten from the spaghetti. The dish also includes kidney beans, which may trigger legume allergies in sensitive individuals. You should carefully check ingredient labels and consider any personal allergies before consuming this meal.
Why this recipe?
Skyline Chili 4-Way combines tender spaghetti, signature chili, finely shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onions, creating a rich blend of savory and tangy flavors that appeal to many. The unique recipe, made with a secret blend of spices and a hot sauce kick, sets it apart from typical chili dishes. Trying to recreate this iconic Cincinnati favorite at home allows you to capture the authentic taste while customizing ingredients to your preference. Replicating Skyline Chili 4-Way is worth the effort for those seeking a delicious, hearty meal with a regional twist worthy of sharing with friends and family.