Classic Ohio Turkey Chili Recipe

Ohio Turkey Chili is inspired by Cincinnati-style chili, a regional dish known for its unique blend of warm spices and its signature serving style—over a bed of spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese. This lighter version swaps traditional beef for lean ground turkey while keeping the bold flavors intact.

The combination of cinnamon, allspice, cocoa, and savory spices creates a rich chili that’s both comforting and distinctive.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound ground turkey (80% lean)

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped

• 12 ounces spaghetti

• 8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese

• Thinly sliced green onions, for topping (optional)

How to Make Ohio Turkey Chili

1. Cook the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.

Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6 minutes.

2. Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey along with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until browned.

3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in:

• Tomato paste

• Chili powder

• Paprika

• Allspice

• Cinnamon

• Coriander

• Cumin

• Cloves

Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors of the spices.

4. Simmer the Chili

Add the diced tomatoes and 1½ cups of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Let the chili cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to reduce slightly.

5. Add the Finishing Ingredients

Stir in:

• Cider vinegar

• Worcestershire sauce

• Finely chopped unsweetened chocolate

Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, until the chili thickens and the flavors blend. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

6. Cook the Spaghetti

While the chili simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, then drain.

7. Assemble the Dish

Place cooked spaghetti on serving plates and top with a generous portion of chili.

Finish with:

• Shredded Cheddar cheese

• Thinly sliced green onions (optional)

Nutrition Highlights

Using ground turkey instead of beef reduces saturated fat while still providing protein.

A serving of lean turkey provides:

• About 26 grams of protein per 3 ounces

• Important nutrients such as vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium

The spices in Cincinnati-style chili also add antioxidants and depth of flavor without extra calories.

Serving Ideas

Ohio-style chili can also be served in several variations:

• 3-way: Spaghetti, chili, and cheese

• 4-way: Add onions or beans

• 5-way: Add both onions and beans

Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

The Bottom Line

Ohio Turkey Chili offers a flavorful twist on classic chili by combining warming spices, rich tomato sauce, and lean turkey. Served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, it’s a comforting dish that reflects the unique culinary traditions of Cincinnati-style chili.

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