Keys Spaghetti Chili (Large Group Version)

Keys Spaghetti Chili is a bold, island-style twist on classic chili—with a rich blend of spices, a hint of chocolate, and a unique serving style layered over spaghetti. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for feeding a crowd at beach gatherings or laid-back family dinners. 

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes Servings: 10–12 

Ingredients 

- 2 pounds lean ground beef - 1 quart homemade beef stock (or water to cover) - 2 onions, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced 

- Chives for garnish 

- Chopped onions as garnish 

- Add Cheese for garnish on top 

- Add Sour Cream for Garnish on top - 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce - 2 tablespoons vinegar - 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce - 1/2 oz unsweetened chocolate (or 1 tbsp dark cocoa powder) - 1/4 cup chili powder - 1 1/2 teaspoons salt - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (or chipotle powder for smoky heat) - 5 whole cloves - 5 whole allspice berries - 1 bay leaf - Optional: splash of hot sauce, espresso powder, pinch of brown sugar 

- Add Red Kidney Beans if you like 

Directions 

1. In a large pot, place ground beef and cover with cold beef stock or water. Bring to a boil while breaking up the meat with a fork to a fine texture. Simmer until cooked through, about 30 minutes. 2. Stir in onions, garlic, tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and chocolate. 3. Mix in chili powder, salt, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and any optional flavor boosters like hot sauce or brown sugar. 4. Add cloves, allspice berries, and bay leaf. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add extra liquid as needed. 5. Remove bay leaf and whole spices before serving. 6. Serve hot over spaghetti noodles with your preferred toppings. Best made a day ahead for full flavor. 

“Way” System – How to Serve It 

- 2-Way: Chili + spaghetti - 3-Way: Chili + spaghetti + shredded Cheddar cheese - 4-Way: Chili + spaghetti + onions + Cheddar cheese - 5-Way: Chili + spaghetti + kidney beans + onions + Cheddar cheese - Bonus: Serve with oyster crackers or garlic bread on the side 

Flavor Tips & Variations 

- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version. - Add bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. - Refrigerate overnight for easier fat removal and deeper flavor. - Replace chocolate with cocoa powder or enhance with espresso powder. - Boil pasta in the chili broth for added flavor. - This chili is also great on chili fries, nachos, hot dogs, or baked potatoes! 

Storage & Leftover Ideas 

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freeze portions for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.