🔥 Step 1: Brown the Meat

• Heat a large pot or Dutch oven
• Add ground beef
• Cook until browned, breaking it apart
• Drain excess grease

🧄 Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

• Add onion → cook 4–5 minutes
• Add garlic → cook 1 minute
• Add bell pepper (if using)

👉 This is where deep flavor starts

🍅 Step 3: Add Tomatoes

• Stir in crushed tomatoes + diced tomatoes
• Add tomato paste
• Mix well until fully combined

🫘 Step 4: Add Beans

• Add all drained beans
• Stir everything together

🌶️ Step 5: Season It

• Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, pepper, oregano, cayenne
• Pour in beef broth

👉 Stir well so spices distribute evenly

⏳ Step 6: Slow Simmer (KEY STEP)

• Bring to a gentle boil
• Reduce heat to low
• Simmer 45–90 minutes

👉 Stir occasionally
👉 The longer it cooks, the thicker and richer it gets

🧂 Step 7: Final Adjustments

• Taste and adjust salt
• Add a pinch of sugar if too acidic
• If too thick → add a little broth
• If too thin → simmer longer uncovered

🧀 Serving Ideas (Like Your Dish 🔥)

• Top with shredded cheddar cheese
• Add sour cream
• Serve with:
  • Quesadillas 🌮
  • Cornbread 🍞
  • Tortilla chips

🔥 Pro Tips (Game-Changing)

• Let chili sit 15–20 minutes before serving → thickens naturally
• Tastes even better the next day
• Freeze leftovers — flavor gets deeper over time

💡 Final Result

👉 Thick, chunky chili
👉 Packed with beans and meat
👉 Deep, smoky, rich flavor

Exactly like your big pot 👌🔥