01 -
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 -
Add ground beef to the pan. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat with a spoon, until beef is cooked through and finely crumbled.
03 -
Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and brown sugar. Sauté with the beef mixture for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.
04 -
Mix in tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chilies (or plain diced tomatoes), and drained kidney beans. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
05 -
Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over low-medium heat. Let cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens to desired consistency.
06 -
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over grilled hot dogs, fries, baked potatoes, or as a standalone dish with toppings as desired.