The Gathered Kind

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or turkey)
• 2 cans kidney beans, drained
• 2 cans black beans, drained
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
• 1 small can tomato paste
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 cups water or beef broth (adjust for thickness)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and ground meat. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
3. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beans.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Pour in broth or water to reach desired consistency.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Simple Variations:

• Kid-Friendly: Skip the spice and add a spoon of brown sugar for sweetness.
• Veggie-Packed: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a can of green chilies or a pinch of cayenne.
• No-Bean Version: Swap the beans for extra meat and veggies.
• Crockpot: Brown the meat first, then throw everything into a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours.

Looking for more cozy family meals like this?
👉 Click here to see all 5 fall recipes that feed a crowd.