Super Simple Chili (A.K.A. Even-people-who-hate-chili-will-love-this Chili)

I hate used to hate chili. I have tried so many chilis, but they were too spicy or too bland, and the beans were always still hard or total mush. I finally realized the only way I was going to get a chili I liked was if I made it myself. I have been serving this up for years and have converted many other chili-haters. Enjoy!

Super Simple Chili
Serves 10 to 16 people, depending on how hungry they are!

What I use:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 4 15oz. cans beans, any kind you like (I use white, black, pink, and pinto)
• 1 29oz. can kidney beans
• 1 29oz. can diced tomatoes
• 1 jar your favorite tomato sauce
• 2 packets taco seasoning mix

How I do it:

1. Brown the ground beef in a pan; drain. Add to slow cooker.

2. Rinse all 5 cans of beans under cold running water and place on top of beef.

3. Add the tomatoes and their juices.

4. Pour the tomato sauce over everything and fill the jar halfway with water.

5. Add the taco seasoning to the jar and shake - don't forget the lid!

6. Pour the taco water into the slow cooker and stir everything until combined.

7. Cook on low for 8 hours. (You could do 3 to 4 hours on high if you are really pressed for time, but it's much better on low for 8.)

This is great for a crowd because it's not spicy. Feel free to leave some chili powder out so people can take it to their favorite heat level.

We serve it up with sour cream, cheese, and cornbread. You could also serve it over mashed potatoes or a split baked potato, or mix it up with pasta for a quick chili mac.

What are your favorite chili toppings?