In a soup pot, brown ground beef with onion. Drain fat.
Add all other ingredients to pot. Add enough of the tomato sauce for your desired consistency. I normally use about 3/4 of a can.
Simmer for at least 30 minutes. (If you are pressed for time and can’t simmer for very long, add a pinch or two of sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes.)
Serve with your favorite toppings (sour cream, onion, cheese) OR as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or hot dogs!
**For a meatless version, just add an additional can of beans (I like to use kidney beans when I omit the meat)