1. Cook the ground beef, onion and garlic in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 8 minutes.

2. Add the beans, tomatoes, chili powder, salt and black pepper and mix well. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 18 minutes.

3. Spoon the chili into soup bowls and sprinkle with the Cheddar. Serve with sour cream, if desired.

Variations
Add 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper with the chili powder. For an even heartier meal, serve the chili over hot cooked spaghetti.

Use this chili in Chili Pie: Spread 2 cups corn chips in a 12 x 9-inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup finely chopped onion and 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar. Cover with chili, then more corn chips and Cheddar. Bake at 350F until bubbly.