Step 1

Add the olive oil to a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Add the onions and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, while breaking apart with a wooden spoon, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the chili powder, the cumin, the sugar, the tomato paste, the garlic powder, the salt, the pepper, and the cayenne, stirring until the spices are fragrant and the beef is well-coated, about 1 minute.

Step 5

Add the broth, the diced tomatoes and their juices, the beans, and the tomato sauce.

Step 6

Bring the chili mixture to a boil.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Step 8

Gently simmer for 20-25 minutes uncovered, stirring every so often.

Step 9

Serve hot topped with the scallions and the cheddar cheese.