Brown ground beef in a medium dutch oven or soup pot over medium high heat, crumbling beef with a wooden spoon while it is cooking. Place beef in a colander to drain grease and set aside.
Return dutch oven or pot to burner and add olive oil. Once olive oil is heated, add green pepper, onion and garlic. Saute until vegetables are tender, stirring frequently (about 2-3 minutes).
Add drained beef, beef broth, tomatoes in juices, tomato paste, spices, bay leaves and beans. Stir to combine.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and discard bay leaves.
Top with desired toppings.
