Brown the ground beef in a saucepan with the minced onion and garlic powder. [If freezing, let cool before adding to labeled plastic freezer baggie or container.]
Drain, if desired.
Add the black beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, and salt and pepper.
Warm the chili for 20-30 minutes over medium heat to allow flavors to mingle and deepen.
Prepare the mashed potatoes and frozen vegetables.
Optional: add a pinchful of shredded cheese to each bowl before serving.
Serve Black Bean Chili with mashed potatoes and veggies.