What I have had is so bland-midwestern.
This recipe is typical. But it seems that something is missing.
Cumin? Some heat?
Aleppo pepper flake, more bacon, maybe some molasses.
I didn’t even know this had a name. I’ve made it all my life but I’d add red pepper and something for a kick. I usually buy some ground spice blend so I’m not sure what exactly the spices are, but they go good in chili too. Also not so much brown sugar, add some molasses.
It needs some diced green bell pepper, diced tomato, and diced celery, cooked with the ground beef and onion. You may peel the tomato or not, as you like it.
Rancho Gordo has some good bean recipes: http://www.ranchogordo.com/html/rg_cook_index.htm