That is just one of many variations on the same theme.
I've been using ground turkey instead of beef. I make it several different ways to give it different flavors, I like it that much.
Italian
Szechuan
Indian Garam Masala
Mexican Chili

I make one large pot and use 1 x 20 ounce package of meat and a lot of cabbage and some onion, chopped tomato and carrots. Sometimes mushrooms. It always yields 5-6 servings and gets me through the week without having to cook.