Spicy Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce

Spicy Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce (Serves six to eight people)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes

• 2 cans (15 oz.) tomato sauce

• 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste

• 1 tbsp. dried basil

• 1 tbsp. dried oregano

• 1 tsp. smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper

• 1 tsp. salt

• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Add the onion and garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, red wine (if using), and olive oil. Stir well to combine.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Serve the spaghetti sauce hot over your favorite pasta, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley.