SMOKY SPAGHETTI SAUCE

 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed

1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 tsp fresh minced garlic
1 can (28-oz) peeled Italian plum tomatoes
1 can (29-oz) tomato puree
1 chipotle pepper in adobe sauce, diced
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
Hot cooked spaghetti for 8 servings
Chopped fresh basil for garnish, if desired
Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish, if desired

In a large skillet, combine the sausage, beef, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring to crumble, until the meats are cooked through (about 8 minutes). Drain in a colander.

Transfer meat mixture to the slow cooker and add the tomatoes, tomato puree, chipotle pepper, sugar, Italian seasoning and salt; stir to combine. Place lid on cooker and cook on low setting for 5 to 8 hours.

Serve over the hot spaghetti and garnish with the basil and/or Parmesan cheese, as desired.

Note: I have had this recipe for a few years and I don't remember where it originated.