Pizza in a Pot

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 1/2 ounce) can chili beans
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (2 1/4 ounce) can sliced ripe olives, drained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon quick-cooking tapioca
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• Hot cooked pasta
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until no longer pink; drain.
2. Transfer to a slow cooker.
3. Add the next 13 ingredients; mix well.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 9 hours or until slightly thickened.
5. Discard bay leaf. Stir before serving over pasta.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese if desired.