- 2-3 T olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (approx 1 c)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (approx1 c)
Note - Green bell pepper is traditional but green bell can be strong in flavor. If you're not a fan of green bell pepper try red bell pepper, it is a much milder, sweeter flavor and goes really well with this dish. Or use a combination. Also try out poblano peppers if you like a little more robust flavor.
- 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
Note - Feel free to mix ground beef and Italian sausage here. Adds some depth and flavor to the dish. I like it with 1 1/2 lbs of beef but you be the judge.
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/2 t dried oregano
- 1 t dried basil
- 2 t salt
- 1/2 t crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, see instructions)
- 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked al dente