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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Cook until mostly browned.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. If there is excess grease, carefully drain it off. Add the garlic and sauté for one more minute until fragrant.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: To your crock pot, add the canned tomatoes (break up whole tomatoes with your hands or a masher), tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
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Add Seasonings & Meat: Stir in the cooked sausage and onion mixture, dried parsley, oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, fennel seed, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Mix everything until well combined.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The sauce is ready when it’s thick, rich, and deeply aromatic.
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Final Seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce. If it’s too acidic, stir in the remaining tablespoon of brown sugar. Season with additional salt if needed.
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Serve: Ladle the hot sauce over your favorite cooked pasta and enjoy!
Notes:
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For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to carefully blend it to your desired consistency before the final seasoning step.
