Prepare the Sauce

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Combine in the Crock Pot: Transfer the cooked meat, onions, and garlic into your Crock Pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in the broth, and stir to combine.
4. Cook the Sauce: Set your Crock Pot to low and let the sauce cook for 6 hours (or 3 hours on high). Stir occasionally if you can, though it’s not essential.

Cook the Spaghetti

1. Add the Noodles: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, break the uncooked spaghetti in half and add it to the Crock Pot, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce. Stir gently to coat the noodles with the sauce.
2. Cook the Pasta: Cover the Crock Pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up.