Hearty Italian Sandwiches

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 1-1/2 pounds bulk Italian sausage
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 large green peppers, sliced
• 2 large sweet red peppers, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 8 sandwich rolls, split and toasted
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese, optional

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, cook beef and sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking both into crumbles; drain. Place a third of the onions and peppers in a 5-qt. slow cooker; top with half the meat mixture. Repeat layers; top with remaining vegetables. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and pepper flakes.
2. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until vegetables are tender. With a slotted spoon, serve about 1 cup of meat and vegetables on each roll. Top with cheese if desired. Use pan juices for dipping if desired.