Slow-Cooker Pizza Dip

Name: Slow-Cooker Pizza Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 20 servings (1/4 cup each).
Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound bulk pork sausage; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup diced green pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 garlic clove, minced; 3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; Hot garlic bread

I created this dip for my daughter's pizza themed birthday party. It was an instant hit and I've continued to bring this along to other gatherings. Everyone loves it! —Stephanie Gates, Waterloo, Iowa

Ingredients

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound bulk pork sausage
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup diced green pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 garlic clove, minced
3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Hot garlic bread

Directions

In a large skillet, cook and crumble beef and sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer meat to a 3-qt. slow cooker. Stir in all remaining ingredients except garlic bread.
Cook, covered, on low until heated through, 2-3 hours. Serve with garlic bread. Freeze option: Freeze cooled dip in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.

Test Kitchen tips

One pound of Italian sausage may be substituted for the 1/2 pound ground beef and 1/2 pound pork sausage.

Try topping this dip with sliced olives, pepperoni, or a shake of grated Parm and dried oregano for even bigger pizza flavor.