1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef
1 rope pepperoni, sliced
2 lg. cloves garlic
1 (1 lb.) can Italian tomatoes
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
1 (12 oz.) can tomato paste
1 (10 3/4 oz.) can tomato soup
1 (4 oz.) can mushroom stems and pieces (optional)
2 tbsp. dried parsley flakes
1 tbsp. Italian seasoning
1 tbsp. oregano
1 tsp. basil
Dash pepper
1 tbsp. sugar (optional)

Cook and stir garlic and ground beef in large skillet until beef is brown. Drain excess fat. Stir in remaining ingredients; cover; simmer 2 to 5 hours, the longer the better. Stir from time to time.

(You may substitute sweet Italian sausage for pepperoni - just 3/4 of a pound and cook with ground beef.)