Step 1

Heat a large skillet over MED to MED-HIGH heat with a small drizzle of oil.  Add ground beef and onion and cook 5-6 minutes, until beef is cooked through, crumbling as you cook.  Drain meat/onion mixture and return to skillet.

Step 2

Reduce heat to MED-LOW, add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes.  Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, thyme, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.  Stir to combine well.

Step 3

Spoon meat mixture into lightly greased 6 quart slow cooker.  Top with broken spaghetti and stir together.  Top with shredded cheese, cover and cook on LOW 4 hours.

Step 4

Serve garnished with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.