Step 1

2In a large skillet cook ground beef, onion and garlic until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a 3-1/2- or 4-quart slow cooker combine vegetable juice, ketchup, water, sugar substitute, jalapeno peppers (if desired), mustard, chili powder and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in meat mixture.

Step 3

Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 6 to 8 hours or on high-heat setting for 3 to 4 hours. Spoon meat mixture onto bun halves. If desired, sprinkle with cheese and serve with sweet pepper strips.