Sausage Bean Soup

1 pound bulk Italian sausage -- or

Kielbasa -- cut into pieces 1/2 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic -- minced

1 teaspoon dried basil leaves

1 16 oz can whole tomatoes -- undrained, chopped

1 14.5 oz can beef broth

1 15 oz can black beans -- undrained

1 15 oz can butter beans -- undrained

grated Parmesan cheese -- garnish

In a skillet, brown sausage, onion, and garlic. Drain fat. Transfer to Crock- Pot. Stir in remaining ingredients except for the Parmesan cheee. Cover and c ook on Low 6 to 8 hours or on High 3 to 4 hours. Ladle into bowls and top serv ings with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serves 6