In a large skillet on medium high, heat oil then saute onion for 2-3 minutes, add garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat
In a 6- quart crockpot add ground beef mixture, bell pepper, petit tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, Italian seasoning and beef broth. Mix all well.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Break the lasagna noodles into bite size on top, mix them in, cover and continue to cook for 30 minutes.
Serve into bowls, top each with a dollop of ricotta cheese, some mozzarella and parmesan cheese if desired.
Garnish top with fresh basil.