In a large pot over medium high heat, brown the ground beef and the bulk sausage until brown, breaking up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon (approximately 5-6 minutes).
Remove the cooked ground beef and sausage to a clean plate and drain the rendered fat from the pan, leaving just enough fat to coat the bottom of the pan.
Add the onions and the bell peppers to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes or until softened and the vegetables are taking on color.
Add the grated garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the beef and sausage mixture back to the pot and stir to combine.
Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, carrot and brown sugar, if using, to the pot; bring to a simmer.
Cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
Stir in the rice and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste as desired.