Sausage and Bean Goulash

This is a hearty and yummy and perfect for a lunch or dinner!  I changed this recipe quite a bit from the original to make it stretch for our family.  If you don't have time do use the dried beans, just stir in canned white beans at the end of cooking time.  You can't go wrong with this combination! -Kristin

1 pound ground pork bulk sausage

1 cup dried white beans, cooked according to package directions

1 medium onion, diced

3 medium carrot, diced

2-3 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes

8-9 cups chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon ground thyme

1 bay leaf

salt and pepper to taste 

2-3 cups ditalini pasta, or any small pasta

1/3-1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 

• Cook sausage.  Drain and rinse sausage and set aside.
• Heat 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil and saute the onion and carrot for about 5 minutes.
• Add the garlic and saute another minute.
• Add remaining ingredients except the Parmesan cheese.
• Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cover. 
• Cook until noodles are tender.  About 30 minutes.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust the salt and pepper.