Goulash

Despite its nasty sounding name, this is a delicious dinner.  The kids went nuts over it and all had seconds.  And it was way easy to make.  And healthy.  Score!

• 1 TBS olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1-2 green bell pepper(s), seeded and diced
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 TBS paprika
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 TBS Italian seasoning
• 1 TBS Worcestershire sauce
• 2 TBS tomato paste
• 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
• 2 15 oz cans diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked (We of course chose GF noodles)
• 1 1/2 cups frozen vegetables, or 2 cans mixed veggies
• 2-3 dried chili peppers (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cheese, stirred in at the end (optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.  Add the onions and saute for 5-6 mins, or until starting to soften and turn translucent.  Add the bell pepper and cook for 3-4 mins, stirring often.  Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.  
2. Reduce heat to medium, and add the salt, pepper, and paprika.  Mix well. Add the ground beef to the pot and stir to break apart the meat.  Stir frequently and cook until the meat is browned.
3. Add the Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste.  Mix well to combine.  Stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.  Add the bay leaves, cover, and reduce heat to low.  Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the broth, veggies, and macaroni.  Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to al dente, stirring occasionally.