How to Make Southwestern Beef and Bean Casserole

What could be easier or more satisfying on a cold fall or winter's evening than a hot and savory casserole of beef, beans, rice and corn served fresh from the oven? Serve this casserole alone or with a salad. Good with a thick slice of warm cornbread too!
Quick and easy on both you and your budget!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (ground turkey may be substituted)
• 1 tablespoon
• 2 cloves garlic chopped fine
• 1 small onion chopped
• 1 fresh bell pepper chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1- 2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1-1 lb can red beans, well drained
• 1 lg can chopped tomatoes- I prefer Hunt's
• 3/4 cup dry rice- uncooked- I prefer brown rice
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/2 to 1 cup grated Cheddar, Colby or Monterey Jack cheese
• green or black olives if desired

1. Heat oil over medium heat in large skillet. Add ground beef and garlic, stirring and cooking until meat is cooked through. Drain off most of the fat.

2. Add onion and green pepper and cook and stir another minute or 2 or until onion begins to to turn transparent. Add remaining ingredients except of cheese and olives.

3. Combine ingredients well. Spoon into a 2-2/12 quart casserole with a lid (or use foil). Cover and bake about 30-35 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven. Uncover and sprinkle with your choice of cheese and olives. Return to oven for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender. Serve!
   This recipe makes 6- 8 servings.. depending on your family's appetites!
   Hope you enjoy!

[40skydiver]

on 4/25/2009 Simple, easy and sounds yummy.