Mexi Ground Beef-Rice Skillet

This is quite tasty, the jalapeno pepper is only optional I like to add in for extra heat, Italian sausages with the casings removed may be used in place of the ground beef or use ground turkey, I also like to add in some cooked crumbled bacon or smoked dry sliced sausage but that is only optional :)

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  lb ground beef
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 1 -2  tablespoon  fresh minced garlic
• 1  green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 -2  jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 (1 1/4ounce) package  taco seasoning mix (can use more to taste)
• 1 1⁄2 cups chicken broth (can use water)
• 1  small zucchini, diced (about 4 cups)
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can stewed tomatoes
• 1 1⁄2 cups frozen corn or 1 1⁄2 cups peas
• 1 1⁄2 cups  instant Minute Rice
• 1 -2  teaspoon seasoning salt (or to taste)
• 1  teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 2  cups  shredded cheddar cheese, divided (you may use more cheese)

Directions

1. In a medium 4-quart heavy pot over medium heat cook the ground beef or sausage meat with onion, garlic, bell pepper and jalapeno pepper; cook until browned then drain fat.
2. Add in the taco seasoning mix with a wooden spoon until well combined.
3. Add in all remaining ingredients except the cheese; stir with a wooden spoon to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low or low.
4. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with seasoned salt and pepper.
6. Mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted, the sprinkle the top with 1 cup; let stand for 5 minutes until melted.