TACO SPANISH RICE

Ingredients

1 envelope taco seasoning mix
3 cups water
1 1/2 cups long-grain rice, uncooked
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 (4-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
1 (16-ounce) can black beans, undrained
1 1/2 cups grated medium Cheddar cheese, divided
Picante sauce
Sour cream

Preparation

In a saucepan, combine taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil. Stir in rice. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes, until rice is done. Meanwhile, brown ground beef and onion in a large skillet; drain. Stir in cooked rice, olives and black beans, blending well. Place half of the beef mixture in a greased 9- x 13- inch casserole. Sprinkle with 3/4 cup of the cheese. Add rest of beef mixture and top with remaining cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly. Serve with picante sauce and sour cream. Makes 6 servings. Jo Ann Laney, Phenix City (Russell County)