Italian Beef and Rice Skillet

 

4

slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

1

lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1

medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)

1

small bell pepper (any color), chopped (1/2 cup)

2

cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2

teaspoon salt

2

cups water

1

can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1

can (2.25 oz) sliced ripe olives, drained

1 1/2

teaspoons Italian seasoning

2

cups uncooked instant white rice

1

cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 oz)

• 1 In 12-inch skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until almost crisp. Add beef, onion, bell pepper, garlic and salt; cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain.
• 2 Stir in water, tomatoes, olives and Italian seasoning; heat to boiling. Stir in rice. Reduce heat to medium; cover and simmer about 5 minutes or until rice is tender.
• 3 Sprinkle with cheese; cover and let stand until melted.