Unstuffed Pepper Bake

1 lb. ground beef (or ground turkey)

1/3 c. onion, chopped

1 1/2 c. peppers (red, yellow, green. orange - whatever colors you choose), chopped (about 2 peppers)

2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 t. garlic powder)

1/2 t. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 14.5-oz. can diced tomatoes, drained

1 1/2 c. instant rice

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

8 oz. cheddar cheese, shredded

1 15-oz. can tomato sauce

Preheat oven to 375. Saute ground beef, onions, peppers and garlic for 10 minutes or until meat is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain off any excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomatoes, rice, Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat; stir in 1 cup of cheese. Spread mixture evenly into a 9" x 13" baking dish and top with tomato sauce and remaining cheese. Bake uncovered 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

If you like stuffed peppers, this is a great meal. Easier than stuffing the peppers, but the same great taste. You could make it up in advance and then just pop it in the oven to bake for dinner the next day!