Sicilian Beef and Rice

Instead of serving meat sauce with pasta, try this tasty variation that calls for rice.

Ingredients:
1 package (16oz) frozen pepper and onion blend
1 teaspoon minced garlic
12oz ground beef round steak
2 cans (15 oz each) reduced-sodium tomato sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
salt and pepper. to taste
3 cups cooked long grain rice, warm
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
1. Cook pepper and onion blend, garlic and ground beef in large saucepan over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are tender, about 6 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and herbs; simmer, uncovered, until thickened, about 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. spoon mixture over rice and sprinkle with cheese. ENJOY!!!