Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook rice according to package directions; keep covered and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, in a large deep skillet cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to break up meat. Drain fat. Set beef aside, reserving skillet.
3. Using same skillet heat oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and onion to skillet; cook and stir until tender. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce and garlic salt; bring to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Stir cooked rice and cooked beef into tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour into a 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Bake, uncovered, 30 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese, if desired, and serve.