Gaucho Casserole

1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small green pepper, chopped
1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1/4 cup water
1 envelope reduced-sodium taco seasoning
1 teaspoon chili powder
1-1/3 cups uncooked instant rice
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend

Crumble the beef into an ungreased 2-1/2-qt. microwave-safe dish. Add onion and green pepper; mix well. Cover and microwave on high for 6 minutes or until meat is no longer pink, stirring every 2 minutes; drain.

Stir in the beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, taco seasoning and chili powder. Cover and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes or until bubbly, stirring every 2 minutes. Stir in rice.

Transfer to a shallow 2-1/2-qt. microwave-safe dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Cover and let stand for 6-8 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted. Makes 8 servings.