Loved how this came out! My friends at church were gushing over it

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### **Instructions**

1. **Cook the Rice**
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. You can use any type of rice you prefer, but white rice is a classic choice. Once cooked, set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using), and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. If you want to kick up the flavor, you can also add a pinch of garlic powder while cooking the vegetables.

3. **Cook the Meat**
Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned. Use a spatula to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, mixing everything thoroughly.

4. **Combine Ingredients**
Once the meat is browned, add the cooked rice and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. **Add Cheese**
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture and stir until it melts into the dish, making it creamy and delicious.

6. **Serve and Garnish**
Serve the dish warm in a large bowl or casserole dish. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro or parsley. This not only adds flavor but also gives it a nice, fresh look.

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### **Why Everyone Will Love It**
At the church potluck, everyone was raving about this dish, and I can see why! It’s comforting and flavorful, with a great balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes from the tomatoes. The rice adds a great texture, while the ground meat keeps everything hearty and satisfying. It’s the type of dish that feels homemade and wholesome, which is always appreciated at any gathering.

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### **Tips for Success**
– **Spice It Up**: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you enjoy more heat, add extra chili powder or even a chopped jalapeño.
– **Make It Ahead**: This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day!
– **Add Veggies**: You can sneak in other veggies like corn, peas, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value and flavor.
– **Leftovers**: This recipe makes great leftovers. You can repurpose it into burritos, wraps, or even as a topping for nachos!

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### **Conclusion**
This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Just like my friends at church, everyone will be asking for the recipe, and you’ll be proud to share it! Give it a try for your next event or family meal and see why it’s a crowd favorite.