Microwave Hot-Cha-Cha Beef

By bakers_delight85

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 large clove garlic minced
• 8 ounces extra-lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 2 cups frozen corn kernels, rinsed with hot water and drained
• 1 cup defatted reduced-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 2-4 Tbsp. canned chopped mild green chili peppers
• 1 cup uncooked quick-cooking rice
• 1 cup canned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 1/4 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
• Salt (optional)

Preparation

Step 1

In a 2-quart round microwave-safe casserole, combine the oil, onions and garlic. Crumble the beef into the casserole and stir lightly.
Cover with wax paper or a lid and microwave on high power for a total of 2 1/2 minutes; stop and stir well after 1 minute to break up the beef.
Add the corn, broth, salsa, and chili peppers. Cover and microwave for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the liquid comes to a boil.
Stir in the rice, beans, chili powder and thyme. Cover and microwave for a total of 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender; stop and stir after 2 1/2 minutes.
Let stand, covered, for about 5 minutes. Season with the salt (if using). Fluff with a fork before serving.
Calories per serving: 324