Beef and Bean Taco Casserole

This recipe was delicious. I had it printed out and slipped into my recipe book holder. I do know that it is a Betty Crocker recipe.

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef

1 can refried beans

1 jar (16oz) thick and chunky salsa

1 package taco seasoning mix

2 1/2 cups coarsely broken tortilla chips

1 medium green bell pepper

4 green onions

2 medium tomatoes, chopped (my boys do not like tomatoes so I left them out)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I used Mexican Blend)

1/4 cup sliced ripe olives

1 cup shredded lettuce

Directions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a skillet brown the ground beef and drain off any excess fat. Stir in the refried beans, salsa and taco seasoning mix. Reduce heat to medium . Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.

In an ungreased 2-quart casserole, place 2 cups of the broken tortilla chips.

Top evenly with beef mixture.

Sprinkle with bell pepper, onions, 1 cup of the tomato (if using these) the cheese, and olives.

Bake uncovered 20 to 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly and cheese is melted.

Top baked casserole with lettuce, remaining 1/2 cup tomato and remaining 1/2 cup tortilla chips. Serve with sour cream and additional chips and salsa if desired. Makes 5 servings 1 1/2 cups each.