Good Recipes for the whole family

We love this recipe, we have had it twice this week.

What you need:

4 small baking potatoes ( we use medium to large)
1 lb ground beef
1/4 lb velveeta cheese product, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 small tomato, chopped
2 green onions, sliced (I didn't use these)
1/2 cup reduced fat or light sour cream

Make it:

1.) prick potatoes in several places with fork. Microwave on High 14 min or just until tender, turning after 7 min. ( this is for all 4 potatoes and if you would rather cook them in the oven adjust time, I personally cook them in the microwave.)

2.) meanwhile, brown meat in large skillet: drain. Add velveeta, tomatoes and onions; cook until velveeta is melted and mixture is well blended, stirring frequently.

3.) Split potatoes; mash insides with fork. Top with meat mixture and sour cream.

I forgot to use the velveeta the second time I made these and I added kidney beans like a chili and it was just as good.

Spanish rice chicken casserole
(8 servings)

2 packages (6.8 oz) spanich rice & vermicelli mix
1/4 cup butter, cubed
4 cups of water
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained ( I left these out since I can't have chilies)
3 cups cubed cooked turkey or chicken
1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn, drained ( I didn't have any corn so left this out also)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup (4 oz) shredded mexican cheese blend, divided

In a large skillet, saute rice and vermicelli in butter until golden brown.
Gradually stir in the water, tomatoes, and contents of rice seasoning packets.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 min. or until rice is tender.

Mean while, in a large bowl, combine the chicken (turkey), corn, sour cream and 1/2 cup cheese.

Stir in rice mixture.
Transfer to a greased 3 qt baking dish, sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Bake, uncovered at 375 degrees for 20-25 min.

The whole family liked this recipe, including grandma (http://squidoo.com/life-with-grandma). It taste great even without the two items.