Kittencal'S Spicy Mexi Sausage And Rice Casserole - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs hot Italian sausages, casings removed
crushed red pepper flakes (optional and to taste, add in for more heat)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package taco seasoning mix (can use 1 package or as desired)
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice (do not drain add the juice in also)
1 (10 ounce) can chicken broth
1 cup white long grain uncooked rice
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste, I use seasoned salt)
fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
shredded cheddar cheese (optional and use amount desired)

Preparation

Set oven to 350 degrees F (set oven to second-lowest rack).
Generously grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet cook the sausage meat with onion, bell pepper and garlic until the meat is lightly browned; mix in all remaining ingredients except the shredded cheddar cheese.
Transfer to prepared baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Remove and toss with a fork; cover with foil and continue baking for 1 hour or until the rice is soft.
Sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese is desired.