Cherokee Casserole
1 lb. ground beef
1 TBSP oil
3/4 cup chopped onion
1 tsp. salt
Pepper, to taste
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. oregano
1/8 tsp. ground thyme
1/2 small bay leaf
2 cups tomatoes
1 can cream of chicken soup
2 cups cooked rice
American (or Cheddar) cheese, cut in 1/2 inch strips
Brown beef in oil. Add onion; cook over medium heat until tender. Stir in seasonings, tomatoes, soup and rice. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon into baking dish, top with cheese strips. Broil until cheese melts.
YIELD: 4-6 servings.
NOTE: I also added a little chili powder and cumin along with the other spices listed.