Tested in an 800-watt microwave oven

Makes 4 servings
1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
1 small green bell pepper, cored and chopped
1 (1.25-ounce) taco seasoning packet
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 14.5-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained
Round tortilla chips
1 cup shredded cheese

Crumble ground beef into a hard plastic colander set over a 2-quart microwave-safe casserole. Microwave on high 3 minutes. Stir to break up beef and scatter bell pepper over the top. Microwave on high 3 minutes.

Discard fat that has drained into casserole dish, and transfer meat mixture into same casserole. Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce. Cover and microwave on high 3 minutes. Stir and add kidney beans. Re-cover and microwave on high 3 minutes. Test meat mixture with a food thermometer to make sure it reaches 160∞F. Let mixture rest 2 minutes before serving.

Two ways to serve: (1) Transfer meat mixture to the center of a large platter; or (2) divide the meat mixture among 4 individual plates. Surround the meat mixture with tortilla chips to resemble a hat brim. Scatter cheese over the meat mixture to resemble a straw hat, and serve hot.

Serving suggestion: To make a complete meal, accompany the dish with a salad and a green vegetable.