GIFT IN A JAR COWBOY CASSEROLE

Steps:

• 1. Pour gravy mix into wide-mouth quart jar.
• 2. In a small bowl, mix together all the spices and the bouillon. Make a paper funnel or use a canning funnel to put the spice layer into the jar.
• 3. Pour the wagon wheel pasta into the jar. Place lid and ring onto jar.
• 4. Cut a piece of cloth in a circle that is 3 - 4 inches wider than the jar ring. (I use a pinking sheers to cut the material for a nice edging. I use a rubber band to hold the cloth in place on the jar. Then I tie a pretty ribbon over the rubber band and attach the recipe card that has a hole in it to put the ribbon through. Then tie a pretty bow.
• 5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
• 6. The gift tag/ recipe card: Cowboy Casserole In a large skillet: Brown and cook well 1-1/2 pounds ground beef. Drain.
• 7. Add the ingredients in the jar to the skillet. Add 4 cups water Add 1 cup chunky salsa Add 1 (15 ounce) can black beans Add 1 (15 ounce) can Mexican Corn (drained)
• 8. Stir together well. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Either use cooking spray or oil to put a thin layer on 9 x 13 -inch baking pan. Pour the well stirred mixture into baking pan.
• 9. Cover baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 65 to 75 minutes (or until pasta is cooked and tender). Remove foil. Add 1-1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
• 10. Return to the oven for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted. Makes 10 servings.