Yeah, funky name I know.  So, what exactly IS meal starter?  It’s the perfect base for stuffed peppers, southwest meatloaf and the most awesome sauced burritos you’ll ever make.  

2 pounds of ground beef (or turkey, or a mixture of beef and turkey…you make the call.  You could even add chorizo and kick it up a notch!)

1 cup chopped onion

2 Tbsp fresh minced garlic

2 Tbsp taco seasoning

2 1/2 cups cooked rice

1 can black beans

1 1/2 cups frozen corn

1 16oz jar salsa

1 small can diced green chilies

Brown the meat in a large pan. (if you are making southwest meatloaf do not brown the meat, simply stir all ingredients together, place in a loaf pan and cook at 375 for about 30-40 minutes).  Drain any grease and add the onions and garlic and cook for several minutes.  Remove from heat and allow to cool (if you are freezing).

Add the corn, beans, salsa, chilies, rice and taco seasoning, mix together well.  You can either immediately make your stuffed peppers, burritos or meat loaf or divide into (approx) 1/2 pound portions, put in gallon zip-lock freezer bags and freeze.  The meat will keep in the freezer for about 2 months.