1 lb. pork sausage, crumbled
1 lg. green pepper, chopped
1 lg. onion, chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 c. raw rice
2 env. chicken noodle soup mix
4 1/2 c. water
1/2 c. slivered almonds
Grated cheese (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large skillet, brown sausage, green pepper, onion, and celery. Drain and set aside. In saucepan, combine rice, soup mix, and water. Bring to a boil and cook 7 minutes. Combine both mixtures. Add almonds and put into a 2 quart baking dish. Top with cheese, if desired. Cover tightly. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Serves 8-10.

Note: Almonds may be used as topping, if desired.