Step 1

1 Spray 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In 12-inch skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Place beef in slow cooker.

Step 2

2 Stir in all remaining ingredients except rice and cheese.

Step 3

3 Cover; cook on Low heat setting 7 to 8 hours.

Step 4

4 When about 30 minutes are left in cooking time, gently stir in cooked rice. Cover; cook about 30 minutes longer.

Step 5

5 Serve soup topped with cheese.