Step 1

Place the rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, turn heat down to low, and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 2

While the rice is cooking, prep the rest of the casserole.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).

Step 4

In a large skillet set over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until no longer pink. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 5

Melt the butter in the now-empty skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook 3 minutes. Add the pepper and zucchini and cook 5 minutes. Add the carrots and cook for 5 more minutes, or until everything is tender. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the rice, salsa, and beef.

Step 6

Transfer the filling to a 13x9-inch pan. Top with shredded cheese.

Step 7

Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.