ONION GRATIN WITH COUNTRY HAM

"We used country-style ham in this recipe for its full flavor and bold saltiness. It can be purchased as 6-ounce steaks from many grocery stores or sliced at your store's deli counter, but regular smoked ham works very well as a substitute."

1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
2 cups milk
2 lb. large onions (about 4), peeled, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices, and separated into rings
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans or Great northern beans, rinsed and drained
6 oz cooked, country-style ham or smoked ham cut into bite-size strips
1/2 cup smoked provolone or plain provolone cheese, shredded (about 2 oz) (for top)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

TO MAKE THE SAUCE:
In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned. Add milk all at once. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.

TO ASSEMBLE AND BAKE:
Stir in the sliced onions, the beans, and the ham. Transfer mixture to a 1 1/2 quart oval or 2 quart rectangular baking dish. Place the dish on a baking sheet.

Bake, covered, for 1 hour. Uncover and sprinkle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes more or until onions are tender and top is golden. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Makes 6-8 side-dish servings.
Source: Home and Garden Magazine