HAM, SPINACH, AND PASTA CASSEROLE

8 ounces packaged dried mostaccioli, cut ziti, or elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
3 medium onions, cut into thin wedges (or 5 medium leeks, sliced)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 cups half and half, light cream, or milk
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups fully cooked chopped ham
1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta; rinse with cold water. Drain again.

In a large saucepan melt margarine or butter. Add onion or leeks and garlic. Cover and cook about 5 minutes or till onions are tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in flour, thyme, and pepper. Add half and half and chicken broth all at once. Cook and stir till thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 1 minute or more.

Stir in pasta, ham, and spinach. Spoon mixture into a 3 quart casserole.

Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or till heated through. Le stand 5 minutes. Stir gently before serving.

Makes 6 main dish servings
Source: Better Homes and Gardens Cooking for Today - Pasta