Creamy Bacon And Sweet Potato Pasta Casserole - cooking recipe

Ingredients

18 oz pasta shells
2 tbsp olive oil
3 slices bacon, finely sliced
1 None leek, white part only, finely sliced
1 1/4 lb sweet potato, peeled, cubed
None None Sauce
4 1/2 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
3 cups milk
5.5 oz Cheddar cheese, grated
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
5.25 oz baby spinach
2/3 cup fresh breadcrumbs
None None salad, to serve

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F. Cook pasta in boiling, salted water until al dente. Rinse under cold water then drain.
Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, heat oil over high heat. Cook bacon for 2-3 mins, until golden. Add leek and sweet potato. Cook, stirring, for 3-4 mins, until tender.
To make the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and thyme. Cook, stirring, for 1 min. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, until mixture boils and thickens. Simmer for 1-2 mins. Mix in 3 oz cheese and mustard. Season to taste.
Combine pasta, vegetables, spinach and sauce in a large baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs and remaining cheese. Bake for 20-25 mins, until top is golden. Serve with salad.