Creamy bacon and kumara pasta bake

1.Preheat oven to 200°C. Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling, salted water, following packet directions. Rinse under cold water and drain well.

2.Meanwhile, in a large frying pan, heat oil on high. Cook bacon for 2-3 minutes, until golden. Add leek and kumara and cook, stirring, 3-4 minutes, until tender.

3.To make the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and thyme and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Return to heat and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture boils and thickens. Simmer for 1-2 minutes. Stir in cheese and mustard. Season to taste.

4.Place the pasta, vegetable mixture, spinach and sauce in a 12-cup baking dish. Stir to combine well. Sprinkle evenly with combined breadcrumbs and cheese. Bake 20-25 minutes, until top is golden.