Ham and Broccoli Royale

This dish takes a little extra work but it's worth the effort.

1 cup regular uncooked rice
2 10 oz packages frozen broccoli spears
6 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 cups fresh breadcrumbs (about 4 slices)
2 large onions, chopped fine (about 2 cups)
3 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 cups milk
1 1/2 pounds cooked ham, cubed (about 4 cups)
1 8 oz package white American cheese

Oven: 350 degrees

Cook rice according to package directions. Spoon into a greased refrigerator-to-oven 13x9x2 baking dish.

Cook broccoli according to package directions and drain well. Place in a single layer over the rice in the dish.

Melt butter in a large frying pan. Measure out two tablespoons and sprinkle over breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Set aside.

Stir onions into remaining butter in pan. Saute until soft. Stir in flour, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until bubbly. Stir in milk and continue cooking and stirring until sauce thickens and boils one minute.

Stir in ham and heat again just until bubbly. Pour over broccoli and rice. Place cheese slices over sauce. Sprinkle buttered crumbs over all. Cover and chill.

About 45 minutes before serving, uncover dish and bake for about 45 minutes or until bubbly and crumb top is golden. Serves eight.

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