Ham & Cheese Pasta

3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
3/4 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp pepper
1/8 to 1/4 tsp dried thyme
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 pound sliced deli ham, chopped

Cook pasta according to package directions, adding asparagus during the last 3 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt butter; add garlic. Stir in the flour, onion powder, pepper and thyme until blended; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat. Add cheeses; stir until melted. Stir in ham; heat through. Drain pasta and asparagus; toss with cheese mixture. Yield: 4 servings.