Creamed Onion Gratin

• 2 (10-ounce) packages fresh pearl onions, peeled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups half-and-half
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded white Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 1/4 cups fresh breadcrumbs*
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

1. Place onions in a large saucepan; add water to cover. Bring to boil; reduce heat, and simmer 6 to 8 minutes or until onions are just tender. Drain well. Set aside.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; add flour, stirring until smooth. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add half-and-half; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Add salt and next 3 ingredients. Add 1 cup shredded cheese; stir until cheese melts. Gently stir in drained onions. Pour onion mixture into a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
3. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and thyme until crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle evenly over cheese.
4. Bake, uncovered, at 350u0b0 for 25 to 30 minutes or until thoroughly heated and top is golden.
5. *Pulse 3 bread slices in a mini food chopper or food processor. It should yield 1 1/4 cups breadcrumbs.

fresh pearl onions, butter, flour, salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground mustard, ground nutmeg, shredded white cheddar cheese, fresh breadcrumbs, butter, thyme

Taken from www.myrecipes.com/recipe/creamed-onion-gratin (may not work)