Cheesy Pearl Onions

This is a family favorite taken from the new Joy of Cooking.

Pearl Onions and Cheese

• 1 lb. pearl onions
• 1 1/2 T. butter
• 1 1/2 T. flour
• 1/2 c. milk
• 1/2 c. half and half
• 1/2 t. salt
• 1/4 t. pepper
• 1 c. Swiss

Drop the onions into a large pan filled with cold water.  Bring to a boil and boil for 1 minute.  Using a slotted spoon, remove the onions and peel.  Return the onions to the water and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes.

Drain, reserving 1/3 cup of the cooking liquid.  Put the onions in a shallow baking dish. Add the butter and flour to the water and cook over low heat, about two minutes.  You want the liquid thickened but not brown.  Add the milk, half and half, salt, and pepper and cook, whisking constantly, for about 3 minutes.

Pour the mixture over the onions and top with the cheese.  Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.