AU Gratin Sweet Peas

This is a great Thankgiving Day side dish
There just might not be a better one.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup minced onions
Salt to taste
Freshly ground white pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
4 cups sweet green peas, blanched
1/2 cup fine dried bread crumbs
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Grease an 8 cup glass dish
with 1 teaspoon of the butter.
In a large saute pan, over medium heat,
melt the remaining 2 tablespoons
of the butter Add the onions.
Season with salt and pepper.
Saute for 2 minutes.
Add the flour and cook for 1 minute,
stirring constantly.
Stir in the milk and bring to a simmer.
Cook for 4 to 6 minutes or until the
mixture coats the back of a spoon.
Add the peas and mix thoroughly.
Pour into the prepared pan.
Season the bread crumbs.
Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the peas.
Top with the grated cheese.
Place in the oven and cook until
the peas are bubbly and the top is golden,
about 10 to 12 minutes.
Spoon onto serving plates and serve.