Onion Quiche or Gratin (Adapted from Julia Child)

I usually simplify Julia's recipes and omit some of the details, including using less fat, and they come out fabulous! I don't remember if I ever made this, but am posting it for safekeeping. For the quiche, use a pastry shell crust. For the gratin, omit the pastry crust. The cook time does not include time for baking the pastry shell.

• Ready In: 1 hr 55 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 7  cups onions, minced (2 pounds)
• 4  tablespoons butter (or try using less)
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons flour
• 2  eggs or 3  egg yolks
• 2⁄3 cup milk, cream or 2⁄3 cup half-and-half
• 1  teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 1  pinch nutmeg
• 1⁄2 cup  grated swiss cheese or 1⁄2 cup gruyere cheese
• 1 (8 inch)  pastry shells (optional see note below)

Directions

1. Place oven rack in upper third of oven. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Cook onions in butter over very low heat til tender and golden, stirring occasionally (about 1 hour). Remove from heat and let cool somewhat.
3. Add flour; cook over low heat for 2 or 3 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Beat til well blended.
5. Gradually add onions and half cheese. Check seasoning.
6. Pour into pastry shell or baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Place on baking sheet.
7. Bake 25-30 minutes or until puffed and browned.
8. NOTE: To partly bake the pastry shell: Bake in middle of oven at 400 degrees F. for 8-9 minutes.