IOWA CORN AU GRATIN

6 ears of corn or 1 (12-oz.) can corn kernels, drained
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 eggs, well beaten
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.

If fresh corn is used, remove husk and silk, and cut kernels from cob.

In a large frying pan over medium heat, melt butter or margarine. Add onion and bell pepper and saute until tender.

Stir in flour and then add milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture has thickened and is smooth.

Remove from heat; add corn, cheddar cheese, eggs, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Pour into prepared casserole dish and top with bread crumbs.

Set into a shallow pan of hot water and bake 45 minutes. Remove from oven and serve immediately.

Makes 6 servings