OLD-FASHIONED SCALLOPED CORN

Steps:

• Heat oven to 375 degrees and position a rack in the middle. Use 1 tablespoon butter to grease a 9-inch square or round baking dish.
• Make the white sauce: Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook mixture for about 1 minute, until sizzling but not browned. Add milk 1/2 cup at a time, whisking well to keep sauce lump-free as it thickens. Raise heat and bring sauce to a simmer, then turn heat to low and cook, whisking occasionally, for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and a pinch of cayenne. Taste and adjust seasoning and set aside.
• Put 2 tablespoons butter in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add corn kernels, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes more, until corn is heated through. Turn off heat.
• Add white sauce to corn mixture and combine well, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Add beaten egg and stir well. Transfer skillet's contents to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
• Sprinkle with cracker crumbs and dot surface with 2 tablespoons butter, cut in small pieces. Bake on middle rack for 30 minutes or until bubbling and nicely browned. Serve piping hot.