In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the onions in butter until softened, about 10 minutes.
Prepare a 9x13 pan with butter. I add about 2 Tbsp of soft butter and rub it with my fingers or a paper towel. Sprinkle the bottom of the baking dish with bread crumbs.
Place the onions on top of the bread crumbs.
In a bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, and salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the onions.
Sprinkle the two cheeses over the onion mixture and place in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the casserole from the oven; cover with a towel and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Adapted from Portland's Palate Junior League Cookbook