INGREDIENTS
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2 bunches asparagus (about 2 pounds), cut into 2-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
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4 thick-slices bacon (about 4 ounces), chopped (about 1 cup)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion (from 1/2 a small onion)
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Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
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2 cups whole milk
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4 large hard-boiled eggs, halved lengthwise
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1 cup butter crackers (such as Ritz), coarsely crushed (about 2 ounces)
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1 cup shredded gruyere cheese (about 2 1/2 ounces)