AJ Bump's Carrot Casserole

I first had this recipe when I was a small child (I don't remember it!). The next time was when my mother in law made it. It is SO good. Give it a try and let me know what you think.

Serves 8

A. J. BUMP'S CARROT CASSEROLE
12 carrots
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 large egg, beaten
salt and pepper (to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Spray an 8-by-8-inch Pyrex dish with nonstick spray.
2. Clean and cut carrots into large pieces. Cook them in boiling water until soft. Drain well and mash.
3. Saute onion over medium-high heat in the 1 tablespoon butter or margarine until very soft.
4. In a large bowl, combine carrots, onions, 1/2 cup butter or margarine, egg, salt, pepper and garlic. Mix well. Place carrot mixture in prepared baking dish and top with crackers and cheese.
5. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes.

Servings: 9
Source: A. J. Bump's Restaurant, Freeport, CA
From: the Sacramento Bee; July, 1997