1 1/2 pounds fresh brocolli (* see note) — cut into 2″ pieces
1/4 cup water
1 cup fresh mushrooms — sliced
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 oz) — grated
1. Place brocolli and water in a 2-quart casserole; cover. Microwave until brocolli is fork-tender, 10-12 minutes, stirring after half the cooking time. Drain and set aside.
2. Place mushrooms and butter in a 4-cup measure or medium bowl. Microwave until butter is melted and mushrooms are tender, 2-4 minutes, stirring once. Stir in flour, onion powder, salt and pepper. Blend in milk. Microwave until thickened, 5-8 minutes, stirring once each minute.
3. Pour sauce over brocolli. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Microwave until heated and cheese is melted, another 3-8 minutes.
(*) Using frozen brocolli: Substitute 1 10-oz package frozen cut brocolli. Microwave until fork-tender, 8-11 minutes, stirring after half the cooking time. Continue as directed.