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.