Ingredients:
1/4 cup water
2 1/2 cups frozen chopped broccoli
3 tablespoons flour
1/4 teaspoon onion or garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons margarine
2 cups nonfat milk
4 slices (3 ounces) American cheese
6 to 8 drops hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco)(optional)
Instructions:
Heat water to boiling in 3 quart saucepan. Add broccoli. Cover and cook 1-2 minutes.
Pour broccoli onto a dinner plate or cutting board (water will have cooked away). Set aside.
Combine flour, onion or garlic powder, and pepper in a small bowl.
Add margarine to saucepan and melt over medium heat. Add flour mixture and stir with whisk or fork until well mixed.
Gradually stir in milk. Stir constantly with whisk to keep sauce smooth. Cook over medium heat (stirring or whisking a few times) until thick and bubbly (about 4 to 5 minutes). Cut broccoli into pieces while milk mixture is cooking.
Add broccoli to sauce and turn heat to low. Add cheese slices. Cook and stir about 2 minutes or until cheese melts. Serve immediately. Add hot sauce to taste if desired.
Tips:
Use frozen mixed vegetables, frozen peas, or chopped cooked potatoes instead of broccoli.
