If you’re looking to elevate your comfort food game, say hello to Tortellini Mac and Cheese! This delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese combines the cheesy, creamy goodness you know and love with the hearty texture of tortellini. It’s the perfect dish to warm your soul, impress your family, or simply indulge in some serious comfort food vibes. Let’s get started!
A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
Growing up, mac and cheese was a staple in my household, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. But as my culinary adventures progressed, I found myself yearning for something a little different. Enter tortellini! This pasta, often stuffed with cheese or meat, adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe, creating a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra flavor and texture!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tortellini Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Serving Size
Serves 6
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the tortellini. Drain both pastas and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. This should take about 3–5 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the tortellini and macaroni evenly with the creamy goodness.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Tortellini Mac and Cheese is not just about indulgence; it’s about creating a dish that brings joy to the table. With every creamy bite, you’ll experience the rich flavors of sharp cheddar mingling with the delightful chew of tortellini. It’s comfort food that feels special enough for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive celebration, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.