DAY 63 RECIPE: CHEESE TORTELLINI WITH SMOKED CHEDDAT CHEESE SAUCE

This was the recipe from yesterday, March 17th 2010. I did not get a chance to post it until now, as yesterday was my birthday! Busy times! And yes, I did make my own birthday dinner. Haha. It is one of most favourite dishes (aside from cotton candy) so I like to make absolutely sure that it will be made to my exact specifications. Anyhow, here it is, amazing and delish (thought I must say, the picture does not do it justice!) Try it and Enjoy it! The Applewood smoked cheddar gives the sauce a wonderful flavour!
DAY 63 RECIPE:

CHEESE TORTELLINI WITH SMOKED CHEDDAR CHEESE SAUCE


INGREDIENTS:
1 Package of Cheese Filled Tortellini, 700g
Water
1 Tsp Salt
6 Tbsp Butter
6 Tbsp Flour
3 Cups Milk
2 Cups Shredded Aged Cheddar Cheese
1 Cup Shredded Applewood Smoked Cheddar
1 Tsp Salt
1/2 Tsp Pepper
1/2 Tsp Nutmeg

DIRECTIONS:
Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil (about 8 -10 cups). Add 1 tsp salt and tortellini. Boil for about 8 minutes or until tortellini is tender. Drain and place into a large casserole dish.
In a larger sauce pan, over medium heat, melt butter. Sprinkle flour over butter and stir together. Cook for 2 minutes, while continuing to stir. Slowly add milk, stirring to mix together and make smooth. Keep cooking on medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 10 minutes). add all cheese, 1tsp salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
Pour sauce over tortellini, mix together to coat. bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, to ensure everything is fully heated through.
A nice addition to this is to add some shredded mozzarella on the top before baking.