A cheese-filled tortellini 'mac and cheese' casserole. Cheesy 'noodles', indeed!

"Say Cheese" Noodles

1 pound fresh or refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups milk
1 garlic clove, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese - divided use
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon plain dry bread crumbs

1. Heat broiler. Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until smooth and bubbly, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk; add garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, until mixture is thickened and just begins to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in 1/4 cup cheddar and the Parmesan. Discard garlic. Stir in tortellini and parsley until well mixed.
3. Transfer to shallow 1 1/2-quart casserole. Combine remaining 1/4 cup cheddar and the bread crumbs in small bowl; sprinkle on top of casserole. Broil 1 to 2 minutes or until topping is golden.

Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional facts per serving: calories: 575, total fat: 23g, saturated fat: 11g, cholesterol: 117mg, sodium: 957mg, carbohydrate: 63g, protein: 30g

Recipe provided by Better Homes and Gardens - BHG.com a member of the Home and Family Network for the best of cooking, gardening, decorating and more. © 2003 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.