BAKED CARBONARA TORTELLINI

I love a good carbonara, but this recipe is the best of both worlds with adding the cheese tortellini instead of plain spaghetti for an oomph of extra flavor.

BAKED CARBONARA TORTELLINI
4 slices bacon, diced
1 small red onion, diced
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh ground salt and black pepper
1/2 + 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
16-20 ounces cheese tortellini, prepared per package
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons Wondra flour

• Preheat oven to 450°.
• Spray 2 quart casserole with non-stick spray.  Set aside.
• Prepare tortellini per package directions and drain well.
• Cook bacon until crisp. Remove with slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
• Add onions and garlic to bacon grease and saute' until fragrant.
• Add flour, whisking until golden.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Alternately slowly add the milk and heavy cream, constantly whisking.
• Simmer 4-5 minutes until begins to thicken.
• Add 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
• Pour into large mixing bowl.
• Fold tortellini into sauce.
• Pour into prepared casserole and top with remaining cheese.  Salt and pepper again if you'd like.
• Bake 5 minutes or so until cheese is melted and turning golden.