Make your holiday season a special one by discovering Forsyth’s unique culinary side, where every meal has a story to tell. We are home to a ton of incredible restaurants, including Her Majesty Kitchen, each offering something unique. Get ready to explore. Forsyth is a foodie’s paradise all wrapped up in small-town charm with a guest spotlight on Food Network’s Chopped Champion, Chef Chelsia Green Ogletree, owner and executive chef of Her Majesty Kitchen!
With Thanksgiving and Christmas quickly approaching, we’ve asked Chef Chelsia for her top holiday tips to help make your cooking experience a better one! These tips encompass Chef Chelsia’s holiday mindset to “Eat Regal this season — with flavor, peace, and a plan.”
At the end of her helpful tips, you’ll find the recipe for Chef Chelsia’s Four Cheese Macaroni Tortellini, perfect for those hosting their annual family gathering or as a dish to bring to your upcoming festive engagements!
Holiday Tips
- Plan, Prep, Protect Your Peace.
Write your menu early and get ahead. Chop, bake, and set the table the day before — because the best gift you can give yourself is time to enjoy your own cooking.
- Layer Flavor, Not Stress.
Use compound butters, citrus zest, or infused oils to build layers of flavor without complicating your life. Simple steps, royal results.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Jazz Up Your Turkey!
Step outside the traditional oven-roasted box — try a Lemon Pepper Turkey or Cajun Turkey Breast this year. You’ll save a little money and time but lose zero flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish.
Fresh herbs, microgreens, pomegranate seeds, or even edible flowers turn home-cooked dishes into holiday-table masterpieces.
- Make a Signature Sip.
Shake up a Spiced Cranberry Mimosa, a Maple Old Fashioned, or a Smoked Pear Martini. It’s your edible crown — serve it proudly.
- Create a Warm Welcome.
Music, candles, and appetizers on arrival make the difference between a meal and a memory. Hospitality is the first course.
- Support Local, Cook with Love.
Shop Georgia Grown, partner with local farmers, and season every dish with gratitude. Food from the heart never misses.
Chef Chelsia’s Four Cheese Macaroni Tortellini
Serves 6 to 8
Ingredients:
2 (20-oz) bags cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
3 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded Sharp Cheddar
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack
½ cup grated Parmesan
½ cup grated Fontina (or Gouda)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt + pepper to taste
2 tsp garlic herb seasoning
1 cup buttered panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions:
Boil tortellini according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in heavy cream and milk until it is smooth.
Add cheese gradually, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Fold in tortellini. Pour into a buttered baking dish.
Top with breadcrumbs (if using) and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes — until golden, bubbly, and fit for a Queen.
We want to hear from you! Try your hand at Chef Chelsia’s Four Cheese Macaroni Tortellini this holiday season, post a picture of your culinary masterpiece and tag us at Forsyth Convention & Visitors Bureau. Stay safe and enjoy the Holiday Season!
