-NewsDesk (cbedit@imaws.org)
Tillamook, a household name in the world of dairy products, is making a strategic leap into the frozen foods market with the introduction of two distinct product lines: Tillamook Mac & Cheese and Crispy Stone-Fired Pizzas. This daring move is expected to bring a new dimension of flavor to the freezer aisle and resonate with consumers seeking convenience without compromising on taste.
Famous for its premium cheeses, butter, ice cream, and cream cheese, Tillamook is embarking on this culinary venture to capitalize on the immense popularity of its mac & cheese dish. Served at the renowned Tillamook Creamery in Oregon, this dish has gained a cult following, prompting the company to bring its beloved recipe to a wider audience.
Steve Marko, Tillamook’s Senior Director of Research and Development, expressed the enthusiasm surrounding this expansion, stating, “It’s become a staple on our menu and folks travel from miles around to get a taste – to say it’s a fan favorite is an understatement.” Marko added, “We couldn’t be more excited to bring that very special, sought-after recipe to the masses with our new line of Mac & Cheese.”
The Tillamook Mac & Cheese line offers a “decadent” experience, featuring al dente noodles enveloped in a creamy sauce infused with a variety of Tillamook cheeses. The product is set to be available in enticing flavors, including Classic Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar Uncured Bacon, and Cheddar & Hatch Chile.
Not stopping at mac & cheese, Tillamook’s culinary exploration extends to the realm of stone-fired pizzas. Showcasing their expertise in cheese curation, the pizzas blend an array of flavors, with a combination of medium yellow cheddar, whole-milk mozzarella, and Monterey Jack. The debut of these pizzas introduces four distinct styles: Cheesy Uncured Pepperoni, Three Cheese, Three Cheese Supreme, and Cheesy BBQ Chicken.
While Tillamook’s bold venture might seem novel, it follows a trend of established brands making their mark in the frozen foods sector. Earlier this year, industry titan Kraft unveiled its own frozen iteration of the iconic Mac & Cheese, while 2022 witnessed the launch of premium frozen pizzas from Sovos Brands-owned Italian foods label Rao’s, available in a quartet of delectable varieties.
Tillamook’s expansion into the frozen foods market demonstrates a commitment to innovation and an eagerness to translate Creamery favorites into accessible options for consumers’ everyday meals. As the company’s iconic flavors journey from the Creamery to the freezer aisle, the culinary world eagerly awaits the response from freezer enthusiasts seeking a taste of Tillamook’s renowned quality and taste.