If you’ve been searching for a comforting, soul-satisfying dish that tastes like a warm hug from the past, look no further than Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. This timeless classic brings together rich, melty cheeses, perfectly tender cavatappi pasta, and a blend of spices that make every bite inviting and delicious. It’s the kind of recipe that comforts the heart and delights the taste buds, serving up old-school goodness that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you need a little extra love in your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and a measuring cup arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a large bowl filled with cooked elbow macaroni pasta, bright yellow in color. Surrounding it are three smaller bowls: one with shredded yellow cheddar cheese, one with a mix of shredded white and yellow cheese, and another with shredded white cheese only. To the left is a measuring cup filled with cream and a block of butter wrapped partially in foil next to it. Near the top, two white eggs sit beside a small white bowl containing a light brown and white powder mix and a carton of chicken broth. A small glass container with yellow mustard is also present. The setup looks prepared for cooking a cheesy pasta dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Grandma’s magic lies in the simplicity and quality of each ingredient. Every single one plays a vital role, from the creamy cheeses to the spices that add that unforgettable kick. Grab these essentials to recreate this classic with ease and confidence.

Cavatappi Pasta Mac: The perfect spiral shape holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully for every creamy bite.
Chicken Broth: Used to cook the pasta and infuse subtle savory depth without weighing down the dish.
Chicken Bouillon Paste: Adds an intense boost of umami flavor that complements the cheese wonderfully.
Salted Butter: Incorporates richness in cooking and for greasing the pan to get that perfect crust.
Mozzarella Cheese: Provides stretch and mild creaminess that balances the sharper cheeses.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The hero cheese, sharp and flavorful, with some reserved for topping to create a beautiful golden finish.
Colby Jack Cheese: Adds a subtle sweetness and smooth texture to the cheese blend.
Gruyere Cheese: Brings nutty complexity that elevates the dish to new heights.
Evaporated Milk: Delivers creamy richness without excess liquid, perfect for a luscious sauce.
Heavy Cream: Rounds out the sauce for a velvety, smooth mouthfeel.
Yellow Mustard: A secret star that brightens the cheese sauce and adds a tiny tangy punch.
Garlic Powder: Infuses warmth and flavor throughout.
Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
Seasoned Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the sauce.
Smoked Paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness that keeps things interesting.
Cayenne Pepper: Just the right hint of heat to awaken the palate.
Cream Cheese: Makes the sauce extra creamy and indulgent.
Sour Cream: Adds slight tang and silkiness for perfect texture contrast.
Eggs: Help bind everything together for that classic baked macaroni and cheese texture.
Mozzarella Cheese Slices: Layered inside the casserole for melty pockets of cheesy delight.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible crunchy topping when tossed with melted butter.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Cheeses

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously greasing your 9×13 baking dish with softened butter. This not only prevents sticking but helps create that beautiful golden crust we all crave. Then, shred all your cheeses except for 4 ounces of sharp cheddar, which you’ll save for sprinkling over the top later—this layering technique is key for a multi-dimensional cheesy experience.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Bring your chicken broth to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta until it’s just al dente—tender yet firm so it won’t get mushy in the oven. Drain it and toss it immediately with the chicken bouillon paste and butter, stirring until everything is well combined and the butter is melted. This step infuses the pasta with some savory goodness before it meets the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Luxurious Cheese Sauce

Back on the stove, gently warm evaporated milk and heavy cream without boiling, then stir in the mozzarella, sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and Gruyere. Add in your yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, cayenne, and the cream cheese, stirring until it all melts together into a rich, velvety sauce. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning here to taste—this sauce is the heart of the dish.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Turn off the heat and mix in sour cream for a silky texture. Next, fold the cheesy sauce into the noodles, making sure every piece is lovingly coated. Add in the eggs to bind everything, resulting in that wonderfully creamy, yet firm baked macaroni and cheese texture that Grandma was known for.

Step 5: Assemble Layers of Deliciousness

Start by spreading half of the mac and cheese mixture in your prepared dish, then layer with whole slices of mozzarella cheese to create gooey pockets in the middle. Top this with the remaining mac mixture, sprinkle the reserved sharp cheddar over the top, and prepare to elevate it with an optional breadcrumb topping.

Step 6: Create the Crunchy Topping and Bake

Melt butter in a skillet and toast the panko breadcrumbs until golden brown, which only takes a few minutes and fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma. Sprinkle this buttery crunch atop your casserole, add a pinch of paprika for a pop of color if you wish, and bake uncovered on a sheet tray for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges bubble with cheesy goodness. For an extra special touch, finish it under the broiler to achieve an invitingly golden crust before letting it rest for 10 to 15 minutes—patience here rewards you with the best texture.

How to Serve Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish with red handles is filled with a thick layer of shredded cheese on top, combining yellow and white strands spread unevenly. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with some cheese pieces scattered around it. The cheese layer is dense, textured with slightly uneven edges, showing a rich blend of two types of cheese mixed together. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika on top can brighten the look and add a subtle flavor lift, making each serving feel special and restaurant-worthy while still holding onto that home-cooked charm.

Side Dishes

This rich baked macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, and even a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced meal that excites the palate every time.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or potlucks, serve this cheesy masterpiece in small ramekins for individual portions or layer it inside bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation. It also works wonderfully as a hearty side next to baked chicken or BBQ ribs—making it a versatile star at any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld, making it an easy and satisfying option for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve its creamy texture and delicious flavor. It’s a wonderful way to have comfort food ready whenever you crave it.

Reheating

To bring your mac and cheese back to life, warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry. Microwaving works too, but the oven method keeps the dish creamy and delicious with a bit of that freshly baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi pasta is ideal for holding onto the cheesy sauce thanks to its spirals, elbow macaroni, shells, or penne all work well and can be used as substitutes depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken bouillon paste. This will still result in a rich, delicious mac and cheese, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can! Swap the cavatappi pasta for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping. Also, double-check that your chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

How spicy is this macaroni and cheese due to the cayenne pepper?

The cayenne pepper is used sparingly to add a subtle warmth rather than heat. Feel free to adjust or omit it based on your heat tolerance—either way, the flavors remain rich and comforting.

Can I double or halve the recipe?

Yes! This recipe scales well up or down. Just maintain the ingredient ratios and adjust baking time slightly if making a larger or smaller casserole. The key is watching for that bubbly, golden top to know it’s done.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe that goes beyond just taste—it’s nostalgia, comfort, and love all melted into one dish. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, it always delivers that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy that makes everyone smile. Give this classic recipe a try and make a new tradition that your whole family will cherish for years to come.