Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Name: Grandma's Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs Cavatappi Pasta Mac; 8 cups Chicken Broth; 1 tsp Chicken Bouillon Paste; Kosher Salt & Black Pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp Salted Butter (for pasta mixture); 3 tbsp Salted Butter (for breadcrumb topping); 16 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded); 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded, plus 4 oz set aside); 8 oz Colby Jack Cheese (shredded); 6 oz Gruyere Cheese (shredded); 6-8 slices Mozzarella Cheese (for layering); 24 oz Evaporated Milk; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 4 oz Cream Cheese; 1/4 cup Sour Cream; 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard; 1 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 1/2 tsp Onion Powder; 1 1/2 tsp Seasoned Salt (adjust to taste); 1 tsp Smoked Paprika; 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper; 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs

by Fenna Saul

November 11, 2025

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Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese has been a cherished dish in my family for generations. I recall the warm, cheesy aroma wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up this classic comfort food for family gatherings. Each bite brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of happy moments shared around the dinner table. This Grandma’s Traditional Baked Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a memory that warms the heart. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Simple ingredients that are budget-friendly.
Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment.
A nostalgic dish that reminds you of Grandma’s cooking.
Can be customized with different cheeses and toppings.
Includes Grandma’s Comforting Baked Favorites that everyone will love.
Easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Here’s everything you need for this delicious dish:

1 1/2 lbs Cavatappi Pasta Mac – the perfect pasta shape for holding cheese.
8 cups Chicken Broth – adds depth of flavor.
1 tsp Chicken Bouillon Paste – enhances the broth’s taste.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – to taste.
2 tbsp Salted Butter – for the pasta mixture.
3 tbsp Salted Butter – for breadcrumb topping.
16 oz Mozzarella Cheese – shredded for creaminess.
8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese – shredded, plus 4 oz set aside for topping.
8 oz Colby Jack Cheese – shredded for added flavor.
6 oz Gruyere Cheese – shredded for a nutty taste.
6-8 slices Mozzarella Cheese – for layering.
24 oz Evaporated Milk – for creaminess.
1 cup Heavy Cream – adds richness.
4 oz Cream Cheese – for a smooth texture.
1/4 cup Sour Cream – enhances creaminess.
1 tbsp Yellow Mustard – adds a tangy taste.
1 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder – for flavor.
1 1/2 tsp Onion Powder – for added depth.
1 1/2 tsp Seasoned Salt – adjust to taste.
1 tsp Smoked Paprika – for a hint of smokiness.
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper – adds a little kick.
2 large Eggs – for binding.
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs – for a crunchy topping.

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Use 2 tablespoons of softened butter to generously grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Shred all the cheeses needed for the recipe. Set aside 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese.
Step 3: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente following the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, then add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon paste.
Step 4: Return the empty pot to medium heat and add evaporated milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture without boiling, stirring frequently. Gradually add the mozzarella, sharp cheddar (except the reserved 4 oz), Colby Jack, and Gruyere cheeses. Stir in yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and stir in sour cream until well mixed. Add the seasoned pasta noodles to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated. Then, beat the eggs lightly and mix them into the cheesy pasta to enrich the mixture.
Step 6: Spread half of the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Layer the mozzarella cheese slices on top evenly, then cover with the remaining macaroni and cheese. Sprinkle the reserved 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese over the top layer.
Step 7: In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toss continuously for about 5 minutes until they turn golden brown and toasted.
Step 8: Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish. Optionally, dust a bit of smoked paprika on top for an extra pop of color.
Step 9: Place the baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake uncovered in the preheated 350-degree F oven for 25-30 minutes until the edges are bubbly. For a beautifully golden crust, finish under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Grandma's Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe - Grandmas Old Fashioned Baked - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor and creaminess.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to set.

What’s the secret to perfect Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked?

The secret lies in the cheese blend and allowing the dish to rest. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the day before, refrigerate, and bake it when you’re ready.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked?

Be careful not to overmix the cheese sauce or under-season the pasta. Both can lead to disappointing results.

Best Ways to Serve Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Serve this dish hot right out of the oven for the best experience. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A slice of garlic bread also complements the rich flavors beautifully. Consider Classic Grandma’s Baked Dish options for a well-rounded dinner.

Grandma's Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe - Grandmas Old Fashioned Baked - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Per serving (recipe makes 8 servings):

Calories: 600
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked

Can I freeze Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked?

Yes! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

What can I use instead of cavatappi pasta?

You can substitute with elbow macaroni or penne, but cavatappi holds the cheese sauce wonderfully.

Variations of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Baked You Can Try

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon or vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as pepper jack for a kick, or make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Enjoy these delicious grandma’s baked comfort food variations!