Grandma’s Secret to the Most Delicious Mac & Cheese that Won Over Drew Barrymore

Mac and cheese is one of those timeless favorites loved by all, yet there are countless ways to prepare it—whether it’s stovetop, baked, or even from a box. But is there anything better than the version made by grandma?

Phyllis Gardner’s 10 grandkids and two great-grandchildren certainly think not! This “glamorous grandma,” affectionately called “Glamma” by The Drew Barrymore Show host Ross Mathews, is sharing her family’s go-to dish: Baked Mac & Cheese, in a special segment premiering on Oct. 16. The segment, 'Recipe Road Trip,' celebrates local chefs across the U.S. showcasing their best recipes.

Gardner kicks off the show with a recipe she learned from her brother, which has become a beloved family tradition, handed down through the generations. So, what’s the secret behind this mouthwatering dish? The Brooklyn native reveals the key to making this mac and cheese a crowd-pleaser.

Grandma’s Secret to the Most Mouthwatering Mac & Cheese

You guessed it: it’s all about the cheese.

I don’t rely on fancy cheeses,” Gardner says. “My go-to is sharp Cheddar and extra sharp Cheddar. And I really believe that extra sharp is the game-changer when it comes to flavor.”

She explains that balance is crucial—if you only use extra sharp Cheddar, it will dominate the flavor of the entire dish, but if you stick to just sharp Cheddar, it might taste too plain. A mix of both creates the perfect mac.

But how much of each do you use? Don’t ask Gardner. She says the real trick to making mac and cheese just right is measuring with your heart.

“I don’t measure,” she explains. “It’s all about how it feels, how it looks, and the texture.” She trusts her instincts to know if the sauce needs more butter, milk, or flour to achieve the right consistency, adding cheese directly from the block until “it feels right.” Gotta love grandmas.

Fortunately, the team at The Drew Barrymore Show has calculated the measurements based on the mac and cheese Gardner made on the show, so we’ve got the complete recipe ready for you. And if you’re looking for a grandma-approved side, try Gardner’s collard greens.

To get the full recipes and watch Gardner in action, be sure to tune in to The Drew Barrymore Show on Oct. 16.