Freaky Franken Cheese: Aldi’s Spookiest (and Tastiest) Halloween Treat

Every October, Aldi sneaks something a little ghoulish onto its shelves that cheese lovers can’t stop raving about: Freaky Franken Sage Derby Cheese.

At first glance, it looks like something you might find at the back of your fridge after a few too many “I’ll cook tomorrow” nights — marbled green, a little weird, maybe even alarming. But fear not, fellow foodies — that eerie hue isn’t mold, it’s magic (well, technically dried sage and natural coloring). And behind that Frankenstein exterior lies one of the most deliciously mild, herby cheeses you’ll ever sink your teeth into.

Freaky Fraken Sage Derby Cheese at Aldi's

A Little History (Because Cheese Always Deserves a Backstory)

Sage Derby is no new-age gimmick. This green-tinted beauty hails from Derbyshire, England, where cheesemakers have been crafting it since the 17th century. Traditionally, it was made to mark special occasions — think Christmas or harvest celebrations — not Halloween. But Aldi? Aldi said, “What if we made it spooky?” And the Freaky Franken was born.

It’s a mild, buttery British cheese, similar in texture to a Colby Jack, with just enough peppery, piney notes from the sage to keep things interesting. In short: it’s comfort food dressed for Halloween.

What the Fans Say

Aldi fans don’t play when it comes to seasonal cheese, and the Freaky Franken has a cult following. Reddit threads about it are basically fan clubs in disguise.

• One shopper wrote, “Yes — big fan here. It has a very mild sage flavor and a great, almost Colby Jack cheese flavor.”

• Another added, “I’ve been shredding it to use for sourdough grilled cheese. It’s great!”

And honestly, that last idea? Genius. A little Freaky Franken between two slices of buttery bread, sizzling on a skillet — that’s how you do Halloween grown-up style.

How to Enjoy Your Franken Cheese

• Grilled cheese with a twist — the sage gives it a herby lift that pairs perfectly with a side of tomato soup.

• Charcuterie board moment — its creepy-cool color makes it the star of any Halloween snack spread.

• Mac & cheese upgrade — melt it into your sauce for a subtle earthy kick.

• Witch’s snack platter — add black grapes, fig jam, and dark chocolate for a spooky-chic vibe.

Get It Before It Vanishes

Like all good Halloween things, Freaky Franken Sage Derby is here for a limited time only. Once the pumpkins fade and the turkeys take over, it disappears until next spooky season. So if the idea of green cheese makes your inner foodie cackle with delight, grab a wedge (or three) before it’s gone!