Background
Holiday hosting just got a whole lot more impressive. Beecher’s “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese already brings rich, comforting indulgence to the table, but this version layers on a fresh burst of tart, sweet, and savory flavor with a Sage Citrus Cranberry Sauce. It’s festive, eye-catching, and guaranteed to spark some delighted “what’s in this?!” moments.
It’s also a brilliant way to put leftover cranberry sauce to work after a big day of cooking — a simple upgrade that turns your mac and cheese into a showstopping second-day dish without any extra fuss.
Cooking and Serving Tips
This topping brings a beautiful balance: tangy cranberries, bright citrus, and earthy sage all playing against the creamy, cheesy richness beneath. Whether you’re hosting a full holiday feast or keeping things simple with a cozy family dinner, this mac delivers both comfort and flair.
Serve it alongside roasted meats, festive vegetables, or as a colorful anchor in a buffet spread. If you’re entertaining a mixed crowd, prepare a gluten-free version and a classic one side by side so every guest gets in on the fun. And if you want a touch of drama? Finish the dish with crispy fried sage for a restaurant-level presentation.
Recipe
Instructions
Preheat and bake the mac: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the Beecher’s “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese according to the package directions.
Make the topping: While the mac and cheese bakes, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, sage leaves, salt, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the cranberries burst and the mixture begins to thicken. Remove the lid and discard the sage leaves. Continue simmering until the sauce becomes thick and jammy. Remove from heat.
Add the Dulcet cheese: After the initial bake, remove the mac and cheese from the oven, take off the film, and stir gently. If desired, transfer to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the grated Beecher’s Dulcet cheese evenly over the top for an extra cheesy, slightly crispy finish.
Final bake: Return the mac and cheese to the oven for 5–10 minutes, until the topping is bubbling and golden brown around the edges.
Add the cranberry topping: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 1–2 minutes. Dot small spoonfuls of the Sage Citrus Cranberry Sauce across the surface, allowing the vivid color and brightness to contrast the caramelized cheesy top.
Optional showstopper finish: For a restaurant-worthy presentation, place fried sage leaves over the dollops of cranberry sauce.
Rest and serve: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm slightly.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
55 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes
Serves:
6-9
Ingredients
For Mac & Cheese:
- 1 (46 oz) Beecher’s “World’s Best” Mac & Cheese (or two 20 oz boxes)
- 1/2 cup grated Beecher’s Dulcet cheese
- (Optional garnish) 12 sage leaves, fried
For Sage Citrus Cranberry Sauce:
- 6 oz fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 fresh sage leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 orange
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