Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a crowd favorite, with their warm, flaky texture and the irresistible taste of melted cheddar cheese. Originally made famous by Red Lobster, these biscuits have become a staple at many dinner tables, thanks to their perfect balance of cheese and savory flavors. If you’ve ever tasted them at a restaurant and wished you could make them at home, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into a recipe that brings the deliciousness right to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a beginner’s dream. First, they’re packed with cheesy, garlicky flavor that elevates any meal. Second, you’ll need just 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy nights. Third, their versatility shines; pair them with soups, seafood, or enjoy them solo. Finally, they’re budget-friendly, using pantry staples you likely already have. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home cook, these biscuits deliver restaurant vibes without the price tag. You’ll love how simple ingredients transform into warm, flaky perfection every time.
Fascinating Facts About Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Cheddar Bay Biscuits debuted at Red Lobster in the early 1990s, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Their name nods to a fictional “Cheddar Bay,” evoking a cozy coastal vibe. Fun fact: Red Lobster serves over 1 million biscuits daily across their restaurants! The signature garlic-butter topping sets them apart, inspired by classic Southern baking. Another tidbit? Home cooks have recreated this recipe for decades, tweaking it to suit their tastes. These biscuits blend comfort and nostalgia, making them a beloved addition to tables everywhere.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Garlic Butter Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Pinch of salt
Gather these items for flaky, cheesy biscuits. Use fresh cheddar for the best flavor.
Cheddar Bay Biscuits Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl.
Cut in cold butter with a fork until the mixture looks crumbly.
Stir in cheddar cheese, then pour in milk. Mix until just combined.
Scoop dough into 12 even portions onto the baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Combine melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and salt. Brush over hot biscuits.
Serve your Cheddar Bay Biscuits warm for ultimate enjoyment.
Cheddar Bay Biscuits Tips and Twists
Tips
- Grate your own cheese; pre-shredded varieties can be dry.
- Keep butter cold for flakier biscuits.
- Don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough biscuits.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform shapes.
- Brush butter topping generously for extra flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper to the dough.
- Herb Boost: Mix 1 tsp fresh chives into the garlic butter.
- Bacon Bliss: Fold in ¼ cup crumbled bacon before baking.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage: Store Cheddar Bay Biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for 3 months.
Reheating: Warm biscuits in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. For frozen biscuits, thaw first or bake from frozen for 10–12 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch—zap for 15–20 seconds.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough, scoop onto a tray, and freeze unbaked. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
Cheddar Bay Biscuits shine alongside hearty dishes. Pair them with creamy soups like potato or clam chowder for a cozy meal. They’re divine with seafood—think shrimp scampi or grilled fish—to echo their restaurant roots. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette. Want a drink to match? A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements their richness. Present them in a basket lined with a cloth napkin to keep them warm and inviting.
FAQ About Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked biscuits in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw or reheat directly from frozen.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack or Gouda, but sharp cheddar gives the classic flavor.
Why are my biscuits dense?
Overmixing or warm butter can cause this. Mix gently and keep butter cold.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check baking powder is gluten-free.
How do I make smaller biscuits?
Scoop smaller portions and reduce baking time by 2–3 minutes.
Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Garlic Butter Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture is crumbly.
- Stir in cheese and milk to form a soft dough.
- Scoop 12 portions of dough onto the baking sheet.
- Bake Cheddar Bay Biscuits for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and salt.
- Brush butter topping over hot biscuits and serve.
Notes
- Calories: 210 kcal per biscuit
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Wrapping Up Your Cheddar Bay Biscuits Journey
You’ve just unlocked the secret to Cheddar Bay Biscuits—fluffy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to make. These biscuits bring warmth and joy to any table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’re now equipped to bake like a pro. Keep experimenting with variations to make them your own. Hungry for more? Check out the recipes below to keep your kitchen buzzing with delicious ideas. Happy baking!
Discover More Comfort Food on Our Blog
Had fun baking Cheddar Bay Biscuits? Keep the cozy vibes going with more beginner-friendly recipes from Abby’s Recipes. Dive into the cheesy goodness of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna, a creamy main dish that pairs perfectly with your biscuits. For another savory side, try Sausage Egg and Cheese Muffins—great for brunch. Craving a hearty soup to dip your biscuits in? Check out Easy Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup. Explore these dishes and make every meal a hit!