If you’ve ever dined at Red Lobster, you know that their Cheddar Bay Biscuits are legendary. But did you know you can easily make these cheesy, garlicky, buttery delights right in your own kitchen? Whether you’re craving a warm snack or want to impress guests with a homemade treat, this guide will walk you through how to make Cheddar Bay Biscuits step-by-step. Get ready for fluffy, flavorful biscuits that rival the restaurant classic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make about 10 biscuits, gather these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces), shredded
– 1 cup cold buttermilk
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the buttery topping:
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you might already have everything on hand!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the cold buttermilk with the melted butter. You may notice small bits of butter solidifying — that’s perfect.
4. Form the Dough
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but hold together.
5. Scoop the Biscuits
Lightly grease a ¼-cup measuring cup or use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto your baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each biscuit to allow for spreading.
6. Bake
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
7. Add the Garlic Butter Topping
While the biscuits bake, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them generously with this flavorful butter.
8. Serve Warm
Enjoy your Cheddar Bay Biscuits fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture!
Tips for Perfect Cheddar Bay Biscuits
– Don’t overmix the dough. Overworking can make biscuits tough instead of tender. Mix just until ingredients come together.
– Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor punch. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
– Cold buttermilk and butter help create flaky layers and tender crumb.
– Brush with garlic butter immediately after baking to lock in that signature flavor and moisture.
– For a little extra flair, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or extra parsley on top with the butter.
Variations to Try
– Spicy Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Add a pinch more cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika to the dough for a smoky heat.
– Herb-Infused: Mix fresh chopped herbs like chives, thyme, or rosemary into the dough for an herby twist.
– Cheese Mix: Swap some cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for different cheesy profiles.
– Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and adjust liquids as needed.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warm and soft again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crispy edges.
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
These biscuits are incredibly versatile and pair well with many dishes:
– Seafood dishes like shrimp scampi or lobster bisque
– Soups and stews, especially creamy or tomato-based ones
– Salads for a comforting side
– Grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal
They also make a fantastic snack on their own, thanks to their irresistible cheesy, garlicky flavor.
Making Cheddar Bay Biscuits at home is easier than you think, and the results are irresistibly delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy fresh, warm biscuits any time you want. Give this recipe a try and bring a bit of restaurant magic to your kitchen!