The Ultimate Guide to Making Cheddar Bay Biscuits at Home

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There is something special about the smell of warm, cheesy biscuits straight out of the oven. For many, Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits bring back memories of family dinners, celebrations, or just a simple meal that felt extra indulgent. These biscuits are known for their buttery, flaky texture and rich garlic-cheese flavor that pairs perfectly with almost any dish.

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The best part is that you do not need to visit a restaurant to enjoy them. With this simple recipe, you can recreate these biscuits at home with minimal effort. Whether you are an experienced cook or stepping into the kitchen for the first time, this recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly. It requires no yeast, no complicated techniques, and comes together in just 30 minutes.

One of the great advantages of making these biscuits at home is that you have full control over the ingredients. You can adjust the seasonings, experiment with different cheeses, or even add a little spice to suit your preference. The result is a batch of warm, golden biscuits that can be served with soups, salads, grilled meats, or enjoyed on their own.

If you have ever hesitated to bake from scratch, this recipe is a great place to start. It is simple, forgiving, and yields delicious results.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the biscuits, you will need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with whole wheat flour for a denser texture or a gluten-free blend if needed)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (balances flavors without making the biscuits sweet)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (helps the biscuits rise and stay fluffy)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder (gives them a signature garlicky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (enhances the overall taste)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional but adds a mild heat)
• 1 cup buttermilk (creates a tender texture; substitute with 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar if needed)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (if using salted butter, reduce added salt slightly)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (cheddar gives the best flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby can also work)

For the topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (adds richness and helps achieve a glossy finish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (substitute with dried parsley if fresh is unavailable)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (reinforces the garlicky taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 450°F. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and the right texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or a large measuring cup, whisk together the buttermilk and melted butter. The butter will form small clumps in the buttermilk, which helps create flaky layers in the biscuits.

4. Form the Dough

Pour the buttermilk and butter mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently stir the mixture until the flour is just incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense biscuits. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it is evenly distributed.

5. Knead and Shape the Biscuits

Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough three to four times—just enough to bring it together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1 ¼ inches thick.

Using a 2 ½-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If you do not have a biscuit cutter, use a glass or simply shape them by hand.

6. Bake the Biscuits

Place the biscuits in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent overbaking.

7. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping

While the biscuits are baking, mix the melted butter, chopped parsley, and garlic powder in a small bowl.

8. Brush and Serve

Once the biscuits come out of the oven, immediately brush the tops with the garlic butter mixture. This final step enhances their flavor and gives them a glossy, appetizing finish. Serve warm for the best taste.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Do not overwork the dough. Kneading too much can make the biscuits tough instead of tender and flaky.
• Use cold buttermilk. Cold ingredients help create steam pockets in the dough, leading to a light and airy texture.
• For extra cheesy biscuits, add an additional ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
• If your biscuits spread too much, chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
• To make drop biscuits, skip the rolling and cutting steps. Simply scoop out portions of dough using a spoon or ice cream scoop and place them directly on the baking sheet.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits pair well with a variety of dishes.

• With soup: Serve alongside chicken soup, beef stew, or creamy chowder for a comforting meal.
• With grilled meats: These biscuits make a great side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• As a breakfast option: Slice them open and serve with scrambled eggs and sautéed vegetables for a delicious morning meal.
• With a dipping sauce: Try them with ranch dressing, honey butter, or a mild hot sauce for an extra flavor boost.

For storage, keep the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their texture. If freezing, store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months and reheat before serving.

Engagement Features

Cooking is about more than just following a recipe—it is about the experience of creating something delicious. This recipe is designed to be simple and rewarding, perfect for beginners looking to build confidence in the kitchen.

If you try making these Cheddar Bay Biscuits, consider experimenting with the flavors. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can bring a unique twist, while using different cheeses can create a whole new taste profile.

Share your experience with these biscuits. Did you try a variation? What did you pair them with? Let others know in the comments, and feel free to ask questions if you run into any difficulties. Cooking is a learning process, and every attempt brings you closer to mastering the art of homemade comfort food.