Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
If you have ever found yourself craving those irresistibly fluffy, cheesy, and garlicky biscuits from Red Lobster, you are in for a treat because this Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe brings that magic right onto your kitchen table. With a crisp golden crust and a tender, cheesy center, these biscuits perfectly balance savory garlic and cheddar goodness, making every bite feel like a comforting hug. It’s a crowd-pleasing classic that’s easier to whip up at home than you might think, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a tasty snack any time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing a crucial role in creating the iconic flavor, texture, and appearance that define Cheddar Bay Biscuits. From the fluffy structure the flour and baking powder create, to the rich, creamy bursts of cheddar cheese and garlic flavor, every element counts.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your biscuits, it provides structure and tenderness.
- Baking powder: Gives the biscuits their signature light and fluffy rise.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just a subtle touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the biscuits with that beloved garlicky note.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly—split between the dough and the topping.
- Unsalted butter: Both melted into the batter and brushed on top, it creates richness and buttery aroma.
- Whole milk: Brings moisture and helps achieve the soft biscuit crumb.
- Shredded mild cheddar cheese: Melts into pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the biscuit.
- Dried parsley: Adds a hint of color and fresh herbal flair to the buttery topping.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is an easy step but absolutely essential to ensure your biscuits bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt Butter
Melt half of the butter (½ cup) in the microwave for about 30 seconds and set it aside to cool slightly. This melted butter will blend into the biscuit dough, adding that signature richness without weighing down the texture.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of kosher salt. Combining the dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly throughout every biscuit.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the melted butter and whole milk to your dry ingredients, then whisk just until the flour is moistened. Be careful not to overmix—this is crucial because overmixing can make your biscuits tough instead of fluffy and tender.
Step 5: Fold in Cheese
Gently fold in the shredded mild cheddar cheese with a spoon. The cheese will provide melty pockets of flavor throughout each biscuit, making every bite mouthwateringly cheesy.
Step 6: Drop and Bake
Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the biscuit batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for baking expansion. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the biscuits turn golden brown on top — this color is a sign of perfectly baked, crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside biscuits.
Step 7: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping
While the biscuits bake, melt the remaining quarter cup of butter in a small bowl and stir in the remaining salt and dried parsley. This garlicky herb butter adds the finishing touch that defines these biscuits and keeps that iconic Red Lobster flavor alive.
Step 8: Brush and Serve
As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, generously brush them with the melted garlic butter mixture. The warm butter seeps into the biscuits, adding moisture and an aromatic, flavorful crust that’s utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
For a pretty and flavorful finish, sprinkle a little extra dried parsley on top of the hot buttered biscuits. If you want to get a bit fancy, a light dusting of finely grated Parmesan or even some freshly cracked black pepper can add depth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These biscuits pair beautifully with seafood dishes, making them perfect for a home seafood feast. Serve alongside a bowl of creamy chowder, a light green salad, or classic steamed vegetables. They also complement hearty main courses like roasted chicken or slow-cooked beef, elevating your meal with their rich, buttery goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe part of a delicious appetizer platter. Arrange them with a small dish of herbed cream cheese or a spicy honey butter for dipping. If you want to enjoy them for breakfast or brunch, split them and fill with scrambled eggs and bacon for a savory biscuit sandwich that will impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep them from drying out, place a slightly damp paper towel inside the container to maintain moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze fully baked biscuits by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating
To revive leftover Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisp on the outside again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain their signature texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! While mild cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the biscuits.
Is it okay to substitute buttermilk for whole milk?
Yes, using buttermilk will add a lovely tanginess and can make the biscuits even more tender. Just keep the quantity the same as the milk called for in the recipe.
Can I make these biscuits gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Results may vary slightly in texture, but the flavor will still shine through.
Why shouldn’t I overmix the batter?
Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can make the biscuits dense and tough rather than light and fluffy. Stir just until the ingredients come together for the best texture.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a gentle stir before dropping spoonfuls onto the baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this foolproof Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe up your sleeve, you can bring that warm, cheesy comfort of Red Lobster’s famous biscuits right into your own home. Whether you’re making a special dinner or just craving something irresistibly delicious, these biscuits never disappoint. Go ahead—bake a batch, share with friends, and watch as everyone falls in love bite after buttery bite!
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Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
Description
These Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a perfect copycat of the famous Red Lobster favorite. Fluffy, cheesy, and packed with garlic and butter flavor, they make an irresistible side dish or snack. With a crispy golden exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, they’re easy to make in just 20 minutes and will impress any crowd.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided (½ teaspoon plus ¼ teaspoon)
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (1½ sticks), divided (½ cup + ¼ cup)
- 1 cup whole milk
Other
- 8 ounces shredded mild cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Melt Butter for Batter: Melt ½ cup (1 stick) of the unsalted butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then set it aside to use in the biscuit dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter and whole milk into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently just until the flour is moistened; be careful not to overmix to keep biscuits tender.
- Fold in Cheese: Using a spoon, fold in the shredded mild cheddar cheese into the batter, distributing it evenly without overworking the dough.
- Shape Biscuits and Bake: Drop heaping spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and cooked through.
- Melt Butter for Brushing: While the biscuits bake, melt the remaining ¼ cup (½ stick) of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in the remaining ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and the dried parsley to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Brush Biscuits: When the biscuits come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the melted butter and parsley mixture to infuse them with rich flavor and a glossy finish. Serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough to ensure the biscuits stay soft and fluffy.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor and even more tender biscuits.
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded to avoid additives that can affect texture.
- These biscuits are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to regain crispness.
- Feel free to adjust garlic powder according to taste for a stronger or milder garlic flavor.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
