Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about those irresistible, golden, cheesy biscuits served at Red Lobster, you are going to love this Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe. It captures every buttery, garlicky, cheesy bite that makes these biscuits a family favorite, all from your own kitchen in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or spicing up an ordinary dinner, these biscuits bring a warm, comforting, and downright addictive treat to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the perfect Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients that each bring a vital element—fluffy texture, savory flavor, and that signature golden crust—to life.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the biscuits, providing a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that makes these biscuits rise beautifully and puff up perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory flavors and aid browning.
- Garlic powder: Crucial for that iconic garlicky kick without overpowering the cheese.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the dough just right.
- Unsalted butter: Split between the dough and the buttery topping, it adds richness and moisture.
- Whole milk: Keeps the biscuits tender and adds subtle creaminess.
- Shredded mild cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully inside, imparting that unforgettable cheesy flavor.
- Dried parsley: Adds a fresh hint of color and a mild herbaceous note for the finishing touch.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F to create that ideal hot environment these biscuits need to puff up quick and turn golden. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt Butter
Melt ½ cup (1 stick) of butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds and set it aside. This melted butter will be folded into your dough, lending moisture and that buttery richness that’s crucial to the biscuit’s texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, garlic powder, and half of the kosher salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures an even flavor and proper rising.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the melted butter and whole milk to the dry ingredients. Whisk just until the flour is moistened—be gentle here because overmixing can make biscuits dense instead of fluffy.
Step 5: Fold in the Cheese
Gently fold in the shredded mild cheddar cheese with a spoon, distributing it evenly throughout the batter to guarantee cheesy pockets in every bite.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly but leaving room for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until each biscuit turns a gorgeous golden brown on top and bottoms.
Step 7: Prepare the Butter Topping
While the biscuits bake, melt the remaining ¼ cup (½ stick) of butter in a small bowl. Stir in the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and dried parsley. This seasoned butter is the secret to that classic Red Lobster finish.
Step 8: Brush and Serve Warm
As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush them generously with the butter mixture. This step locks in moisture and gives the biscuits their signature savory sheen.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle a bit of finely chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of parmesan cheese over the brushed biscuits. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and add subtle layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like shrimp scampi, crab cakes, or a hearty bowl of clam chowder. For a comforting meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your biscuits into sliders by slicing them in half and filling them with crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato or a dollop of your favorite ham and cheese spread. You can also serve an assortment on a rustic wooden board alongside flavored butters or honey for a brunch option that impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture. Reheat them gently to prevent drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the baked and cooled biscuits individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to one month without losing their delicious flavor.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated biscuits in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes until warm throughout. For faster heating, a quick zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel can restore some moisture, but avoid overheating to keep the biscuits tender.
FAQs
Can I use sharp cheddar cheese instead of mild cheddar?
Yes, sharp cheddar will give your biscuits a stronger, tangier cheese flavor. Mild cheddar is traditional for a balanced taste, but feel free to experiment based on your cheese preference.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
You can use 2% milk for a slightly lighter biscuit, or buttermilk to add a subtle tang and extra fluffiness. Just keep in mind buttermilk might affect the flavor profile slightly.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum to help with structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Can I make these biscuits vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. Nutritional yeast can replace the cheddar cheese for a cheesy flavor.
How can I make the biscuits less garlicky?
Simply reduce the garlic powder amount to suit your taste or omit it entirely for a milder version. The flavor is still fantastic without the garlic punch.
Final Thoughts
Getting these Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe right at home is a total game changer. They bring that beloved restaurant comfort straight to your kitchen, full of cheesy, buttery goodness that’s perfect any day of the week. Trust me—you’ll be reaching for these biscuits again and again once you taste just how easy and scrumptious they are!
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Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings 1x
Description
Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a beloved Red Lobster copycat recipe featuring soft, fluffy biscuits loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and garlic, then brushed with a flavorful parsley butter. Perfect as a side dish or snack, these homemade biscuits deliver restaurant-quality taste in just about 20 minutes.
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
Wet Ingredients & Mix-ins
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (1½ sticks), divided
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ounces shredded mild cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Melt Butter: Melt ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Set this aside; it will be mixed into the biscuit batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and flavorings.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter and the whole milk into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently just until the flour is moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the biscuits tough.
- Fold in Cheese: Using a spoon, gently fold in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until evenly incorporated into the batter.
- Form Biscuits and Bake: Drop heaping spoonfuls of the biscuit batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the biscuits have risen nicely.
- Prepare Parsley Butter: While the biscuits bake, melt the remaining ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in the remaining ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and the dried parsley to flavor the topping.
- Brush and Serve: Once the biscuits are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the melted parsley butter mixture. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the biscuit dough to keep the biscuits tender and fluffy.
- Using shredded mild cheddar cheese provides the classic flavor; sharp cheddar can be substituted for a stronger taste.
- For a crispier bottom, bake directly on a preheated baking stone or an unlined baking sheet, but parchment paper helps with easy cleanup.
- These biscuits are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and warmed before serving.
- Adding fresh parsley instead of dried will give a brighter, fresher flavor to the topping.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
