Irresistible Homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Your Ultimate Copycat Recipe
Freshly baked Red Lobster cheddar biscuits, ready to serve
Prepare to be amazed by these incredibly flavorful and utterly delicious Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Bursting with savory notes of garlic, rich butter, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley, this easy-to-follow recipe brings the beloved restaurant classic right into your kitchen. If you’ve ever craved those warm, garlicky, cheesy biscuits that simply melt in your mouth, you’ve found your new go-to recipe.
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked biscuits. This particular recipe holds a special place in my heart, not only because it perfectly replicates the iconic Red Lobster experience but also because of its sheer simplicity. It’s an ideal accompaniment to a wide range of meals, from hearty soups to elegant main courses, proving just how versatile a humble biscuit can be.
Why Everyone Loves Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Since their debut in the early 1990s, Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits have captivated diners with their unique blend of flavors and irresistible texture. For many, they are synonymous with a delicious meal out, creating fond memories and a craving that extends far beyond the restaurant walls. The magic lies in their perfect balance: a soft, fluffy interior, a slightly crisp exterior, and that unmistakable savory kick from garlic and cheese.
Growing up, the arrival of that warm basket of garlicky goodness was always a highlight of any Red Lobster visit. The excitement was palpable! Learning to recreate these easy garlic cheddar biscuits at home was a game-changer. Now, you don’t need a reservation to enjoy that same buttery, cheesy perfection. Imagine pulling a tray of these golden-brown treasures from your own oven, filling your home with their inviting aroma.
A basket full of warm, homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Mastering Your Homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
The secret to truly divine cheddar biscuits often lies in the quality of your cheese – and specifically, how you prepare it. While pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, grating your own brings a superior flavor and texture that truly elevates these biscuits. Freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly and incorporates better into the dough, leading to an intensely cheesy, perfectly integrated flavor. If you’re new to the art of grating your own cheese, don’t fret; it’s a simple process that yields incredible results, and well worth the small effort for that extra touch of perfection.
This homemade recipe meticulously captures the essence of the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuits you adore from Red Lobster. From the moment the first batch emerges from the oven, releasing its aromatic cloud of garlic, butter, and cheese, you’ll understand exactly what “perfection” means in biscuit form. These aren’t just any biscuits; they’re a timeless delight, a comfort food icon that continues to gain fans with every savory bite. Our household can’t get enough of them, and soon, yours won’t either!
What Foods Go Best with Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
The beauty of these Cheddar Bay Biscuits lies in their incredible versatility. They truly complement an astonishing array of dishes. Their rich, savory profile makes them an exceptional side for almost any meal. Consider serving them alongside comforting soups like a hearty cabbage roll soup – their sturdy yet tender texture makes them ideal for dipping. They’re also fantastic with fresh, crisp salads, adding a warm, satisfying element to a lighter meal.
For heartier fare, these biscuits are an absolute dream. Imagine pairing them with a succulent giant steak, a perfectly roasted chicken, or even a simple weeknight pasta dish. Their cheesy, garlicky flavor elevates rich proteins and balances lighter vegetables. Don’t limit them to dinner, though! They can also be a delightful addition to a brunch spread or a comforting snack any time of day. The options are genuinely infinite, making them a staple you’ll want to bake again and again.
Close-up view of a baked Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Crafting these iconic biscuits requires a handful of simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. The key is in the combination and the technique. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create flaky, flavorful Cheddar Bay Biscuits:
Bisquick Baking Mix
This classic all-in-one baking mix is the foundation of our easy biscuit recipe, ensuring a consistently flaky and tender result. Its pre-portioned blend of flour, leavening, and fat takes much of the guesswork out of biscuit making, making the process virtually effortless. If you prefer a completely “from-scratch” approach or don’t have a box on hand, you can easily make your own homemade Bisquick mix with just a few basic pantry staples.
Cold Butter
The secret to exceptionally flaky biscuits lies in using very cold butter. As the butter melts in the hot oven, it creates pockets of steam, resulting in those coveted layers. We recommend grating cold butter with a cheese grater, cutting it into the mix with a pastry cutter, or using two butter knives to incorporate small pieces into the dry ingredients. The colder the butter, the flakier your biscuits will be!
Cheddar Cheese
What would a Cheddar Bay Biscuit be without its namesake cheese? For the richest, cheesiest flavor and best texture, we highly recommend grating your own sharp cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can slightly alter the melt and flavor. However, if convenience is key, pre-shredded cheddar will still yield delicious results.
Granulated Sugar
A small amount of granulated sugar helps to balance the savory flavors and contributes to the biscuits’ golden-brown crust. While granulated sugar is our go-to for this recipe, you can experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey if you prefer, keeping in mind they may slightly alter the dough consistency.
Milk
Milk is essential for bringing the biscuit dough together, providing moisture and richness. Any type of dairy milk works beautifully here. For those seeking dairy-free options, plant-based milks such as oat, hemp, or cashew milk can be successfully substituted, ensuring a delicious outcome for everyone.
Garlic Powder
This pantry staple is absolutely crucial for achieving the signature Red Lobster Cheddar Bay biscuit flavor. Garlic powder infuses the dough with its pungent, aromatic notes, which deepen and become even more delightful during baking. It’s the primary spice that sets these biscuits apart.
Fresh or Dried Parsley
Parsley adds a touch of fresh herbaceousness and a beautiful visual appeal to the finished biscuits. While dried parsley flakes are convenient and work perfectly well, fresh parsley, finely chopped, will lend a brighter flavor. It’s typically mixed with melted butter and brushed over the warm, cooked biscuits, creating that irresistible glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor.
Gathering the key ingredients for homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits
How to Make Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to a precise 400° Fahrenheit (200°C). This high heat ensures a quick rise and a beautifully golden exterior.
2. Combine Bisquick and Cold Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick mix (or your homemade Bisquick) with the very cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry blender or two butter knives, cut the butter into small, pea-sized pieces throughout the Bisquick. You should still see visible bits of butter – this is key for flaky biscuits!
3. Mix in Wet Ingredients and Flavorings
Next, using your hands, gently mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, granulated sugar, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix everything until just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the dough, as overworking can lead to tough biscuits. A few quick folds are all you need.
4. Form and Arrange Biscuits
Drop the dough by rounded spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie or baking sheet. Leave a little space between each biscuit for even baking. Don’t worry about perfect shapes; the rustic look is part of their charm!
Dough dropped onto a baking sheet, ready for the oven
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the tops of the biscuits are beautifully golden brown. Keep in mind that baking times can vary slightly depending on your individual oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end.
6. Prepare the Signature Garlic Butter Topping
While your biscuits are baking, prepare the iconic topping. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and the dried or fresh parsley. Stir until well mixed.
7. Drizzle and Serve
As soon as the biscuits emerge from the oven, brush their warm tops generously with the melted garlic herb butter mix. This step infuses them with an extra layer of savory flavor and gives them that glossy, irresistible sheen. Serve warm and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Can You Freeze Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Absolutely! These biscuits freeze wonderfully, making them perfect for meal prepping or having a stash of comfort food ready to go. Simply allow the baked biscuits to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight storage container or a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their freshness and flavor for up to three months in the freezer.
How Do You Reheat Frozen Biscuits?
When you’re ready to enjoy them, there are a couple of great options for reheating. You can gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in the microwave works well for individual biscuits. Don’t forget to prepare a fresh batch of the melted garlic butter to brush over them after reheating for that authentic taste!
What’s the Secret to Flaky Biscuits?
The key to truly flaky biscuits lies in two main factors: very cold butter and minimal handling of the dough. Cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, which results in distinct, airy layers. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, leading to tough biscuits instead of tender ones. Always work quickly and gently with the dough.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
While sharp cheddar is traditional and highly recommended for its classic flavor, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses can add interesting variations. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the garlic flavor.
The perfect Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, golden and delicious
Why These Biscuits Are a Must-Try!
These homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are more than just a side dish; they’re an experience. They bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of restaurant-quality indulgence to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to elevate a weeknight meal, their irresistible flavor and perfect texture are sure to make them a beloved favorite in your home. Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board to save it for later!
Delicious Poppyseed Rolls, another great bread recipe
Other Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed baking these wonderful biscuits, you might also love exploring some of our other fantastic bread and savory recipes:
Poppyseed Rolls (pictured above) – A delightful addition to any meal, soft and flavorful.
Cheesy Cornbread Drop Biscuits – Another cheesy, easy-to-make biscuit option with a comforting cornbread twist.
Corndog Mini Muffins – Fun, bite-sized treats perfect for parties or a quick snack.
Quick Crescent Knots – Simple, buttery knots that are always a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s make some Cheddar Bay Biscuits!
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Copy Cat – Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
These Copy Cat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t done this before!
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 17 mins
Total Time 22 mins
Cuisine: American Keyword: Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Servings: 12 biscuits Calories: 264 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Print Recipe
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix
3/4 cup milk
4 Tablespoons cold butter
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for dough)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sugar (listed twice in original, assuming one is intended for dough)
2 Tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (for topping)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C).
Combine Bisquick with cold butter, using a pastry blender or two butter knives. Bits of butter should still be visible throughout the mix.
With your hands, gently mix in cheese, sugar, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder until just combined. Do not overmix.
Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet, leaving some space between each biscuit.
Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the tops of the biscuits are golden brown. Baking time may vary.
In the meantime, combine the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and parsley.
Brush the tops of the warm biscuits with the melted butter herb mix immediately after they come out of the oven.
