Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore these Cheddar Bay Biscuits. They’re the perfect combination of flaky, buttery, and cheesy goodness. Inspired by Red Lobster’s famous biscuits, this homemade version is incredibly easy to make and ready in just 20 minutes. The best part? I don’t need to rely on a boxed mix—just simple pantry staples are all it takes to make these delightful treats. Whether I’m serving them with a hearty soup or enjoying them on their own, they never fail to impress.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), divided

• 1 cup whole milk

• 8 ounces shredded mild cheddar cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until well combined.

4. Add the melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

5. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

6. Drop heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.

8. While the biscuits are baking, melt the remaining 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) of butter in a small bowl. Stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt and the dried parsley.

9. Once the biscuits are done, remove them from the oven and immediately brush the tops with the melted butter mixture.

10. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 18 biscuits

• Prep Time: 8 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Butter Topping: For an extra burst of flavor, I like to brush the baked biscuits with a garlic butter mixture. Simply melt some butter and mix in garlic powder and parsley before brushing over the warm biscuits.

• Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is traditional, I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a milder, gooey texture.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporating fresh herbs like chives or thyme into the dough can add a delightful aromatic touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, I place the biscuits in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, I microwave them for 20-30 seconds, though they may not be as crispy.

• Freezing: For longer storage, I freeze the biscuits. After baking and cooling, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in the oven.

FAQs

How can I make these biscuits gluten-free?

I can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the biscuit’s structure.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a milder, gooey texture.

Do I need to use buttermilk?

If I don’t have buttermilk on hand, I can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can make for a quicker preparation when I’m ready to bake.

How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming too dry?

To keep the biscuits moist, I avoid overmixing the dough and bake them just until golden brown. Overbaking can lead to dryness.

Conclusion

These Cheddar Bay Biscuits have become a staple in my kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and satisfyingly delicious. Whether I’m serving them as a side dish or enjoying them on their own, they never disappoint. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can indulge in these warm, cheesy biscuits anytime the craving strikes.