Homemade Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits: Your Favorite Red Lobster Treat at Home
Craving the irresistible taste of Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits? You’re in luck! This guide will show you how to recreate those warm, savory, and utterly delicious cheesy garlic biscuits right in your own kitchen. Using simple pantry staples, especially the versatile Bisquick baking mix, you can whip up a batch of these golden wonders in mere minutes. Prepare for an explosion of buttery, garlicky, and cheesy flavor that will have everyone reaching for more before the main course even hits the table!
Why Make Your Own Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits are legendary for a reason. Their unique blend of fluffy texture, sharp cheddar, and potent garlic butter makes them an unforgettable appetizer or side dish. But why limit yourself to restaurant visits when you can enjoy them anytime? Making these copycat cheddar biscuits at home offers several fantastic advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Enjoy a large batch for a fraction of the price of dining out, allowing you to treat your family and friends without breaking the bank.
- Unmatched Freshness: Serve them piping hot straight from your oven, with the butter melting perfectly into the soft interior. The aroma alone is worth the effort!
- Customization: Adjust the amount of garlic, cheese, or even add extra ingredients to suit your exact taste preferences. Want more garlic? Go for it! Craving a spicier kick? Easily done.
- Convenience: Thanks to the simplicity of Bisquick, these come together incredibly fast, making them perfect for last-minute cravings, unexpected guests, or a quick weeknight treat.
- Pantry Staples: You likely already have most of the ingredients needed in your kitchen, making it an accessible and stress-free recipe for any home cook, regardless of experience.
This beloved recipe has been a favorite for years, originally shared back in October 2012, and it continues to be one of the easiest and most satisfying bread recipes you can master. Get ready to elevate your home dining experience with these incredible garlic cheddar muffins, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
The Magic Behind Bisquick Cheddar Bay Biscuits
The secret to the remarkable speed and effortless simplicity of this copycat recipe lies in utilizing Bisquick Baking Mix. Bisquick is a pre-mixed baking product that typically contains all-purpose flour, leavening agents (such as baking powder and baking soda), salt, and a shortening or fat. This convenient blend means you don’t have to meticulously measure out multiple dry ingredients, significantly simplifying the baking process and ensuring consistently fluffy and delicious results every single time.
While traditional biscuit recipes often demand cutting cold butter into flour for that flaky texture, Bisquick streamlines this step. It allows you to quickly create a soft, pliable dough with minimal effort, reducing preparation time to mere minutes. It truly is the ultimate shortcut for achieving that coveted light, airy, and tender texture without any fuss, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned kitchen enthusiasts looking for a quick win.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Red Lobster Biscuits
Crafting these epic Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits requires just a handful of simple ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is its straightforward nature, relying on common items you probably already have stocked in your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create biscuit magic:
- Bisquick Baking Mix: The undeniable star of our recipe. This all-in-one mix ensures your biscuits achieve that desirable light, fluffy texture and consistently delicious flavor. For those with specific dietary needs, Bisquick also offers Heart Smart and Gluten-Free varieties, allowing everyone to enjoy these savory treats.
- Skim Milk: This acts as the primary liquid binder for our dough, bringing all the ingredients together. While skim milk is recommended for a lighter biscuit, feel free to use whole milk for a slightly richer and denser result. Non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond or soy milk, can also be successfully substituted if you’re adapting the recipe for dietary reasons.
- Cheddar Cheese: The very heart of the “Cheddar Bay” flavor profile. For the most intense flavor and optimal melt, we highly recommend using freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can sometimes impact their melt and overall texture. However, for maximum convenience, pre-shredded cheddar will still work beautifully to deliver a cheesy punch.
- Melted Butter: This component is absolutely crucial for creating the glorious garlic topping that defines these biscuits. Do not skimp on this! It provides the iconic rich flavor, moisture, and golden sheen that makes them so irresistible. Unsalted butter is generally preferred to give you more control over the overall sodium content, but salted butter can also be used; just be mindful of any additional salt you might add to the dough or topping.
- Garlic Powder: The key to achieving that signature savory aroma and unmistakable garlic taste. Garlic powder integrates smoothly into the melted butter, ensuring every bite of your biscuit is infused with that classic Red Lobster garlic punch. While fresh minced garlic is flavorful, garlic powder offers a more consistent distribution and a slightly more mellow, roasted garlic flavor that closely mimics the restaurant version.
Essential Kitchen Equipment for Biscuit Success
Having the right tools at hand makes the baking process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of essential equipment that will help you prepare your Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits with utmost ease and efficiency:
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is paramount for comfortably combining all your ingredients without creating a mess. We are particularly fond of glass batter bowls that feature a handle, as they provide excellent stability on the counter and make the stirring and mixing process significantly easier.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking! Accurate ingredient proportions are essential for consistent baking results, ensuring your biscuits turn out perfectly every time.
- Microwave Silicone Cover: A true lifesaver for melting butter! These ingenious covers prevent butter from splattering all over the interior of your microwave, keeping it clean and saving you from accidental “butter explosions” that are all too common in baking.
- Baking Sheet: We highly recommend using baking sheets with raised sides. This simple feature is incredibly practical as it prevents your precious biscuits from sliding off during transport to or from the oven. This small detail can save you from a clumsy baking mishap and ensures all your efforts pay off.
- Parchment Paper: A true baking hero! Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures a completely non-stick surface, makes cleanup incredibly easy, and promotes even baking for perfectly golden biscuits every time.
- Pastry Brush: This tool is absolutely essential for generously coating your warm biscuits with the luscious, buttery garlic topping. It ensures every biscuit gets an even, flavorful glaze.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety is always paramount in the kitchen! Always use reliable, heat-resistant potholders or oven mitts to handle hot baking sheets and protect your hands from burns. Silicone options are particularly effective and help prevent accidental fires that can occur with cloth materials.
How to Make Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making these glorious cheesy garlic biscuits is surprisingly simple and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Follow these straightforward steps to bring the irresistible taste of Red Lobster’s iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits right into your own home:
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a hot 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect, quick rise and a beautifully golden-brown crust, ensuring your biscuits are light and fluffy inside. While the oven preheats, take a moment to prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for effortless cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In your large mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick Baking Mix, the specified amount of skim milk, and your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir these ingredients together gently using a spoon or spatula until a soft, shaggy dough just begins to form. It is extremely important not to overmix the dough, as overworking it can develop the gluten too much, leading to tough and dense biscuits rather than the light and tender texture we desire. Mix only until everything is barely combined, and no dry streaks of Bisquick are visible.
- Portion the Dough: Using a spoon, a small ice cream scoop, or a cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of the prepared dough onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure you leave a little space (about 1-2 inches) between each biscuit to allow for even baking and proper air circulation. There’s no need to grease the baking sheet if you’re using parchment paper, as it provides a naturally non-stick surface.
- Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake the biscuits for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent any over-browning. They should feel firm to the touch but still tender.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping: While your biscuits are baking, take a small bowl and melt the butter (if not already melted). Stir in the garlic powder until it is thoroughly combined with the melted butter. This aromatic mixture is what gives the Cheddar Bay Biscuits their signature rich, savory finish and irresistible fragrance.
- Brush and Serve Immediately: As soon as you remove the hot, golden biscuits from the oven, generously brush the warm butter and garlic mixture over the tops of each biscuit using a pastry brush. The warmth of the biscuits will eagerly absorb the buttery garlic goodness, infusing them with incredible flavor and making them shine. Serve them immediately while they are still warm for the absolute best taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Homemade Biscuits
To ensure you get the most out of your homemade Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits and enjoy their fresh taste, here are some helpful tips for preparation and storage:
- Make Ahead: If you’re planning your meal in advance, Bisquick generally recommends preparing dough or batter no more than an hour before baking. If you wish to prepare the biscuit dough beforehand, it’s best to store it covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for the freshest taste, the lightest texture, and the best rise, baking the biscuits shortly after mixing the dough is always the ideal approach.
- Storage: Any leftover Cheddar Bay Biscuits can be kept fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within three days. While they are undoubtedly at their peak fresh from the oven, they still make a delightful snack or side dish the following day.
- Freezing/How to Freeze: To extend the life of your biscuits, you can easily freeze them. First, allow your baked biscuits to cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap each biscuit individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped biscuits into an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, ready for whenever a craving strikes!
- How to Reheat: Reheating your biscuits properly can bring them back to their warm, soft, and inviting glory. For the best results, wrap them loosely in aluminum foil and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through to the center. For a quicker option, you can briefly microwave them, though this might make them a little softer. For an extra touch of deliciousness, consider brushing them with a little fresh garlic butter after reheating!
Recipe Variations and Customizations for Your Unique Taste
While the classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit recipe is undoubtedly perfect as is, the beauty of homemade baking is the freedom to customize! You can easily adapt this recipe to put your own delicious spin on these savory treats. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them truly your own:
- Add Bacon: For an even more indulgent and savory biscuit, simply fold in some cooked and crumbled crispy bacon bits into the dough along with the cheddar cheese. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs exceptionally well with the sharp cheddar and potent garlic, creating an irresistible combination.
- Boost the Cheese Factor: If you consider yourself a true cheese connoisseur, feel free to increase the amount of cheddar cheese added to the dough. Just ensure that the batter still holds its consistency and isn’t too wet. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or even a touch of smoked gouda for a unique and sophisticated flavor profile.
- Adjust the Garlic: One of the greatest advantages of homemade cooking is having complete control over the flavors. You can easily increase the amount of garlic powder in the butter topping for a bolder, more intense garlic flavor, or reduce it if you prefer a more subtle hint. If you’re not a fan of garlic at all, you can omit it entirely to create simple yet incredibly delicious cheddar biscuits. For an extra layer of flavor, a tiny pinch of garlic salt can be added to the butter mixture, but remember to adjust other added salts accordingly.
- Introduce Fresh Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can add an extra dimension and burst of flavor to your biscuits. Dried parsley flakes are a very popular addition, not only lending a lovely mild herbaceous note but also giving the biscuits an appealing visual pop with green flecks. Other excellent additions to the dough or sprinkled into the butter topping include Italian seasoning, finely chopped chives, or even a touch of fresh rosemary.
- Make it Spicy: While Red Lobster doesn’t typically offer spicy biscuits, you can easily give yours a delightful kick! Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the dough. For a more substantial and complex heat, consider adding well-drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies to the dough, creating a flavor profile similar to our own Spicy Southwest Biscuits.
- Vegetarian Option: Excellent news for vegetarians – this recipe is naturally meat-free, making it a perfect savory treat for those who abstain from meat.
- Vegan Option: To transform these biscuits into a plant-based delight, simply substitute the skim milk, cheddar cheese, and butter with your preferred non-dairy alternatives. The market now offers many excellent vegan butters, plant-based milks, and delicious dairy-free cheddar shreds that will work wonderfully.
- Gluten-Free: Achieving a gluten-free version is straightforward. Simply use a Gluten-Free Bisquick baking mix. The proportions for the other ingredients should remain the same, ensuring you get a delicious outcome without the gluten.
- Adjust Serving Size: This recipe, when using 2 cups of Bisquick, typically yields about 14 servings. You can easily scale the recipe up or down to perfectly suit your needs, whether you’re baking for a small family dinner or a large gathering. When scaling up for a bigger group, remember you might need to bake in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can impact even cooking and the overall texture.
- Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains approximately 3 grams of sugar per serving. While Bisquick does not currently offer a specific sugar-free variety, their Heart Smart Pancake and Baking Mix is a low-fat and naturally cholesterol-free alternative that can be used if you are mindful of these particular nutritional aspects.
Tips for the Best Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you think when you follow a few key tips and tricks. These pointers will ensure your homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits are nothing short of perfect:
- Don’t Skip Melting the Butter First: This step might seem obvious, but it is absolutely crucial for creating the perfect garlic butter topping. Cold butter will not mix easily with garlic powder, resulting in clumps and an uneven application. Instead, melt the butter thoroughly and combine it with the garlic powder as soon as your biscuits go into the oven. This way, your flavorful topping will be perfectly warm and ready to generously brush onto your freshly baked, piping hot biscuits the moment they come out of the oven.
- Avoid Overmixing the Dough: This is a golden rule for making tender biscuits. Overworking the Bisquick dough will activate and develop the gluten too much, which results in tough, dense, and chewy biscuits instead of the light, fluffy, and tender ones you crave. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of Bisquick baking mix remain. A slightly shaggy dough with a few lumps is actually perfectly fine and indicates you haven’t overmixed!
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese offers convenience, it often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder its ability to melt smoothly and can affect the overall texture and creaminess of your biscuits. Freshly grating your cheddar cheese will provide a superior, creamier melt and impart a much richer, more authentic flavor to your homemade biscuits.
- Serve Them Warm: Cheddar Bay Biscuits are undeniably at their absolute best when served warm, straight from the oven. The warmth of the biscuits allows them to absorb the garlic butter topping beautifully, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth experience and releasing their intoxicating aroma. If you have leftovers, gently reheat them as described in the storage section for a revived treat.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your biscuits during their time in the oven. Baking them until they are just golden brown on top is sufficient. Overbaking can quickly dry them out, making them less tender and compromising their delightful texture.
What to Serve with Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits
These semi-homemade Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic savory complement to a wide range of meals. Their buttery, garlicky, and cheesy goodness makes them perfect for soaking up rich sauces, accompanying hearty main courses, or simply enjoying as a delightful snack.
Classic Seafood Pairings
Given their origin as a signature item at Red Lobster, these biscuits are a natural and perfect fit for almost any seafood dish:
- Baked or Grilled Salmon
- Shrimp Scampi or Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Crab Legs or Lobster Tail
- Classic Fish Fry or Fish and Chips
- CrockPot Shrimp and Grits
Soups, Stews & Chili
Their rich, savory profile makes them an ideal accompaniment for dipping into warm, comforting bowls of soup, stew, or chili:
- Crock Pot Spicy Bacon & Beef Chili
- CrockPot Chicken Noodle Soup
- CrockPot Turkey Chili
- CrockPot Camp Stew
- CrockPot Gumbo
- Hearty Tomato Soup or Creamy French Onion Soup
- Any creamy chowder or seafood bisque
Hearty Main Dishes
Elevate your favorite comfort food entrees by pairing them with these flavorful cheesy biscuits:
- Smoked Sausage Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
- CrockPot Meatloaf
- Crock Pot Three Bean Vegetarian Chili
- Classic Roast Chicken or Slow-Cooked Pot Roast
- Grilled Steak or Pork Chops
Side Dishes & Salads
Round out your meal perfectly with these delightful pairings that complement the biscuits’ savory notes:
- BLT Pasta Salad
- Sauerkraut Salad
- CrockPot Stuffed Tomatoes
- Spicy Deviled Eggs
- CrockPot Bourbon Baked Beans
- CrockPot Stuffed Peppers with Cheese
- Cracker Barrel Green Beans
- Loaded Mashed Slow Cooker Cauliflower
- Broccoli Slaw
- A simple, fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
When to Serve Cheesy Biscuits
These incredibly versatile cheesy biscuits aren’t just reserved for dinner; they can be enjoyed at almost any meal or special occasion throughout the day! Their savory appeal makes them a welcome addition anytime:
- Breakfast: Pair them with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or savory sausage for a hearty and flavorful start to your morning. They’re a delicious alternative to plain toast.
- Brunch: A fantastic addition to any elaborate brunch spread, serving as a savory counterpoint alongside quiches, fresh fruit salads, and refreshing mimosas.
- Lunch: Serve them as a delightful side with a light soup or a fresh salad, or even use them to make small, open-faced sandwiches for a quick and satisfying midday meal.
- Dinner: The quintessential side dish for seafood, pasta dishes, hearty stews, and almost any savory main course you can imagine.
- Snack Time: When a savory craving hits between meals, these biscuits are quick to make and incredibly satisfying as a standalone snack.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: They are always an absolute crowd-pleaser and are guaranteed to disappear quickly at any party, potluck, or family gathering.
More Delicious Copycat Recipes to Try
If you love the thrill of recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, then you’ll adore these other popular copycat recipes. They’re sure to impress your taste buds and your guests:
- Chili’s Queso
- Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
- Starbucks Frappuccino
- Cracker Barrel Pancakes
- Sonic Peanut Butter Shake
And don’t forget to explore all of our other Bisquick Recipes for more quick, easy, and family-friendly meal ideas that leverage this versatile baking mix!
Do you love discovering new and exciting recipes? Be sure to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, delightful dessert recipes, and our convenient CrockPot Recipes, perfect for busy days!
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Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
Make your favorite Red Lobster biscuits at home with this easy Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits recipe.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
8 minutes
Total Time:
18 minutes
Servings:
14
Calories:
152
kcal
Author:
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
-
2
cups
Bisquick Baking Mix -
⅔
cup
skim milk -
½
cup
Cheddar Cheese -
½
cup
Butter
Melted -
¼
teaspoon
Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (232°C).
- Mix Bisquick, milk, and cheese until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Drop the dough by the spoonful onto an ungreased baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix melted butter and garlic powder in a small bowl.
- Brush the butter/garlic mixture generously over the warm biscuits before removing them from the cookie sheet. Serve immediately.
Kitchen Tools
- Baking Sheets
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Pastry Brush
- Parchment Paper
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 99
Recipe originally shared October 15, 2012, updated March 16, 2020