If you’ve ever been to Red Lobster, you know the allure of their warm, cheesy, garlicky Cheddar Bay Biscuits. The moment those fluffy, golden biscuits arrive at your table, it’s hard to resist diving in. But what if you could recreate that magic in your own kitchen? Well, now you can! This copycat recipe brings the beloved biscuits to life with simple ingredients and a few easy steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, including prep and bake time.
Flavorful: A perfect blend of sharp cheddar, garlic, and herbs.
No Special Tools Needed: Just a mixing bowl, spoon, and baking sheet.
Versatile: Great as a side for soups, stews, or your favorite seafood dishes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – The base of your biscuit dough.
Baking Powder (2 tablespoons) – Helps the biscuits rise.
Kosher Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor.
Cold Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup or 1 1/2 sticks) – Cut into small pieces; cold butter creates flaky layers.
Whole Milk (1 3/4 cups) – Adds moisture to the dough.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups) – The star ingredient for that cheesy goodness.
Garlic Powder (3 teaspoons) – Divided; adds that signature garlic flavor.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon) – For a fresh, herby finish.

(Note: A complete list of ingredients with exact measurements is included in the instructions section below.)

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons of garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the whole milk and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Fold in the Cheese

Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form Biscuits

Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.

Step 8: Prepare Garlic Butter

While the biscuits are baking, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and chopped fresh parsley.

Step 9: Brush with Garlic Butter

As soon as the biscuits are out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Serve warm and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

Storage: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven for about 5 minutes.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked biscuits. Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: These biscuits pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a side to your favorite seafood dishes. They’re also great for breakfast with a smear of butter and jam.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can also give these biscuits an extra zing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these biscuits ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Scoop the dough onto the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely. After forming the biscuits, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and filling it with milk up to the 1-cup line. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Certainly! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.

How do I make these biscuits spicier? To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the dough or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the biscuits before baking.

These Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup, a fresh salad, or a seafood feast, they’re sure to be a hit. I’ve made these biscuits countless times, and they never disappoint. They’re quick, easy, and always delicious.

So, the next time you’re craving that Red Lobster experience at home, whip up a batch of these biscuits. They’re guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you coming back for more. Happy baking!