Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
There’s something magical about sinking your teeth into a warm, buttery biscuit, especially one that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and seasoned to perfection. If you’ve ever dined at Red Lobster, you know exactly what I mean. Their Cheddar Bay Biscuits are an iconic part of the experience, and today, I’m excited to bring that magic right into your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe for Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delectable treats that are perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Once you whip up a batch of these Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits, you’ll understand why they are worth making again and again. They are incredibly easy to prepare, take only about 30 minutes from start to finish, and can be served alongside a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a seafood dinner, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a snack, these biscuits will quickly become a go-to recipe. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked biscuits will fill your home, making it feel warm and inviting.
Ingredient Rundown
To create these mouthwatering biscuits, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our biscuits, providing structure and a delightful crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Our leavening agent, helping the biscuits rise and become fluffy.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – This adds a savory depth that’s essential in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – For a hint of spice that complements the cheddar.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a lovely smoky flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – This gives the biscuits their rich, buttery taste.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Ensures the biscuits are tender and moist.
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded – The star ingredient that makes these biscuits cheesy and delicious.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley – For a touch of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you get started, gather the following tools and equipment:
- Mixing bowls – A couple of medium and large bowls will help you combine the ingredients effectively.
- Whisk – Perfect for blending dry ingredients together.
- Rubber spatula – Great for folding in the cheese gently without overmixing.
- Baking sheet – Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Oven – Preheated to 425°F for optimal biscuit baking.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making your own Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined. This ensures that all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mixture. Make sure the cheese is coated in flour; this helps keep it from sinking to the bottom of the biscuits during baking.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and buttermilk. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop generous amounts of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread slightly, so give them some room!
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
Step 8: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping
While the biscuits are baking, melt a tablespoon of butter and mix in a pinch of garlic powder and smoked paprika. This will be brushed over the biscuits right after they come out of the oven for that signature flavor.
Step 9: Brush and Serve
Once the biscuits are golden brown and baked through, remove them from the oven and immediately brush with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with dried parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
In-Season Swaps
Feel free to customize these biscuits based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences:
- Fresh herbs: Swap out dried parsley for fresh chives or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Add-ins: Fold in cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for an extra flavor punch.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
Making these Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits is straightforward, but here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough biscuits. Mix until just combined.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate results.
- Skipping the garlic butter topping: This is what gives the biscuits that signature flavor, so don’t skip it!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your biscuits fresh and delicious, consider these tips:
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each biscuit tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
What can I serve with these biscuits?
These biscuits pair wonderfully with soups, stews, salads, or even as a side to grilled meats. They are versatile and complement a wide range of dishes.
Can I use low-fat buttermilk?
Yes, you can use low-fat buttermilk, but keep in mind that it may slightly affect the richness and texture of the biscuits.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
Weekend Projects
If you’re inspired to take your baking adventures further, check out these delightful recipes:
Final Thoughts
Creating your own Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits at home is not just a fun cooking project, but it also brings a taste of restaurant magic right into your kitchen. These biscuits are flaky, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Plus, the satisfaction of making such a beloved dish from scratch is truly rewarding. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for a baking experience that will leave you wanting more!
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter and buttermilk. Whisk until thoroughly combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop generous amounts of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
- While the biscuits are baking, melt a tablespoon of butter and mix in a pinch of garlic powder and smoked paprika.
- Once the biscuits are golden brown, remove them from the oven and immediately brush with the garlic butter mixture.
- Sprinkle with dried parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, freeze wrapped biscuits for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
