Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (2024)

Delight in our Cheddar Bay Biscuits where these beautiful light and flaky, garlicky cheddar drop biscuits are glistening with butter and speckled with parsley. They are slightly crisp on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside. This Red Lobster Copycat Recipe is crazy good.

The best part is these cheesy biscuits are so easy to make, it only takes one bowl, one whisk, and 20 minutes! Yes, only 20 minutes from start till serve with simple ingredients and hardly any dishes to wash!!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (1)

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

I’m not sure if I’ve ever had a biscuit as flaky, moist, and tender as those Red Lobster biscuits. You can tell just by looking at them!!

I’m obsessed with the golden brown coloring and the flavor of these buttery biscuits.

The robust, savory seasonings both inside and out are out of this world — and I bet you already have them in your pantry right now!!

This is one of those biscuit recipes that you keep on hand to serve and prepare any time of year.

Since we’re talking Red Lobster bread, why not serve it with a Red Lobster main course?

Since these cheesy biscuits literally taste just like they came from the restaurant, pair them with a copycat main dish, too.

Shrimp scampi comes with a phenomenal white wine lemon sauce that you can soak right up with the biscuits – my mouth is watering just thinking about it!!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (2)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Flour, Baking Powder, and a pinch of Sugar – No boxed mix in sight! Perfect proportions for perfectly puffy biscuits.

Garlic Powder – A tablespoon is all you need for wonderful, garlicky goodness. If it isn’t a strong enough flavor for you, I recommend adding some garlic powder to some melted butter at the end to brush over top – that way, you won’t overdo it in the batter. You could even add onion powder.

Butter – you can use room temperature but for ease of preparation I used melted butter to prepare this recipe. It comes together so much easier.

Whole Milk – For a dairy-free substitute, replace with an equal measurement of any non-dairy milk. You can also use buttermilk! Heavy cream, however, is not a good substitute.

Cheddar Cheese – Go ahead and throw in your favorite shredded cheese! I personally enjoy spicing things up with Pepper Jack.

Dried Parsley – I actually wouldn’t use fresh herbs for this one. Dried herbs are far stronger, keep better, and penetrate the flavor of the butter more effectively.

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (3)

Variations

Use garlic butter – Because why not?

Topping these cheese biscuits with a garlic buttery topping sounds like the perfect way to enjoy bite after bite of this fluffy texture.

Turn them into easy drop biscuits – If you don’t want to keep the same shape as the Red Lobster Biscuit recipes does, you don’t have to.

You can easily just add a spoonful of the dough of these homemade cheddar bay biscuits to your prepared baking sheet and bake.

How To Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare – Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk until combined.

Step 4: Add the wet ingredients – Add the melted butter and milk.

Step 5: Fold in the cheese – Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Helpful Tips & Tricks for Making This Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuit Recipe

  • For Extra Rich Biscuits – Add more butter to the tops of each biscuit after baking if you want ridiculously flavorful, decadent Red Lobster biscuits.

    Like I mentioned above, you can add more garlic to the butter if you want to enhance those flavors.

  • A Bit of Heat – A small amount of cayenne adds a kick to these biscuits and goes well with the other seasonings we already have thrown into the mix.
  • Try A Muffin Tin – A neat trick recommended by one of our readers is to make this cheddar bay biscuit recipe in a muffin tin!

    The butter melts all the way down and makes the biscuit even more moist and rich than the original.

  • Useful Equipment to Have – A baking sheet lined with parchment paper is a given, while a basting brush will really help to spread that delicious butter all over!

    And actually, I find it best to drop the biscuits from 2 tablespoons (grease them first!) rather than using a scoop — you get a terrific texture that way!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (4)

Storing and Reheating Red Lobster Biscuits

Not many people think that Cheddar Bay Biscuits need to be refrigerated – and they don’t! Technically.

However, biscuits stay moist and tender longer if kept in the fridge, up to 4 days. They keep for 3 days on the counter.

They can also be frozen for up to 3 months! (just add them to a freezer bag!)

The key to keeping these cheddar biscuits fresh and delicious is to store them in an airtight container.

Reheating is best done in the oven. Pop them back in at a lower temperature – closer to 325°F – until warmed.

You can top with a bit more butter and broil for just a moment to get that glorious texture back!

The microwave works well, too, and keeps those biscuits nice and moist. However, some of the texture is lost.

I recommend eating these warm biscuits with a delicious butter mixture or dipping the flaky biscuits in a bowl of piping hot soup. (there is honestly no wrong way to eat these flavorful biscuits!)

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (5)

Cheddar Bay Biscuits FAQ

What are Cheddar Bay Biscuits made of?

It’s actually so simple for such a scrumptious side dish! You’re going to be shocked that making copycat cheddar bay biscuits was so simple to do. And I can guarantee that the first time that you make this easy recipe isn’t going to be the last time.

You just need flour, baking powder, some common seasonings, and cheese. It’s really the method that makes the Red Lobster biscuits so fantastic!

Using your own kitchen to create these legendary cheddar bay biscuits is one of the best feelings in the world. And the whole time that they’re baking in the oven, you’ll be counting down the bake time until you get your very first bite.

Why are they called Cheddar Bay Biscuits?

The name dates alllll the way back – to the 90s!

They were described as “hot cheese garlic bread” and listed alongside all their other sides. They became rapidly popular, so the side dish was given its own name, and the Cheddar Bay Biscuit was born!

What do you serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuits?

A better question would be – what don’t you serve with this cheddar bay biscuit recipe??

Even if you’re not enjoying a Red Lobster main course, this bread goes with virtually anything you’d eat with biscuits.

So, if you want something alongside omelets or any other breakfast dish, go with these buttery bad boys! (In fact, try using this recipe in my sausage gravy and drop biscuits skillet!)

And, of course, beef and poultry are always happy to have some garlic bread on their plates. A meal like this needs some roasted veggies on the side, like these brussels sprouts.

And, finally, my personal confession… I like to eat these with a chicken salad. In fact, the salad is more of a side when I order it at the restaurant because the main course is those biscuits!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (6)

Enjoy!
With love, from our simple kitchen to yours.

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Cheddar Bay Biscuits Copycat + Video

Donna Elick

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are light and tender with a buttery, garlicky flavor! Make my copycat Red Lobster biscuits recipe in just 20 minutes!

5 stars from 4 reviews

Tried this recipe?Please comment and review!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 8 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Method Oven

Servings 18 rolls

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Add 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter in a small microwave-safe mixing bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds or until butter is melted. Set aside.

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

  • Add melted butter and milk and whisk just until flour is all wet, do not over mix.

  • Add cheese and fold in with a spoon.

  • Drop heaping spoonfuls onto baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until biscuits are golden brown.

  • Meanwhile, melt remaining 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) of butter in small mixing bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds or until butter is melted.

  • Add 1/4 teaspoon salt and parsley. Stir with a pastry brush.

  • Remove biscuits from oven, brush with melted butter mixture. Serve and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 182cal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 257mg | Sugar: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 1mg

All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe’s nutritional value will vary depending on the ingredients used, measuring methods, and portion sizes.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (13)

Originally published October 2013, updated and republished October 2023

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link your price will remain the same and The Slow Roasted Italian will automatically receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us, it helps us keep creating new recipes.

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Cheddar Bay Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat Recipe) + Video (2024)

FAQs

What makes the Red Lobster biscuits so unique? ›

The Cheddar Bay Biscuits at Red Lobster are known for their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, which make them a popular favorite. Here's what makes them so appealing: Flavorful Ingredients: These biscuits are loaded with flavorful ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and butter.

Can I use milk instead of water in Red Lobster biscuit mix? ›

I waitressed at Red Lobster for a short time, and while they do use ice water in their mix, I've always enjoyed it much more using regular 2% milk in the same quantity. The biscuits come out a little fluffier and taste just like the real thing.

What makes Cheddar Bay biscuits so good? ›

Baking Powder: For a biscuit that is airy and flaky, baking powder is key! Garlic Powder: Garlic is a must for that perfect savory flavor in your Cheddar Bay biscuits! Salt: Enhances overall flavor. Buttermilk: Buttermilk is what makes these biscuits so rich and soft!

What did Red Lobster serve before Cheddar Bay biscuits? ›

Fans Swimming In The Cheddar Bay For Over 30 Years

Before Cheddar Bay Biscuits, Red Lobster was peddling hush puppies, and fans weren't super into it. The restaurant replaced the underperforming item with the garlicky, cheesy biscuits fans crave today.

Does Red Lobster bake their biscuits? ›

Today, thousands of team members across North America help Red Lobster bake nearly one million biscuits every day, putting a fresh batch in the oven approximately every 15-20 minutes.

What are the ingredients in red lobster biscuits? ›

INGREDIENTS: Enriched Bleached Flour (Wheat Flour, Malted Barley Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Palm And Soybean Oil, Less Than 2% Of: Baking Soda, Salt, Sodium Aluminum Phosphate, Monocalcium Phosphate, Dextrose, Buttermilk, Ascorbic Acid, Enzymes.

How do you doctor up cheddar Bay biscuit mix? ›

Cheese: Use three ounces (or about ¾ cup) of shredded Cheddar cheese. Butter: A stick of melted butter lends richness and flavor. Seasonings: These flavorful Cheddar bay biscuits are flavored with garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and dried parsley.

What happens if you use water instead of milk in biscuits? ›

The flavor will definitely be affected, but in theory the texture should be the same if you use equivalent amounts of both fat and water. Biscuits are basically the same thing as scones, so you may be able to find a scone recipe you like if you can't find a biscuit one.

What are cheddar Bay biscuits made of? ›

Cheddar Bay Biscuits FAQ

You just need flour, baking powder, some common seasonings, and cheese. It's really the method that makes the Red Lobster biscuits so fantastic! Using your own kitchen to create these legendary cheddar bay biscuits is one of the best feelings in the world.

Did Red Lobster invent Cheddar Bay biscuits? ›

Cheddar Bay biscuits were invented by Red Lobster executive chef Kurt Hankins, sometime in the late eighties or early nineties. The biscuits were created to be a complimentary item—like Olive Garden's endless breadsticks—that would make guests feel welcome.

Why are they called Cheddar Bay biscuits? ›

Fun Fact: Why Are They Called Cheddar Bay Biscuits? According to Red Lobster, these famous biscuits were first introduced as 'Freshly baked, hot cheese garlic bread'. After five years the name was later changed to Cheddar Bay Biscuits in order to “reflect the seaside atmosphere of Red Lobster restaurants.”

What is the secret to an excellent biscuit? ›

Do not Overwork Biscuit Dough. Handle the dough as little as possible. Every time you touch, knead and fold, you are developing gluten. The more developed the gluten, the tougher the biscuit.

Is there honey in Red Lobster biscuits? ›

Biscuit Mix Ingredients: Enriched Bleached Flour (Wheat Flour, Malted Barley Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Palm and Soybean Oil, Leavening (Baking Soda, Sodium Aluminum Phosphate, Monocalcium Phosphate), Sugar, Salt, Dextrose, Honey Powder, Buttermilk, Ascorbic Acid, Enzymes ...

Who owns Red Lobster now? ›

Golden Gate Capital became Red Lobster's parent company when it was acquired from Darden Restaurants on July 28, 2014.

What to pair with Cheddar Bay biscuits? ›

The best side dishes to serve with Cheddar Bay Biscuits are scrambled eggs, pulled pork, bacon, gravy, chicken pot pie, clam chowder, grilled cheese sandwich, shepherd's pie, fried chicken, and lobster bisque Do you agree?

What do red lobster biscuits taste like? ›

Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a classic American dish that are known for their flaky, buttery texture and their cheesy, garlicky flavor. They are made with a simple biscuit dough that is enriched with cheddar cheese and then brushed with a garlic butter mixture before baking.

Who invented the biscuits at Red Lobster? ›

Cheddar Bay biscuits were invented by Red Lobster executive chef Kurt Hankins, sometime in the late eighties or early nineties. The biscuits were created to be a complimentary item—like Olive Garden's endless breadsticks—that would make guests feel welcome.

Where did Red Lobster biscuits come from? ›

In 1992, Red Lobster introduced its now famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits, developed by culinary leader Kurt Hankins.

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