Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Jump to Recipe

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits have earned a cult following for their irresistible blend of savory cheddar, flaky texture, and garlicky richness. If you’ve found yourself dreaming about these golden biscuits after a visit to Red Lobster, you’re not alone. The good news: you can bake them at home, fresh and piping hot, with simple pantry ingredients and a few kitchen tricks.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to recreate these famous biscuits at home—step-by-step instructions, pro tips, troubleshooting guidance, serving ideas, and practical storage strategies. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned biscuit-lover, this guide ensures your homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits taste just as comforting as the originals.

Introduction: Why We Love Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Few restaurant breads inspire loyalty the way Red Lobster’s biscuits do. They arrive at your table still warm, buttery, and laced with just enough garlic to make each bite memorable. Pulling them apart reveals soft layers and melted cheese, while the brushed-on butter topping delivers a burst of flavor you can’t easily forget.

The good news is that these biscuits are quick and easy to make at home. Once you master this copycat recipe, you may never look back.

Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Biscuits

To create authentic Cheddar Bay Biscuits, a handful of accessible ingredients deliver their distinct taste and texture. Each plays a role in balancing flavor, structure, and that signature golden finish.

Main Biscuit Dough:

• Baking mix (Bisquick or similar, or see from-scratch alternative below)
• Freshly-shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Milk or water (see variations)
• Cold unsalted butter

Seasonings:

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried parsley or fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt

Buttery Topping:

• Melted butter
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried parsley
• Salt

Optional: Make It From Scratch

Don’t have baking mix? Blend 2 cups all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Work in 1/4 cup cold butter until crumbly, then proceed as directed.

How To Make Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits are ready from start to finish in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to go from simple ingredients to crave-worthy biscuits.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix The Dough

• In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of baking mix with 1 cup of fresh cheddar.
• Add 3/4 cup milk (or water for a lighter texture).
• Stir until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix—it’s fine if the dough looks a bit shaggy.

Step 3: Portion and Shape

• Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing a couple of inches apart.
• For sky-high biscuits, use a cookie scoop or two spoons, and pile the dough high rather than spreading it wide.

Step 4: Bake

• Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges look crisp.

Step 5: Prepare The Buttery Topping

• While the biscuits bake, melt 1/4 cup butter.
• Stir in 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Brush and Serve

• Remove the biscuits from the oven.
• Immediately brush each biscuit generously with the buttery topping.
• Serve warm and enjoy every garlicky, cheesy bite.

Troubleshooting & Expert Tips

Even easy biscuits benefit from smart technique. These tips help you achieve biscuit perfection:

For Flaky, Tender Biscuits:

• Use cold butter for the dough. If making from scratch, a pastry cutter or even your hands will help distribute it evenly.
• Mix the dough only until combined. Overmixing leads to tough biscuits.

Cheese Matters:

• Always use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has additives that affect melt and taste.
• Try sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or go with a blend like cheddar and Monterey Jack for milder, gooier results.

Buttery Topping Magic:

• Don’t skimp on the butter mixture. It’s what delivers the biscuits’ signature flavor and soft, shiny finish.
• For extra pop, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top after brushing.

Don’t Use Old Bay Seasoning:

Despite the Bay in the name, Cheddar Bay Biscuits don’t call for Old Bay. The “Bay” references the coastal theme, not the seasoning. Stick with garlic for authenticity.

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Variations

Personalizing biscuits is easy—try swapping ingredients or adding your own twist:

• Buttermilk Instead of Milk: Use buttermilk for an extra-tender, tangy crumb.
• Herb Options: Substitute chives, dill, or Italian seasoning for parsley.
• Cheese Swap: Go beyond cheddar with Colby, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique spin.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the dough for a gentle heat.

Table: Quick Ingredient Reference

Serving Suggestions

Cheddar Bay Biscuits can be the highlight of many meals, not just seafood. Here are a few ideas on what to pair with these flaky, cheesy bites:

With Seafood:

• Classic with shrimp scampi, fried fish, or clam chowder

Beyond Seafood:

• Serve with chili, tomato soup, or a hearty salad
• Make biscuit breakfast sandwiches: Split biscuits and fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage
• Use as a base for shortcakes with savory fillings, like ham and cheddar or turkey and cranberry

Entertaining Tip:

Layer a bread basket with fresh herbs. Stack the warm biscuits high, and offer extra melted butter on the side.

Storing and Reheating

Enjoy Cheddar Bay Biscuits right out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, storage is simple:

• At Room Temperature: Keep biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Arrange cooled biscuits in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive their crispness. For individual biscuits, a toaster oven works well.
• Restore Softness: Before serving, brush with a bit more melted butter to refresh the flavor.

Common Questions About Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a gluten-free baking mix, and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I prep the dough ahead of time?
For best results, bake right before serving. If needed, you can portion the dough onto the baking sheet, cover, and chill for up to 2 hours until ready to bake.

What’s the trick to fluffy biscuits?
Cold ingredients and a light touch. Handle the dough as little as possible.

Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a comfort food classic for a reason. Whether you’re making them as a side for seafood or as the main event at a family breakfast, this homemade recipe brings the restaurant experience into your kitchen. Customize the cheese, amp up the herbs, or double the recipe—however you make them, these biscuits might just steal the show at your table.