If you’re looking for a quick and indulgent recipe, Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the perfect answer! These buttery, cheesy biscuits are baked to golden perfection, with tender ham chunks and melted cheese in every bite. They’re great for breakfast, brunch, or even a snack. Plus, there’s no need to roll or cut dough—these biscuits are made to swim in a pool of melted butter, ensuring a rich, flaky texture every time.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder if using.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the biscuits tender.
- Gently fold in the ham and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Butter
- Pour the melted butter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
- Spoon the dough into the dish on top of the butter. The dough will spread as it bakes, so no need to smooth it out completely.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the biscuits cool slightly before cutting them into squares or serving straight from the pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and buttery goodness makes these biscuits irresistible. They’re easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether for a holiday breakfast or a casual family meal, these biscuits are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Perfect Butter Swim Biscuits
- Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for real butter and freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix: Overworking the dough can result in dense biscuits. Mix until just combined.
- Customize your fillings: Swap out the ham for cooked bacon or sausage, or try a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.
Creative Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and add sautéed spinach or caramelized onions instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
- Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 3/4 cups of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze these biscuits?
- Absolutely! Let the biscuits cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for the best texture.