Name: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup + 2 tablespoons melted butter (divided); 1 heavy teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 13 reviews

If you have ever found yourself craving that irresistible, warm, and cheesy treat from Red Lobster, you’re in for a real treat. This Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe recreates those pillowy, buttery biscuits with bursts of cheddar and hints of garlic and parsley that make them utterly addictive. It’s the perfect recipe to whip up when you want to bring a bit of restaurant magic into your kitchen—these biscuits are so good, you’ll want to eat them straight from the oven, every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows seven small white bowls and a measuring cup arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl contains bright orange shredded cheese, placed in the bottom left. Above it is a bowl filled with white flour. To the right of the flour bowl is a bowl of yellow melted butter. Below the melted butter bowl is a measuring cup filled with white milk. Below the milk cup is a small bowl with green dried herbs. To the right of the herbs is a bowl with light brown granules, and above that is a small bowl with white powder, likely baking powder and salt. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor combination. From the cheesy richness to the tender crumb and that luscious buttery topping, every component is essential to making these biscuits just like the beloved originals.

Flour (2 cups): The base that gives structure and fluffiness to the biscuits.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, bringing balance to the mix.
Baking powder (1 tablespoon): The leavening agent that helps the biscuits rise beautifully.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon + ½ teaspoon): Infuses that irresistible garlicky aroma and taste.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): The star ingredient that adds rich, melty cheesiness.
Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, making the biscuits tender.
Melted butter (½ cup + 2 tablespoons): Keeps biscuits moist and is essential for the buttery garlic topping.
Dried parsley (1 heavy teaspoon): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to the topping.

How to Make Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees, which is key to achieving that golden, slightly crispy exterior. Meanwhile, line an 11×17 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking without altering the biscuit’s texture.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and the initial teaspoon of garlic powder. This combination forms the flavorful dry base that will support the cheese and buttermilk perfectly.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Toss in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until every shred is coated with the flour mixture. This step ensures even distribution so every bite bursts with cheesy goodness without clumping or sinking to the bottom.

Step 4: Combine with Wet Ingredients

Pour in the buttermilk and ½ cup of melted butter. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick, slightly loose dough that’s easy to scoop but still holds shape. This texture is what makes the biscuits tender yet sturdy.

Step 5: Scoop onto the Baking Sheet

Using a ¼ cup measuring scoop or spoon, dollop heavy spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space the biscuits about 2 inches apart—they’ll spread a bit as they bake, so giving them room is important for perfect shape.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden brown top and edges with that familiar flaky texture. The smell by this point will be absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 7: Make the Signature Butter Topping

While the biscuits bake, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter, dried parsley, and garlic powder in a small bowl. This topping is what sets the Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe apart by giving them that shiny, flavorful finish.

Step 8: Brush Biscuits Immediately After Baking

As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, generously brush them with the melted butter mixture. This step locks in moisture and adds the iconic herb and garlic aroma that makes these biscuits so addictive.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the biscuits cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a rack or serving plate. This short cooling time helps them set without drying out, so they stay soft and fluffy inside with a buttery crust.

How to Serve Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with a creamy pale orange and white mixture with a soft texture sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl is a gold fork, partially buried in the mixture, and the bowl is placed on a white and blue checkered cloth. To the upper right of the bowl, there are two small white dishes, one containing a pale yellow liquid and the other filled with small dried green herb flakes. The overall image is bright and clean, with a simple and neat composition. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Although these biscuits are pretty perfect on their own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional shredded cheddar right before serving can add a fresh pop of color and flavor. For a little extra indulgence, try a tiny drizzle of honey butter over the top.

Side Dishes

Pair these cheesy biscuits with classic seafood dishes for that true Red Lobster experience—think buttery lobster tails, garlic shrimp scampi, or a rich chowder. They also complement comfort food favorites like fried chicken, hearty soups, or salads, making them incredibly versatile.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these biscuits in a basket lined with a colorful kitchen towel for rustic charm, or pile them high on a wooden board for a family-style spread. They also work wonderfully as a base for sliders or mini sandwiches, turning this Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe into a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover biscuits (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft but the flavor might mellow slightly, so you might want to reheat them with a bit of butter for freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze these biscuits before baking by scooping the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you always have the Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe ready at a moment’s notice.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen biscuits in a 350-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. For extra crispness, brush with melted butter before reheating to recapture that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This homemade version gives the same tangy moisture to the biscuits.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional and delicious, you can experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a mild mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just choose a good melting cheese for best results.

Are these biscuits gluten-free friendly?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you can try a gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary due to differences in texture and rise.

Why do my biscuits turn out dense?

Dense biscuits usually mean the dough was overmixed or the baking powder was old. Mix just until ingredients come together and make sure your leavening agent is fresh to get those light and fluffy biscuits.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the recipe is easy and works well for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use multiple baking sheets and give them plenty of space in the oven for even baking.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing like the feeling of biting into warm, melty cheddar biscuits that remind you of your favorite seafood spot. This Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe brings that restaurant-quality magic straight into your home kitchen with surprisingly simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re serving them as a side, appetizer, or snack, these biscuits are sure to become a beloved favorite for everyone around your table. Give them a try and get ready to fall in love!