There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, cheesy biscuits fresh out of the oven. And when those biscuits happen to be buttery, garlicky, and packed with melty cheddar, it’s pretty much love at first bite. That’s exactly what you get with these homemade Red Lobster Biscuits—a spot-on copycat of the beloved Red Lobster original. If you’ve ever dined at the popular seafood chain, chances are you’ve fallen for their complimentary basket of biscuits before the main dish even arrives. Honestly, who hasn’t?
I remember the first time I tried them—soft, golden, savory pillows of dough with just the right hint of garlic and a burst of cheddar in every bite. I went to Red Lobster for shrimp scampi but left talking about the biscuits. Sound familiar? I was determined to recreate that same magic at home, and after trying a few different approaches, this version became my go-to. What I love most is that it doesn’t take much effort at all. With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Yes, really.
This recipe is perfect for so many occasions. Hosting a family dinner? Serve these on the side, and watch them disappear. Want to bring something special to a potluck? These biscuits travel well and win hearts. Or maybe you just want something warm and cozy on a rainy day—trust me, these will hit the spot. They’re a little indulgent, delightfully savory, and absolutely satisfying.
So if you’ve been craving that Red Lobster magic without leaving your kitchen, this recipe is your golden ticket. Whether you’re already a baking pro or just getting started, this one is foolproof, fun to make, and endlessly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Red Lobster Biscuits
Let’s start with the obvious reason—these biscuits are a flavor bomb in the best possible way. You get the rich, sharp taste of cheddar cheese balanced with buttery goodness and just the right amount of garlicky depth. Each biscuit is tender on the inside with a golden, slightly crisp edge on the outside. That contrast of textures is a big part of what makes them so addictive.
Another reason you’ll love this recipe? It’s incredibly easy. If you’re using Bisquick or any baking mix, the prep takes less than 10 minutes. Even if you go the from-scratch route with flour and baking powder, it’s still straightforward and manageable. There’s no yeast involved, so you don’t have to worry about rise time. Just mix, drop, bake, and brush with garlic butter. Done and delicious.
These biscuits are also very forgiving. You don’t need to worry about perfectly shaped dough or precise measurements. In fact, the “drop” biscuit method means they’re intentionally a bit rustic-looking, which adds to their charm. Plus, they’re ready in under 25 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
They’re also endlessly versatile. Serve them alongside a bowl of creamy soup, pair them with grilled chicken, or simply enjoy one as a snack with a hot cup of tea. You can even add your own twist—maybe a dash of cayenne for a little heat, or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for a Mediterranean feel.
But beyond the practicality and flavor, there’s something nostalgic about these biscuits. They feel like comfort food in the truest sense. Whether it’s the warm oven aroma, the first bite into the fluffy center, or the buttery garlic glaze melting into every crevice, these biscuits just make you feel good. And that’s reason enough to bake a batch today.
Health Benefits Red Lobster Biscuits
Now, you might be thinking—can cheesy, buttery biscuits really offer health benefits? The answer is yes, especially when enjoyed in moderation and when you’re mindful of the ingredients you use. Let’s break it down a bit.
First, cheddar cheese isn’t just about flavor. It’s a good source of high-quality protein and calcium, both essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Cheese also provides vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts the immune system. When used in a reasonable amount like in this recipe, it offers both nutrition and satisfaction.
Next, let’s talk about garlic. That little pinch of garlic powder isn’t just for taste—it comes with powerful health perks. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and has been shown to support heart health by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. While the amount used here is small, every bit adds up, especially when incorporated into a balanced diet.
If you decide to make these biscuits from scratch rather than using a mix, you have even more control over the nutritional content. For example, using whole wheat flour can add fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you full longer. You can also opt for a reduced-fat cheese or substitute part of the butter with olive oil to lighten things up while still keeping them delicious.
Portion control also plays a big role. These biscuits are rich and flavorful, so one or two can satisfy your craving without going overboard. Pairing them with a lean protein and a side of vegetables makes for a balanced and wholesome meal.
Finally, there’s the mental health aspect. Comfort food has a place in a healthy lifestyle when it brings joy and satisfaction. Baking something from scratch, filling your kitchen with warm aromas, and sharing homemade food with loved ones—these experiences nourish your well-being in ways that go beyond calories.
So while these biscuits may feel indulgent, they can absolutely be part of a health-conscious approach when prepared and enjoyed mindfully.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information Red Lobster Biscuits
Let’s get down to the practical details, because I know how important it is to plan ahead—especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule or cooking for a group.
Preparation Time:
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: About 22 minutes
These biscuits are designed to be fast and fuss-free. From mixing to baking to brushing with that irresistible garlic butter, the whole process takes less than half an hour.
Servings:
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Yield: 10 to 12 biscuits, depending on the size of your scoops
This is the perfect amount for a family dinner or a small gathering. If you’re hosting a larger group, you can easily double the recipe. Leftovers, if you have any, also reheat beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit):
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Calories: 190
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Protein: 4 grams
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Carbohydrates: 18 grams
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Fat: 11 grams
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Saturated Fat: 6 grams
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Cholesterol: 25 mg
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Sodium: 340 mg
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Fiber: 1 gram
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Sugar: 1 gram
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on your ingredients and portion sizes. Using lower-fat cheese or cutting back a bit on butter can help reduce the fat and calorie content. On the flip side, adding extra cheese or butter—no judgment here—will increase richness and calories.
Ingredients List Red Lobster Biscuits
The beauty of this Red Lobster Biscuits lies in its simplicity. You don’t need anything fancy or hard to find. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry or fridge, which means you can satisfy that biscuit craving any time it strikes.
Here’s what you’ll need:
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2 cups Bisquick baking mix (or your favorite baking mix)
This is the base of your dough. It already contains flour, baking powder, and a bit of fat, so it saves time without compromising texture. -
2/3 cup milk
Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even a dairy-free alternative if needed. -
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar is the go-to here for maximum flavor. Feel free to try white cheddar or a blend of cheeses if you’d like a twist. -
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Butter is key for that golden finish and tender crumb. You’ll use some in the dough and some for brushing on top. -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Just enough to give a warm, savory kick without overpowering the other flavors. -
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
A little touch of green for color and a hint of herbiness. Fresh parsley works too if you have it.
If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, don’t worry. You can make your own quick version using the following:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup vegetable shortening or cold butter
🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions Red Lobster Biscuits
If there’s one thing that can steal the spotlight at dinner — even next to buttery lobster tails — it’s these golden, cheesy, garlicky Cheddar Bay Biscuits. They’re soft and tender on the inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and brushed with melted garlic-parsley butter that seals the deal.
Here’s a detailed, foolproof guide to making them from scratch at home:
1: Preheat the Oven
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Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and let it fully preheat. A hot oven ensures your biscuits rise quickly and get that beautiful golden top.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: If your oven tends to run hot or cold, using an oven thermometer is a game-changer for baked goods like these.
2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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2 cups of Bisquick mix
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Give it a quick stir to evenly distribute the garlic flavor throughout the mix.
💬 No Bisquick? No problem.
You can make a quick homemade version using:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cold butter or shortening, cut into the flour until crumbly
3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in:
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2/3 cup of milk (any kind — whole milk makes them richer)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to gently mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix — you want to just bring everything together.
👩🍳 Pro Tip: Shred your cheese fresh from the block for better melt and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect consistency.
4: Drop the Dough
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Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Space them about 2 inches apart. You should get about 10 to 12 biscuits depending on the size.
📝 Note: These are drop biscuits, so no need to roll or shape the dough. Rustic is the look we’re going for — it’s all part of the charm!
5: Bake Until Golden
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Place the biscuits in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the bottoms look slightly browned.
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Keep an eye on them after 8 minutes to avoid overbaking.
⏲️ Every oven is a bit different, so your bake time may vary slightly. Trust the color and the delicious smell.
6: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the biscuits are baking, make the magic touch that takes them from tasty to absolutely irresistible.
In a small bowl, mix:
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1/4 cup melted butter
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Stir until the parsley is well dispersed.
7: Brush and Serve
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As soon as the biscuits come out of the oven, brush the tops generously with the garlic butter mixture.
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This step infuses the biscuits with flavor and gives them that glossy, golden sheen.
🧈 Extra butter mixture? Save it to brush on just before serving or for dipping!
Bonus Step: Make It Your Own (Optional)
Want to level things up a notch? Try one of these variations:
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the dough.
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Herb Blend: Mix in chopped chives or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
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Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar.

🍽️ How to Serve Red Lobster Biscuits
These Red Lobster Biscuits aren’t just a side — they’re a full experience. Warm, cheesy, and garlicky with a buttery top, they bring serious comfort food vibes to any table.
Here are a few favorite ways to serve them:
🥣 As a Starter
Serve them fresh out of the oven in a breadbasket lined with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm. Pair with a small ramekin of whipped butter or extra garlic butter for dipping.
🍲 With a Cozy Soup or Stew
The buttery, cheesy goodness makes them a perfect match for:
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Creamy potato soup
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Hearty beef stew
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Classic chicken noodle soup
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Thick, indulgent clam chowder
Use them to soak up all that brothy goodness. No spoon required.
🍤 Alongside Seafood or Grilled Meat
These biscuits were born to be served next to:
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Grilled shrimp or shrimp scampi
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Garlic butter chicken
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Salmon fillets
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Fried or grilled fish
Their slight crispiness and rich, cheesy flavor provide just the right contrast.
🥗 With a Light Salad
Pair with a crisp arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Bonus points for adding fresh herbs or roasted nuts.
🍳 At Brunch
Yes, brunch! Serve them split and stuffed with scrambled eggs and turkey sausage for a savory breakfast biscuit sandwich.
🍷 Pairing Suggestions
Even though the original biscuits come from a seafood restaurant, these flaky treats are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide range of flavors. Here’s how to complete the meal — no matter the time of day.
🧉 Drinks
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Sparkling lemon mint water: Refreshing and balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
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Iced hibiscus tea (Karkade): Slightly tart and fruity, it pairs wonderfully with garlic and cheddar.
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Lemon iced tea or apple cider also make great non-alcoholic options.
🥘 Main Courses
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Grilled chicken or turkey steaks with herb butter: The herby profile complements the garlic-parsley in the biscuit topping.
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Garlic lemon shrimp: For that classic Red Lobster vibe.
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Baked fish with breadcrumbs and lemon zest: A light, flaky main dish to pair with the hearty biscuit texture.
🥗 Side Dishes
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Roasted garlic potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes.
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Crisp coleslaw with a tangy vinaigrette.
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Corn on the cob with paprika butter.
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Steamed green beans or sauteed spinach for something fresh and light.
🧀 Tip: When serving with rich main dishes, pair with something light and acidic (like a cucumber salad) to keep the whole plate balanced.
🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
Made a big batch? Lucky you! These biscuits store and reheat beautifully, so don’t worry if there are extras — future you will thank you.
📦 Storage (Fridge)
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Store completely cooled biscuits in an airtight container or resealable bag.
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Keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
🧈 Pro Tip: Store with a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture and keep them from getting soggy.
❄️ Freezing
These biscuits are freezer-friendly! Here’s how to freeze them:
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Let them cool completely.
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Place them on a baking sheet and flash-freeze for about 1 hour.
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Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
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Freeze for up to 2 months.
You can also freeze the unbaked dough (already portioned) if you’d like freshly baked biscuits on demand. Just bake them from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.
🔥 Reheating
To keep that fresh-baked flavor, try one of these reheating methods:
Oven (Best Method)
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Preheat to 350°F (177°C).
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Place biscuits on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
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Warm for 8–10 minutes, then brush with a little extra butter.
Microwave (Quickest)
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Wrap a biscuit in a damp paper towel.
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Microwave for 15–20 seconds. They’ll be warm and soft again, though slightly less crisp.
Toaster Oven
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Heat at 325°F for about 7–8 minutes.
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This method brings back some of the biscuit’s crispy edge.
🧡 These Cheddar Bay-style biscuits are the kind of side that makes a meal feel like a celebration — even if it’s just a regular Tuesday night. Whether you’re serving them fresh, freezing for later, or warming them up with a pat of butter, they never lose their charm.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though these Cheddar Bay Biscuits are pretty much foolproof, there are a few easy-to-miss mistakes that can affect your final result. Here’s what to watch for to make sure your biscuits turn out golden, fluffy, and full of flavor every single time.
1. Overmixing the Dough
This one’s big. Overmixing can make your biscuits dense and tough instead of soft and fluffy. Once your dough comes together, stop mixing! It’s okay if the dough looks a little lumpy — that’s normal.
2. Not Measuring the Cheese Properly
Too much cheese might sound like a good thing, but it can make the biscuits greasy. On the flip side, too little cheese and you’ll miss out on that signature cheesy richness. Use a proper measuring cup and go for freshly shredded cheddar if you can — it melts better and gives a smoother texture.
3. Skipping the Garlic Butter Brush
Don’t skip this step! That garlic butter brushed over the hot biscuits is what really seals the deal. It adds moisture, flavor, and that extra “wow” factor that makes them taste just like Red Lobster’s.
4. Using Cold Butter in the Topping
Make sure your butter is fully melted before mixing in the garlic powder and parsley. This helps the topping spread evenly and soak into the warm biscuits.
5. Baking Too Long
Every oven runs a little differently, so keep an eye on your biscuits starting around the 8-minute mark. They should be lightly golden on top and slightly firm to the touch. Overbaking dries them out quickly.
Avoiding these little pitfalls is the secret to biscuit perfection — golden edges, soft centers, and that signature cheesy, garlicky goodness.
💡 Pro Tips
Want to take your Cheddar Bay Biscuits from “yum” to “OMG where have these been all my life?” Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help you level up.
1. Use Cold Milk
Just like when making scones or pie dough, using cold ingredients helps create steam during baking, which gives you a fluffier texture. Keep your milk chilled until you’re ready to mix.
2. Grate Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that prevent melting — and let’s be real, that affects flavor and texture. Grating your own cheddar makes a noticeable difference in gooeyness and taste.
3. Add a Pinch of Sugar
This is a sneaky trick: adding 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to the dough brings out the flavor of the cheese and enhances that golden crust. It won’t taste sweet — just better.
4. Line Your Baking Sheet
For easy cleanup and even baking, line your cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
5. Double the Garlic Butter
If you love that buttery finish (who doesn’t?), double the garlic butter topping. Brush half on right after baking, then give them a second brush just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven flavor.
6. Keep Them Warm
These biscuits are best when served warm. If you’re prepping ahead, keep them wrapped in foil and pop them back in a low oven (around 200°F) for 5–10 minutes before serving.
With these tips, you’re guaranteed biscuits that disappear faster than you can say “Cheddar Bay.”
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty! Here are the most common questions readers have about making these dreamy Cheddar Bay-style biscuits.
Can I make these without Bisquick?
Yes, you can make your own Bisquick mix using pantry staples! Just combine:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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2 tbsp cold shortening or unsalted butter (cut into the flour)
Blend it all together until it looks like coarse crumbs — and you’ve got a DIY version ready to go.
Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely. While sharp cheddar is classic, you can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a little heat. Just stick to semi-hard cheeses that melt well.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the dough and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 6 hours. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping and baking.
Can I freeze them?
You sure can! Let the biscuits cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen solid, pop them into a zip-top freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. Make sure your cheese and spices are gluten-free too.
Why did my biscuits come out flat?
This usually happens if the dough is too wet or overmixed. Try cutting back slightly on the milk next time and mix just until combined.
Still have questions? Drop them in the comments and I’ll get back to you!
🧁 Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something almost magical about the way these Red Lobster Biscuits come together. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little bit of melted butter love, you get something that feels way fancier than it really is — warm, cheesy, garlicky biscuits that honestly steal the show every time I make them.
I can’t even tell you how many times these have saved me when I needed a quick side for dinner or a last-minute potluck addition. They’re fast, they’re foolproof, and they’re always a hit. My family practically hovers by the oven waiting for the timer to go off. And yes — they absolutely go back for seconds (and thirds).
If you’ve ever had the real deal at Red Lobster and thought, “I could eat these forever,” this recipe’s for you. And if you’ve never tried them before — well, you’re about to see what all the fuss is about.
Now it’s your turn! Go ahead and give this recipe a try — whether you’re serving up shrimp, soup, or just snacking straight from the tray (no judgment here). And when you do, I’d love to hear how it went!
Oh, and if you loved this recipe (or made your own twist on it!), drop a comment below. Your feedback means the world — and it helps more biscuit lovers find this recipe too.
Ready, set, bake — and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite. 🧄🧈🧀
Print
Red Lobster Biscuits
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 10–12 biscuits 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This homemade version of Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits is everything you love about the restaurant favorite—cheesy, buttery, garlicky, and irresistibly soft. Using Bisquick, shredded cheddar, and a simple garlic butter, these come together in less than 20 minutes. Perfect as a side for seafood dinners or soups, or just a cozy snack on their own.
Ingredients
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2 cups Bisquick biscuit mix
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2/3 cup milk
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup melted butter
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet.
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In a bowl, mix Bisquick, milk, and cheddar cheese until a soft dough forms.
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheet.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown.
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While baking, stir garlic powder and parsley into melted butter.
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Brush baked biscuits with garlic butter right out of the oven.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
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For extra richness, add a pinch of paprika to the garlic butter.
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Freshly shredded cheddar melts better and gives more flavor than pre-shredded.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, then reheat briefly in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

Chef Hannah Ellis







