Easy Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe with Perfect Sides to Balance Lobster Bisque

If you love the Red Lobster dining experience, you know the Cheddar Bay Biscuits are the star of the show. These biscuits are famous for a reason: they are buttery, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor. The best part is you can easily recreate them at home with simple ingredients and a straightforward recipe. Pairing these rich biscuits with the right sides can elevate your meal, especially when serving a creamy lobster bisque that is rich and indulgent.

This post will guide you through a foolproof copycat recipe for Cheddar Bay Biscuits and suggest fresh, crisp sides that balance the richness of lobster bisque perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or craving a restaurant-style meal at home, this combination will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Freshly baked Cheddar Bay Biscuits with garlic butter topping

How to Make Copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Ingredients for the Biscuit Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• ¾ cup cold milk or buttermilk

  
  

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Topping

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

   
   

2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl: whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and garlic powder.

   
   

1. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers. Work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to flaky biscuits.

   
   

2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir to combine evenly.

   
   

1. Pour in the cold milk and gently mix just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the biscuits tender.

   
   

2. Drop spoonfuls of dough (about ¼ cup each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

   
   

1. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes until the biscuits turn golden brown on top.

   
   

2. Prepare the garlic butter topping by mixing melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley flakes.

   
   

1. Brush the hot biscuits generously with the garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven. This adds the signature flavor and shine.

   
   
   
   

Why These Biscuits Work So Well

The combination of baking powder and baking soda creates a perfect rise and texture. The cold butter ensures flakiness, while the sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold, savory flavor. The garlic powder in both the dough and the butter topping gives these biscuits their unmistakable taste. Using cold milk or buttermilk keeps the dough tender and moist.

This recipe yields about 10 to 12 biscuits, perfect for sharing with family or guests.

Sides That Balance the Richness of Lobster Bisque

Lobster bisque is rich and creamy, often made with heavy cream, butter, and lobster meat. To balance this richness, you want sides that are fresh, crisp, and light. Here are some excellent options:

Classic Garden Salad

• Greens: Use iceberg or romaine lettuce for a crisp base.

• Veggies: Add thin slices of red onion, cucumber, and shredded carrots for crunch and color.

• Extras: Toss in croutons for texture.

• Dressing: Serve with a sharp vinaigrette or Italian dressing. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the bisque and refreshes the palate.

  
  

Steamed or Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus has a natural earthiness and slight bitterness that contrasts well with buttery lobster bisque. Lightly steam or roast with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Citrus Avocado Salad

Combine avocado slices with orange or grapefruit segments, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Dress with a light lemon or lime vinaigrette. The citrus adds acidity and freshness, while the avocado provides creaminess without heaviness.

Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Chop cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, toss with red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This salad is quick to make and offers a juicy, tangy contrast to the rich bisque.

Tips for Serving the Perfect Lobster Bisque Meal

• Serve biscuits warm right out of the oven with the garlic butter brushed on top. They are best enjoyed fresh.

• Keep the salad dressings light and acidic to balance the creamy bisque. Avoid heavy or creamy dressings.

• Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives to garnish both the biscuits and the bisque for added color and flavor.

• Offer lemon wedges on the side to add a fresh burst of acidity to the bisque or sides.

• Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the seafood and buttery flavors.

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts on Recreating the Red Lobster Experience at Home

Making Cheddar Bay Biscuits at home is easier than you think, and the results are deliciously satisfying. These biscuits bring the iconic Red Lobster flavor to your kitchen and pair beautifully with lobster bisque. Adding fresh, crisp sides like a garden salad or citrus avocado salad balances the richness and keeps the meal feeling light and enjoyable.