Crispy, cheesy, and infused with garlic, this Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf is an irresistible treat that will elevate any meal. Imagine the comforting flavors of Red Lobster’s famous biscuits, transformed into a shareable, pull-apart loaf that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of sharp cheddar, fragrant garlic, and buttery richness creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply addictive.
What makes this recipe work so well is the balance of ingredients and the simple technique. Cold butter, cut into the flour mixture, creates flaky layers. Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness, while the generous amount of cheddar cheese ensures every bite is packed with cheesy goodness. The final brush of garlic butter takes it over the top! This biscuit loaf is ideal served alongside soups, salads, or your favorite seafood dishes.
Why you’ll love this Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf
- It’s a delicious copycat recipe that captures the iconic flavor of Cheddar Bay Biscuits.
- This ultimate cheddar bay biscuit loaf is incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have.
- The pull-apart loaf format is perfect for sharing and makes for a fun and interactive appetizer.
- It’s ready in under an hour, making it a quick and satisfying side dish for any meal.
- The combination of cheesy, garlicky, and buttery flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- It’s a great way to upgrade your bread basket and add a touch of indulgence to your dinner table.
Ingredients & Substitutions

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Cheddar bay biscuit loaf makes every moment feel satisfying. For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Feel free to use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor. If you’re looking for another type of biscuit, try these blueberry buttermilk biscuits for something sweet!
How to make Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf
Step 1: Prepare for baking
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Step 2: Combine dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, parsley, and dill.
Step 3: Cut in the butter
Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chef’s Tip: Make sure your butter is very cold for the best texture.
Step 4: Add wet ingredients and cheese
Stir in buttermilk and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Transfer to pan and bake
Transfer dough to the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare garlic butter topping
While the loaf is baking, prepare the garlic butter topping by whisking together melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl.
Step 8: Brush and serve
Once the loaf is out of the oven, brush the top with the garlic butter mixture. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for Success
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and buttermilk are key to creating a tender and flaky biscuit loaf.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough will result in a tough biscuit. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust baking time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the loaf and bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it rest: Allow the loaf to cool slightly before slicing and serving to prevent it from crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
This Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf is the perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Serve it alongside hearty soups like chili or tomato soup, or pair it with a fresh salad for a light and satisfying lunch. It’s also a great accompaniment to seafood dishes like shrimp scampi or baked salmon. Consider serving it with these lobster mac and cheese bites!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheddar bay biscuit loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and easy snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this biscuit loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the baked loaf for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add other herbs to the biscuit loaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as chives, rosemary, or thyme to customize the flavor to your liking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve. However, the freshly baked loaf is always best!
This Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. From its cheesy, garlicky goodness to its soft, fluffy texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuit Loaf
Imagine all the cheesy, garlicky goodness of Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits, but in a shareable, pull-apart loaf! This copycat recipe delivers that irresistible flavor and soft, fluffy texture, perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups, salads, or seafood dishes. This biscuit loaf is bursting with cheddar cheese, infused with garlic and herbs, and brushed with melted butter for an extra touch of decadence. Get ready for a bread basket upgrade that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Makes a great appetizer or side dish for family dinners and potlucks.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, parsley, and dill.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in buttermilk and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Transfer dough to the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the loaf is baking, prepare the garlic butter topping by whisking together melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl.
- Once the loaf is out of the oven, brush the top with the garlic butter mixture. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, use cold butter and buttermilk. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. You can substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese for a different flavor. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
