Cheesy Garlic Biscuit Loaf

What’s the secret to Red Lobster’s famous biscuits in a crowd-pleasing loaf form? This homemade cheesy biscuit loaf is a game changer for weeknight dinner, made easy with buttery garlic and a blend of cheddar cheese. Save this idea for your next family favorite meal.

Red Lobster’s Cheesy Biscuit Loaf on a Serving Platter with Text Overlay

Introduction

Imagine a warm, golden-brown biscuit loaf, fresh out of the oven, served on a beautifully arranged platter with a side of marinara sauce or a green salad. This Red Lobster-inspired cheesy biscuit loaf is a masterpiece of comfort food, combining the flakiness of biscuits with the richness of cheese and the simplicity of everyday ingredients. What makes this dish truly special is its ease of preparation, the perfect balance of flavors, and the impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish, a satisfying snack, or a creative centerpiece for your next dinner party, this cheesy biscuit loaf is the perfect choice.

Why This Works

  • Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between the savory flavor of cheese, the slight tang of butter, and the comforting warmth of freshly baked biscuits, all using ingredients that are easily found in most kitchens.
  • Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this cheesy biscuit loaf is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation time and straightforward instructions that anyone can follow.
  • Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of a simple biscuit mix, melted cheese, and a creative presentation turns a basic dish into a show-stopping centerpiece that will leave your guests impressed and wanting more.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include a biscuit or scone mix, grated cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), melted butter, and any additional seasonings or toppings you prefer (like garlic powder, dried herbs, or diced onions). For a more authentic Red Lobster experience, you might consider adding a bit of paprika or parsley on top for color and extra flavor. Practical substitutions can be made with different types of cheese or by using homemade biscuit dough for those who prefer a scratch-made approach.

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare your biscuit mix according to the package instructions, usually involving mixing the dry ingredients with water or milk until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface and knead it gently until it comes together in a cohesive ball.
  2. Step 2: Roll out the biscuit dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a small border around the edges without butter. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the butter, again avoiding the edges. If using, add any additional seasonings or toppings at this stage.
  3. Step 3: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces. Place these pieces, cut side up, in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. You can leave a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking and expansion.
  4. Step 4: Bake the biscuit loaf in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For the final touches, you can brush the top with additional melted butter and sprinkle with grated cheese or parsley. Serve warm, sliced, on a beautifully arranged platter with your choice of accompaniments.

Handy Tips

  • For an extra crispy top, broil the loaf for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  • Consider using different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles. Parmesan, for instance, adds a salty, nutty flavor, while mozzarella provides a smoother, creamier taste.
  • To avoid a dense loaf, don’t overmix the biscuit dough, and make sure to leave enough space between the biscuit pieces in the loaf pan for them to expand during baking.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the cheesy biscuit loaf is 400°F (200°C), and the baking time is approximately 20-25 minutes. The loaf is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped gently on the top. If you’re unsure, you can check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F to 200°F (88°C to 93°C) for fully cooked biscuits.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the crispy, golden-brown edges of the biscuits, contrasted with the soft, cheesy interior. To achieve this, it’s crucial not to overbake the loaf. The slight crunch on the outside should give way to a tender, cheesy center. If you prefer a crisper loaf, you can try baking it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be cautious of overcooking.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

  • For easier handling and a more uniform shape, chill the rolled biscuit log in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing and baking.
  • Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Aged cheeses like cheddar or parmesan have a deeper, richer taste that enhances the overall flavor of the loaf.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices to give your cheesy biscuit loaf a unique twist. Dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add intriguing flavors and aromas.

Storage Tips

  • The baked cheesy biscuit loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  • For freezing, it’s best to freeze the loaf before baking. Simply prepare the loaf up to the point of baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the loaf overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as instructed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cheesy biscuit loaf makes a wonderful gift, especially when presented in a thoughtful and visually appealing way. Consider wrapping the cooled loaf in a decorative towel or placing it in a beautiful basket lined with parchment paper. You can also include a jar of marinara sauce, a block of high-quality cheese, or a packet of fresh herbs to complement the gift. For a more rustic look, wrap the loaf in brown paper and twine, and add a handwritten note with the recipe and baking instructions.

Flavor Variations

  • Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or some dried oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Creative toppings: Before baking, top the loaf with additional grated cheese, chopped nuts, or dried herbs for extra flavor and texture.
  • Ingredient swaps: Substitute the biscuit mix with a homemade dough, or use different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles. You could also add some diced ham or bacon for a savory, meaty flavor.

Troubleshooting

  • Texture problems: If the loaf turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. Try to mix the ingredients just until they come together, and avoid overworking the dough.
  • Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t be afraid to substitute. For example, you can use milk instead of water for a richer biscuit flavor, or add some grated carrot for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the loaf while it’s baking, and check it frequently towards the end of the baking time. If it’s not golden brown after 20 minutes, give it a few more minutes. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover the top with foil to prevent burning.

FAQs

  • Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cheesy biscuit loaf before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed. If freezing after baking, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
  • Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe uses a biscuit mix that contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the biscuit mix with a gluten-free alternative and being mindful of cross-contamination.
  • Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly for a larger loaf.

Conclusion

This Red Lobster-inspired cheesy biscuit loaf is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish, a satisfying snack, or a creative centerpiece for your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation, rich flavor, and impressive presentation, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves cheese, biscuits, and good food. So go ahead, get creative with the recipe, and enjoy the ooohs and aahhs from your family and friends as you present this beautiful, cheesy biscuit loaf on a serving platter with a text overlay that says, “Fresh from the oven, just for you.”

Red Lobster's Cheesy Biscuit Loaf on a Serving Platter with Text Overlay

A warm, golden-brown biscuit loaf filled with melted cheese and served on a beautifully arranged platter, perfect for any occasion.

⏱️ Prep Time
10m
🔥 Cook Time
20m
⏰ Total Time
30m
🍽️ Serves
8-10 servings

🥘 Ingredients

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2
    Prepare the biscuit mix according to the package instructions, then roll it out into a large rectangle.
  3. 3
    Brush the melted butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the butter.
  4. 4
    Roll the dough into a tight log, cut it into 8-10 equal pieces, and place them in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  5. 5
    Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it's golden brown. Let it cool before serving.
  6. 6
    Optional: broil the loaf for an additional 1-2 minutes for a crispy top, or brush with additional melted butter and sprinkle with grated cheese or parsley before serving.

📊 Nutrition

Calories: 250-300 calories per serving

Leave a Comment