Ham Cheese Butter Biscuits

These ham cheese butter swim biscuits have become a go to brunch treat in my kitchen. The combination of salty ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and rich butter baked into a fluffy biscuit makes for a crowd pleasing dish that comes together with minimal fuss. They are perfect when you want something comforting yet special to share with family or friends on a weekend morning.

I first made these during a casual brunch with friends and they quickly became the highlight everyone kept asking for each week

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: Two cups which is the foundation providing structure and tenderness in your biscuits
• Baking powder: One tablespoon to help the biscuits rise and become light be sure it is fresh for best results
• Salt: Half a teaspoon enhances the overall flavor balancing the richness of ham and cheese
• Unsalted butter: Quarter cup melted using unsalted lets you control the saltiness better plus it contributes to a crisp buttery base
• Buttermilk: One cup adds moisture and a slight tang that brightens the flavor while helping create a tender crumb
• Diced ham: One cup supply a savory salty note making these biscuits hearty and satisfying
• Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup brings sharpness and gooey melted pockets of flavor inside each biscuit
• Chopped chives: Quarter cup are optional but add a fresh oniony pop and color choose fresh bright green chives without wilting

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:

Set the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. This high heat is important so your biscuits rise properly and get a golden crust. Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly into the bottom of a 9 by 13inch baking dish. This butter layer will create a rich crispy bottom that makes these biscuits extra special.

Whisk Together Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl mix together the flour baking powder and salt until fully combined. This ensures the leavening is distributed evenly so the biscuits rise uniformly and have a consistent texture throughout.

Combine Wet Ingredients Separately:

In a smaller bowl mix buttermilk diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. The cheese will melt in the oven creating pockets of gooey goodness and the ham adds meaty flavor.

Gently Fold Wet into Dry Ingredients:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Using a spoon or spatula gently fold together just until you no longer see big pockets of flour. It is very important not to overmix here or the biscuits may turn out tough and dense. Some small lumps are perfectly fine and will give the best tender texture.

Spoon Dough into Dish:

Drop big spoonfuls of the biscuit dough on top of the melted butter in your baking dish. Spread them evenly leaving a little room between each. The dough will spread slightly while baking forming biscuits that are soft yet connected when served. Slide the dish into your now hot oven.

Bake Until Golden and Serve Warm:

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes keeping an eye on the biscuits until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through the middle. The smell will be heavenly and a good sign that your biscuits have reached biscuit nirvana. Take them out and let cool a few minutes before serving.

Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts into luscious pockets that add bursts of sharp flavor in every bite. I remember serving these at a family gathering where my nephew exclaimed they were better than any restaurant biscuits he had tried. That little moment made me realize that simple homemade food can create lasting joyful memories.

Storage Tips

Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them by placing the biscuits on a baking sheet in a single layer then transferring them to a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to eat, reheat the biscuits in the oven for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have buttermilk, make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for five minutes. Swiss cheese or gouda can replace cheddar for a milder or creamier flavor. Feel free to swap the diced ham with cooked bacon or cooked sausage for variation.

Serving Suggestions

These biscuits are wonderful served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. For a heartier meal slice them in half and add a fried egg and avocado for a satisfying breakfast sandwich. They also pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or soup for a light lunch or brunch.

Serve warm straight from the oven for best texture and flavor. These biscuits also freeze well so you can enjoy them any day.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What makes these biscuits rise well?

Baking powder combined with buttermilk provides the leavening needed for a fluffy, tender texture.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, Swiss, pepper jack, or gouda can be used to add unique flavors to the biscuits.

→ Why is melted butter poured in the baking dish?

The melted butter creates a rich, crispy bottom crust that enhances flavor and texture.

→ How can I store leftover biscuits?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is it important not to overmix the dough?

Avoid overmixing to prevent tough biscuits; mixing just until combined keeps them tender.