Skillet Cheddar Biscuits

These fluffy, buttery Skillet Cheddar Biscuits are the ultimate comfort food! Made with sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, and a touch of paprika, these biscuits are baked in a cast iron skillet for the perfect crispy bottom and soft, pillowy inside. They’re the ideal companion to a bowl of soup, a hearty stew, or even just a pat of butter and honey. What makes these biscuits extra special is their homemade buttermilk, which keeps them light and fluffy. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up with just a handful of pantry staples! Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner or a weekend brunch, these golden, cheesy biscuits are guaranteed to impress.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, from the fridge)

• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 large egg

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a small bowl, combine vinegar and milk. Stir and let sit for a few minutes to create buttermilk.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.

4. Grate the cold butter directly into the dry ingredients. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Beat the egg into the buttermilk and add it to the dry ingredients along with shredded cheddar. Mix gently until combined, but do not overmix.

6. Using an ice cream scoop or two spoons, drop dough portions into a cast iron skillet.

7. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top if desired.

8. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.

9. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 33 minutes

Kcal: 214 kcal | Servings: 10 biscuits

Skillet Cheddar Biscuits: A Buttery, Fluffy Delight for Any Meal

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of homemade biscuits, fresh from the oven, golden brown, and infused with the rich flavors of butter, cheddar, and garlic. Whether paired with a hearty soup, served alongside a family dinner, or simply enjoyed with a dab of butter, Skillet Cheddar Biscuits are a true crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and a cast-iron skillet. Unlike traditional roll-out biscuits, these drop biscuits are rustic, tender, and effortlessly fluffy—perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned home cooks alike. But what makes these biscuits truly stand out? Let’s dive into the history, benefits, and tips for making the perfect batch.

A Brief History of Biscuits

Biscuits have long been a staple in Southern and American cuisine, originating from early European settlers who brought bread-making techniques to the New World. The term “biscuit” itself comes from the Latin words bis (twice) and coctus (cooked), referring to a process of baking bread twice to make it dry and long-lasting.

However, American-style biscuits differ from European biscuits (which are more like cookies). Instead of being crisp, they are soft, fluffy, and tender. The Southern United States perfected the buttermilk biscuit, using a combination of flour, fat, and a leavening agent to create a light, airy texture. Today, biscuits have evolved into many variations, including cheddar biscuits, herb-infused biscuits, and even sweet versions.

The Skillet Cheddar Biscuit is an adaptation of this classic, incorporating sharp cheddar cheese and baking it in a cast-iron skillet for a delicious crispy-bottom texture.

Why This Recipe is the Best

There are many biscuit recipes out there, but this Skillet Cheddar Biscuit recipe stands out for several reasons:

1. Incredible Flavor

These biscuits are packed with flavor, thanks to the sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and a touch of paprika. The combination of savory, cheesy, and buttery goodness makes them completely irresistible.

2. Fluffy and Soft Texture

The secret to tender biscuits lies in cold butter and buttermilk. When the cold butter melts in the oven, it creates steam pockets, resulting in a light and airy texture.

3. Easy and Foolproof

Unlike traditional biscuits that require rolling and cutting, these drop biscuits are quick and effortless. Just mix the dough, scoop it into the skillet, and bake—no kneading or special equipment required!

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

These biscuits pair well with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serve them with eggs and bacon in the morning, enjoy them as a snack, or use them as a side for soups, stews, and barbecue meals.

5. Skillet Magic

Baking in a cast-iron skillet gives these biscuits an amazing texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside. It also retains heat well, ensuring even baking.

The Health Benefits of Homemade Biscuits

While biscuits are known as a comfort food, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients, making them a better alternative to store-bought options.

1. No Artificial Preservatives – Store-bought biscuits often contain preservatives and additives, while homemade biscuits use fresh, natural ingredients.

2. Customizable Ingredients – You can adjust the ingredients to make them healthier, such as using whole wheat flour, low-fat cheese, or reducing the salt.

3. Rich in Calcium and Protein – The cheddar cheese in these biscuits provides calcium for bone health and protein for muscle growth.

4. Good Source of Energy – Biscuits provide carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Pairing them with a protein-rich meal makes them a balanced option.

Pro Tips for Perfect Skillet Cheddar Biscuits

Even though this recipe is simple, here are a few key tips to ensure success every time:

1. Use Cold Butter

Cold butter is essential for flaky biscuits. Grating the butter directly into the flour mixture helps distribute it evenly and keeps the dough from becoming too dense.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits. Stir the dough just until combined to keep the biscuits light and tender.

3. Preheat Your Skillet

For a crispier crust, place the skillet in the oven while preheating. When the dough hits the hot surface, it will create a beautiful golden-brown bottom.

4. Experiment with Cheese

Sharp cheddar works beautifully, but you can switch things up by using smoked cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a unique flavor twist.

5. Brush with Butter

For an extra rich and golden top, brush the biscuits with melted butter before and after baking. You can even add a sprinkle of garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of these biscuits is that they are highly customizable. Here are some variations to try:

• Spicy Cheddar Biscuits: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a little heat.

• Herb-Infused Biscuits: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic twist.

• Cheesy Bacon Biscuits: Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon bits for a smoky flavor boost.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these biscuits gluten-free.

• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

What to Serve with Skillet Cheddar Biscuits

These biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

Breakfast:

• Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty morning meal.

• Use them as a base for biscuits and gravy with sausage gravy.

Lunch/Dinner:

• Serve as a side to soups and stews like tomato soup, chili, or beef stew.

• Pair with barbecue dishes such as pulled pork, brisket, or smoked chicken.

• Use them as mini sandwich buns for sliders or fried chicken sandwiches.

Snack/Appetizer:

• Enjoy with a spread of butter and honey for a sweet-savory bite.

• Serve alongside a charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, and jams.

Storing and Reheating Biscuits

If you have leftovers (though they usually disappear quickly!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing:

• Keep biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

• Freeze biscuits for up to 3 months in a ziplock bag.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds, but note that they may become softer.

Conclusion

These Skillet Cheddar Biscuits are everything a great biscuit should be—fluffy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With a crispy exterior, soft interior, and cheesy goodness in every bite, they’re perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this foolproof recipe will become a go-to favorite in no time. So grab your cast-iron skillet, whip up a batch, and enjoy the magic of homemade biscuits!