Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are an indulgent twist on the Southern classic. These rich, buttery biscuits are irresistibly moist because they literally “swim” in melted butter as they bake. The bits of salty ham and sharp cheddar create a savory balance in every bite, making them perfect for breakfast spreads, cozy weekend brunches, or even as a side dish for soups and stews. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these biscuits are a go-to comfort bake.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (or 1 1/2 cups milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, rested 5 mins)
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour the melted butter into a 9-inch square or round baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Stir in the buttermilk just until a dough forms. Fold in the ham and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Transfer the dough into the prepared dish, pressing it gently into an even layer over the melted butter. Use a knife to cut the unbaked dough into 9 squares (this helps them separate after baking).
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Variation
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for heat.
- Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack, Swiss, or Gruyère instead of cheddar.
- Herbed Flavor: Mix in chopped chives, rosemary, or thyme for an herbaceous note.
COOKING Note
- Make sure your butter is fully melted and hot when pouring it into the pan to help create that signature buttery crisp edge.
- Use a glass baking dish if possible to monitor the browning from the sides.
- Let biscuits rest for a few minutes before cutting to finish setting.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with extra butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Perfect with scrambled eggs or alongside a breakfast casserole.
- Great as a side for creamy soups like potato, chicken noodle, or tomato basil.
Tips
- Don’t overmix the dough to keep the biscuits tender.
- Use quality ham and sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
- Let the biscuits rest for 5 minutes before cutting through completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 640mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store baked biscuits in an airtight container at room temp for 1-2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make a quick substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the perfect savory treat when you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Baked in butter for unbeatable moisture and crust, they combine the comforting charm of biscuits with the hearty addition of ham and cheese. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or reheating the next day, they never fail to impress with their flavor and texture. Enjoy every indulgent bite!
Print
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
- Total Time: 35min
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Biscuits:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (or 1 1/2 cups milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, rested 5 mins)
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour the melted butter into a 9-inch square or round baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Stir in the buttermilk just until a dough forms. Fold in the ham and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Transfer the dough into the prepared dish, pressing it gently into an even layer over the melted butter. Use a knife to cut the unbaked dough into 9 squares (this helps them separate after baking).
Step 5: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Notes
- Make sure your butter is fully melted and hot when pouring it into the pan to help create that signature buttery crisp edge.
- Use a glass baking dish if possible to monitor the browning from the sides.
- Let biscuits rest for a few minutes before cutting to finish setting.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 9 g