If you’re a fan of those buttery, cheesy biscuits that fly off the table at your favorite seafood joint, then you’re going to fall in love with this homemade Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf. Imagine all that irresistible, garlicky goodness packed into a warm and golden quick bread you can slice, share, and savor whenever the craving strikes. Whether you want to impress guests, treat yourself on a cozy night in, or bring a crowd-pleaser to your next gathering, this loaf delivers everything. It’s cheesy, savory, and bursting with flavor in every bite—this is a recipe begging to be in your regular baking rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf plays a part in creating that iconic combination of fluffy texture, rich cheesiness, and that irresistible hint of garlic. Even if your pantry is feeling a little sparse, you’ll probably have most of these essentials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the backbone of the loaf and gives it a soft yet hearty crumb.
- Baking powder: Helps the loaf rise and keeps it light and airy, much like classic biscuits.
- Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create extra lift and tenderness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing out the richness from the cheese and butter.
- Garlic powder: That signature savory aroma comes through thanks to this simple pantry staple.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a subtle kick and warmth for those who want a touch of spice.
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Incorporates pockets of moisture, just like flaky biscuits—don’t skip the cold butter!
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): The star ingredient, it melts into rich, gooey ribbons throughout the loaf.
- Buttermilk: Lends a delightful tang and ensures a tender crumb—if you need a substitute, see FAQs below.
- Egg: Holds everything together and gives the loaf a wonderful lift and moisture.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Gives a pop of color and a fresh finish to the loaf and the top.
- Melted butter (for brushing): That irresistible glossy, buttery finish right out of the oven takes it over the top!
How to Make Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating, generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf will release effortlessly, and gives you time to gather and measure your ingredients—a little prep goes a long way to a stress-free bake!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and that pinch of cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Mixing these thoroughly ensures all your leavening is evenly distributed, preventing random dense spots or surprising salty pockets.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter into your dry mix. Using a pastry cutter or even a fork, work the butter in until you have coarse crumbs—think pea-sized pieces here. This critical step is what gives Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf its fluffy, tender texture rather than a dense bread.
Step 4: Fold in the Cheese
Now the magic happens: stir the shredded sharp cheddar cheese right into those buttery crumbs. The cheese distributes evenly throughout the loaf, ensuring you get plenty of cheesy goodness in every delicious bite.
Step 5: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until smooth. This combination brings all the flavors together and adds essential moisture for a tender loaf.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into your dry mixture, gently stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined—avoid overmixing, since that can make your loaf tough. The batter will be thick, so don’t worry if it looks a little rustic.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—and your kitchen smells absolutely amazing.
Step 8: Finish with Butter and Cool
As soon as you pull your Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf from the oven, brush the top generously with melted butter. This step adds an unmistakable bakery shine and seals in moisture. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can resist diving in too soon!).
How to Serve Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle your loaf with fresh chopped parsley or even a little extra shredded cheese before serving. That pop of green not only looks beautiful but also gives a fresh, herby contrast to all the cheddar goodness of your Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf.
Side Dishes
This loaf is wonderfully versatile: serve it alongside a steaming bowl of hearty soup, pair it with grilled seafood for a coastal-inspired meal, or let it steal the show as the centerpiece of a brunch spread. Its savory, cheesy profile loves to play alongside simple salads or crisp roasted veggies, making every bite sing.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the loaf! Try slicing Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf thickly and toasting the pieces for incredible breakfast sandwiches, or hollowing out the center for a cheesy bread bowl filled with creamy chowder. You can add mini flag toothpicks for hors d’oeuvres or cube slices for a cozy party platter—so many ways to turn this loaf into an occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any extra slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you’re planning to enjoy Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf all week, pop it in the fridge to keep it fresh and cheesy longer.
Freezing
This loaf freezer beautifully! Wrap it whole or in individual slices with a double layer of plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to two months, making it easy to enjoy homemade cheesy bread on a whim.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or gently microwave individual pieces in 10–15 second bursts. For an unbeatable touch, brush with a smidge more melted butter before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic for Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf, experiment with pepper jack, gouda, or even Monterey Jack for delicious variations. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! Just add 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to 3/4 cup whole milk, let it sit for 5 minutes, then use it in place of buttermilk. This quick substitution works like a charm and keeps your loaf tender.
Can I make Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf in advance?
Yes, this loaf is a great make-ahead option. Bake it up to two days before serving and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature or in the fridge. Warm it up before serving to bring out the flavors.
Why does my loaf sink or seem dense?
This can happen if the batter is overmixed, or if your baking powder or soda isn’t fresh. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients, and always check your leavening agents’ dates for best results.
Can I add herbs or spices to the batter?
Definitely! Chopped fresh chives, thyme, or a hint of Old Bay seasoning can give your Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf a unique twist. Just keep additions to about 2 tablespoons for herbs and 1/2 teaspoon for strong spices so the loaf stays balanced.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this easy, crowd-pleasing Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf, you’ll wonder how you ever hosted brunch or a family dinner without it. Slice off a warm piece, take in that incredible aroma, and get ready for rave reviews from everyone around your table. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your homemade favorite!
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Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe recreates the beloved Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf, a delightful savory quick bread oozing with sharp cheddar cheese and garlic flavors. Perfect as a side dish or paired with soups or seafood dishes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Cut in the cold butter until crumbly, then mix in cheddar cheese.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg. Pour into the dry mix and stir until just combined.
- Bake: Transfer batter to the loaf pan, bake for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Finish: Brush the top with melted butter, cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chives or Old Bay seasoning to the batter.
- Best served warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
