Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole

There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm, cheesy biscuits fresh out of the oven. Combine that with the rich, hearty flavors of a casserole, and you have a dish that feels like a warm hug enter the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole. This dish is a mouthwatering fusion of Red Lobster-style cheddar bay biscuits layered into a savory, bubbly casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or simply craving indulgent comfort food, this casserole is a game changer.

Inspired by the cult-favorite Cheddar Bay Biscuits from Red Lobster, this recipe transforms that flaky, cheesy goodness into a hearty bake. With a filling that can include meats like chicken or sausage, mixed with creamy sauces and topped with golden, garlicky biscuits, it’s a weeknight dinner dream that comes together with ease.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need from what tools to use, to step-by-step instructions, variations, cooking tips, and nutritional info so you can master this irresistible recipe and make it a household favorite.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you begin, gather these essential kitchen tools to make your cooking process smooth and stress-free:

• Large mixing bowls (2-3)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or silicone spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size casserole dish)
• Box grater (for shredding cheese)
• Skillet (if cooking meat or veggies before layering)
• Silicone brush (for butter topping)
• Oven mitts
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Cooling rack

What You Need to Prepare Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole ?

Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for preparing the perfect Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole. This version includes a hearty chicken filling, cheesy biscuit dough, and a buttery garlic topping.

For the Biscuit Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup buttermilk (cold)

For the Casserole Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

How to Make Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole Step-by-Step ?

Let’s break down the process into easy, detailed steps. From mixing dough to assembling and baking, each step is designed to maximize flavor and minimize fuss.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter.
2. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in shredded or cubed cooked chicken.
5. Add cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. If using, stir in frozen peas and carrots.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
8. Cook for 3–5 minutes until mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
9. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Biscuit Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Pour in cold buttermilk and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3. Pour the prepared chicken filling into the dish and spread evenly.
4. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over the filling, slightly flattening each mound to cover more surface area. Leave some gaps for steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the biscuit tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter

1. While the casserole bakes, prepare the garlic butter topping by mixing melted butter with garlic powder and parsley.
2. Once the casserole is done, immediately brush the tops of the biscuits with garlic butter for that classic Cheddar Bay flavor.

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Variations of Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole

The versatility of this casserole allows for endless variations depending on your taste, dietary needs, or what you have in your pantry.

Protein Options: Swap out chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked sausage. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms and extra vegetables in place of meat.

Cheese Lovers’ Delight: While sharp cheddar is traditional, mix things up with Monterey Jack, Colby, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for added gooeyness.

Soup Base Swaps: Instead of cream of chicken, try cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce to keep things interesting.

Low-Carb or Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and a low-carb baking mix for the biscuits. Make sure to use a gluten-free cream soup and check labels on all packaged ingredients.

Add Veggies: Broccoli florets, chopped spinach, or green beans can be folded into the filling for added nutrition and texture.

Cooking Note

A key point when making Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole is avoiding soggy bottoms and ensuring that the biscuits cook through properly. Always place the biscuit dough on top of the hot filling to help them rise and cook evenly. The steam from the hot filling aids in baking the biscuit bottoms without making them dense or gummy.

Another important tip is to use cold butter and buttermilk in your biscuit dough. This ensures tender, flaky biscuits. If the butter begins to melt while mixing, place the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before assembling.

Cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the depth of your casserole dish. Keep an eye on the color of the biscuit tops and the bubbling of the filling around the edges as a sign that it’s ready.

Lastly, let the casserole rest before serving. This helps everything firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve while preventing burns from overly hot filling.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it even more with some complementary sides. A crisp, refreshing salad such as a Caesar or garden salad pairs well with the richness of the casserole. You might also serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed green beans to add some freshness and crunch.

If you’re serving a crowd, a side of mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes makes this meal ultra-comforting. A glass of iced tea or a lightly sparkling beverage helps balance out the savory flavors.

Want a true Southern twist? Serve it with a side of coleslaw or pickled vegetables for that classic diner experience.

Helpful Tips

• Use cold ingredients: Keep butter and buttermilk cold for fluffy biscuits.
• Avoid overmixing dough: Stir biscuit dough just until it comes together. Overmixing makes biscuits tough.
• Customize the filling: Add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling for an aromatic twist.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time when cooking straight from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: Bake, cool completely, then freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Don’t skip the garlic butter: This topping is what makes it “Cheddar Bay” style and adds irresistible flavor.
• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Freshly shredded cheddar melts better.
• Use a thermometer: The internal temperature of the filling should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
• Add hot sauce: A few dashes in the filling can kick up the flavor.

Tips for the Best Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole

For the most delicious results, start with high-quality ingredients freshly shredded sharp cheddar, real buttermilk, and flavorful cooked chicken. Make sure your butter stays cold during mixing, and avoid overworking the dough. Layer the biscuit dough carefully on top of the hot filling to ensure even cooking from top to bottom.

Brush the garlic butter topping while the biscuits are still warm so it melts into every nook and cranny. For added texture and depth, consider topping the casserole with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before baking.

Always allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to ensure clean slices and avoid burning your mouth on the piping-hot filling. These simple tips will help you achieve that crave-worthy, cheesy, biscuit-topped casserole every time.

Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving – approx. 8 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Related Recipes :

• Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe
• Juicy Ground Turkey Burgers
• Cheeseburger Pockets Recipe
• Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
• Easy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

FAQs

Can I use biscuit mix instead of homemade dough?

Yes, a box of Red Lobster Biscuit Mix or even Bisquick can be used to save time. Just follow package directions and adjust for layering on top.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, extra veggies, or even canned white beans. Use cream of mushroom or celery soup instead of chicken.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Bake it fully, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The biscuits should be golden and the filling should bubble around the edges. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F inside.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones, and adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole is more than just a comfort food dish it’s a crowd-pleasing, heartwarming meal that combines the cheesy goodness of biscuits with the hearty appeal of a savory casserole. With its flaky biscuit topping, creamy filling, and endless customization options, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or casual family dinners.

This recipe gives you all the tools you need to master it like a pro. Whether you’re making it from scratch or shortcutting with a mix, the flavors are always bold, buttery, and unforgettable.

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