Savory Ham and Cheese Biscuits

These savory ham and cheese biscuits are a family favorite on game days and lazy mornings. Each biscuit is loaded with juicy ham and melty cheddar, baked to golden perfection. The quick recipe means you can whip up homemade comfort any time, and the cheesy aroma draws everyone into the kitchen. Whether served hot from the oven or stashed for snack time, these biscuits vanish so fast I always wish I had doubled the batch.

When I first made these for a Sunday brunch, the tray barely made it to the table before everyone grabbed seconds right away. They have been my secret to easy entertaining ever since.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: for structure and the soft crumb look for fresh and unbleached flour for best rise
• Baking powder: the leavening hero Double check the expiration to ensure fluffy biscuits
• Salt: boosts every flavor use sea salt for a clean finish
• Black pepper: adds just a hint of warmth freshly ground gives a bigger punch
• Garlic powder: an easy way to infuse savory notes choose a fresh jar for the brightest taste
• Unsalted butter: gives richness and flakiness make sure it is very cold for super tender layers
• Cooked ham: diced for meaty chunks choose thick-cut ham from the deli or use leftovers
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into gooey pockets sharp or aged kinds give the most flavor
• Whole milk: binds the dough and adds moisture always use full fat for the best texture
• Egg: gives the dough extra lift and rich color use a large egg at room temperature for easy mixing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment Drag out your cold butter now so it stays chilled

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

Combine flour baking powder salt pepper and garlic powder in a big bowl Whisk until evenly blended with no streaks left

Cut in the Butter:

Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture Quickly use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to break up butter until pea-sized bits remain This keeps biscuits flaky

Add Ham and Cheese:

Toss diced ham and shredded cheese into your flour butter mix Stir until pieces are distributed throughout the mixture This ensures every bite has plenty of filling

Combine Wet Ingredients and Make Dough:

Mix milk and egg together in a separate small bowl Pour over dry mixture and stir gently just until you have a shaggy slightly sticky dough Stop when everything is mostly combined to avoid tough biscuits

Shape the Biscuits:

Push dough onto a floured surface and gently knead a few turns Pat or roll into a one inch thick slab Use a cutter or knife to create eight to ten rounds

Bake:

Arrange biscuits with space between on your lined baking sheet Slide into the oven Bake for fifteen to eighteen minutes or until tops are golden and biscuits are puffed Let them rest a minute before moving with a spatula Serve while still warm and fragrant

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You Must Know

• High in protein a filling start to any day
• Great for meal prep freeze and reheat beautifully
• Customizable with other cheeses or meats for variety

I love biting into the golden edges where butter has crisped the dough and melting cheese has browned This recipe reminds me of family game day mornings when the kitchen smells of ham and cheddar and everyone finds an excuse to linger longer over breakfast

Storage Tips

Keep leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For longer storage freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag They reheat best wrapped in foil in a low oven for about ten minutes Biscuits are best served warm so always give them a quick toast before enjoying

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of ham swap in chopped bacon or cooked sausage For a new cheese flavor try Monterey Jack or a mild Swiss Add a sprinkle of herbs like chives or parsley for a fresh twist You can even use a plant-based butter or non dairy milk if needed just expect a slight change in texture

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Serving Suggestions

These biscuits are perfect solo but even better sliced and filled with scrambled eggs for a breakfast sandwich Serve alongside soups or chili for a hearty dinner or tuck into picnic baskets for spontaneous outdoor snacking A dab of honey butter or a spoonful of mustard can elevate them further

Cultural and Family Notes

Biscuit baking is a weekend tradition that feels as comforting as it is practical Ham and cheese make this classic Southern treat extra hearty and family friendly We make these every New Year’s Day for good luck and plenty of delicious leftovers It is a recipe that bridges generations with its familiar golden edges and savory aroma

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure flaky biscuits?

Use cold butter cut into the flour mixture until pea-sized clumps remain. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep tender layers.

→ Can I substitute the ham with another ingredient?

Yes, crispy bacon bits work well and add a crunchy texture and salty note without making the biscuits greasy.

→ What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Smoked Gouda is a great alternative, lending a subtle smoky flavor that complements the savory ham nicely.

→ How thick should I shape the dough?

Pat or roll the dough to about 1 inch thick to ensure even baking and a tender crumb.

→ Can I add spices for extra flavor?

Yes, finely diced jalapeño peppers can add a fresh bite and a gentle kick for a creative twist.