Introduction

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, flaky pastry fresh from the oven. Ham and Cheese Biscuits are a Southern classic that seamlessly blend the savory flavors of ham with the rich creaminess of cheese, all enveloped in a buttery, tender biscuit dough. These delightful breakfast biscuits with ham are perfect not only for breakfast but also as a quick snack or a staple at brunch gatherings. The recipe is an ideal starting point for anyone looking to explore savory biscuit ideas, offering a foundation that can be adapted with a variety of ingredients and techniques.

The history of biscuits in Southern cuisine is deeply rooted in hospitality and shared meals. Traditionally served with meats or gravies, biscuits have evolved over time, becoming a versatile dish that can be both sweet and savory. The combination of ham and cheese in this recipe pays homage to this tradition, enhancing the biscuit’s buttery flavor with a melty, cheesy interior. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice baker, these homemade cheese biscuits are sure to impress.

In Southern gatherings, Ham and Cheese Biscuits often hold a place of honor on the table, symbolizing warmth and welcome. The recipe’s versatility allows for endless variations, making it a staple for creative cooks who enjoy putting their own twist on traditional dishes. As you bake these biscuits, you’ll become part of a long-standing culinary tradition that values simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, chilled

Toppings and Add-ins

• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)

Special Notes: For a healthier alternative, use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour. If buttermilk is unavailable, combine 3/4 cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for five minutes. Check out our related guide for more tips. Consider using high-quality cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor, and experiment with different types of ham for a variety of textures and tastes.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Preheating is crucial as it ensures that the biscuits rise properly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, providing a consistent texture and flavor throughout the biscuits.
3. Incorporate the Butter: Add the diced butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to keep the butter cold to achieve a flaky texture in the biscuits. Small pea-sized butter chunks should remain, which will melt during baking to create layers.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the chilled buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid over-mixing to prevent tough biscuits. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
5. Fold in the Ham and Cheese: Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded cheese. If using chives, add them at this stage for an extra burst of flavor. Ensure even distribution of the add-ins to get a taste of ham and cheese in every bite.
6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat or roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Fold the rectangle into thirds, like a letter, then roll it out again, repeating this process twice. This folding technique helps create layers and a tender biscuit texture.
7. Cut the Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting for the best rise. Reroll scraps gently and cut out additional biscuits. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even baking.
8. Bake: Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are close but not touching. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Watching the biscuits carefully during the last few minutes can prevent over-browning.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm. The aroma as they cool will be irresistible, setting the stage for an enjoyable meal.

Tips & Tricks

• Storage Tips: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain their warmth and flakiness. These storage tips ensure that every biscuit tastes fresh and delicious, even days later.
• Freezing Option: Freeze unbaked biscuits on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This method allows you to enjoy freshly baked biscuits anytime with minimal effort.
• Avoid Overworking the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent activating the gluten, which can result in dense biscuits. Gentle handling is key to achieving the light, airy texture characteristic of perfect biscuits.
• Perfecting the Rise: For taller biscuits, ensure your baking powder is fresh, and consider chilling the cut biscuits for 15 minutes before baking. Chilling helps the biscuits retain their shape and height during baking.
• Enhancing Flavor: Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter right after baking for added flavor and sheen.

Variations

• Vegan Alternative: Replace butter with vegan margarine and use almond milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar instead of buttermilk. Substitute ham with smoked tofu. This vegan twist retains the essence of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients comply with gluten-free standards. This variation provides a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy these biscuits.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary or thyme instead of chives for different flavor profiles. Fresh herbs can drastically change the flavor dynamics, making it a versatile recipe for various occasions.
• Cheese Choice: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Cheese selection can be tailored to personal taste or the preferences of your guests, allowing for endless customization.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Cheese Biscuits are delightful on their own or as part of a broader meal. Consider serving them alongside a potato salad or paired with a refreshing California spaghetti salad. For a breakfast sandwich with ham and cheese, split the biscuits and layer with a fried egg and extra cheese for a satisfying start to the day. These biscuits also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of iced tea, making them versatile enough for any meal or occasion.

For an elegant presentation, arrange the biscuits on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herb sprigs. Create a biscuit bar with various toppings like honey butter, fruit preserves, or flavored cream cheeses to elevate your brunch spread and let guests customize their own creations.

FAQ

• Can I use pre-cooked ham?: Yes, pre-cooked ham works perfectly for this recipe. Ensure it’s diced into small pieces for even distribution. Using pre-cooked ham can also save time and add convenience to the cooking process.
• How can I make my biscuits fluffier?: To achieve fluffy biscuits, make sure not to overwork the dough, keep your ingredients cold, and use a sharp cutter for clean cuts. Also, consider using a high-protein flour, which can affect the texture and height of the biscuits.
• What if I don’t have a biscuit cutter?: A drinking glass or a jar lid can be used as a substitute for a biscuit cutter. Just ensure to press straight down without twisting. Alternatively, cut the dough into squares for a rustic, no-waste approach.
• Is it necessary to use buttermilk?: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and tender texture to the biscuits. If unavailable, you can use the milk and lemon juice substitute mentioned in the ingredients section. This substitution maintains the acidity needed for the leavening process.
• Can I prepare the dough in advance?: Yes, you can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to have fresh biscuits ready quickly.

Conclusion

These Ham and Cheese Biscuits offer a delightful twist on a beloved classic, combining the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them as a simple snack or as part of a larger brunch spread, they are bound to become a favorite. Try this recipe today and experience the comfort of warm, flaky biscuits filled with savory goodness. We invite you to share your creations and any personal twists on this recipe. Happy baking!

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked biscuits filling the kitchen. As you bite into these Ham and Cheese Biscuits, you’ll appreciate the harmony between the savory ham, creamy cheese, and tender biscuit. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own. Whether you’re a biscuit aficionado or a first-time baker, these biscuits are sure to bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Ham and Cheese Biscuits

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Breakfast Cuisine: Southern Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

15 min

🔥

Calories

—

PIN PRINT SHARE

Ham and Cheese Biscuits are a Southern classic that blend the savory flavors of ham with the rich creaminess of cheese, enveloped in a buttery, tender biscuit dough. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch gatherings, this recipe offers a foundation that can be adapted with various ingredients and techniques.

Cook Mode Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, chilled
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

3.

Add the diced butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4.

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the chilled buttermilk. Stir gently with a fork until the dough just comes together.

5.

Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded cheese. If using chives, add them at this stage.

6.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat or roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Fold the rectangle into thirds, then roll it out again, repeating this process twice.

7.

Use a biscuit cutter or a round glass to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting.

8.

Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are close but not touching. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

9.

Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.