Easy Ham and Cheese Biscuits: A Quick & Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of warm, flaky biscuits, especially when they’re studded with savory ham and gooey melted cheese. These Ham and Cheese Biscuits are a delightful treat that perfectly blends convenience with irresistible flavor. Light, tender, and incredibly easy to make, they are a fantastic way to transform that last bit of leftover Easter or Christmas ham into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch item, or a delightful savory snack, these biscuits are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Biscuit Recipe

This recipe for Ham and Cheese Biscuits isn’t just easy; it’s a testament to simple ingredients creating profound flavors. Here’s why these biscuits are bound to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Quick: From start to finish, these biscuits are ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for those busy mornings or when unexpected guests arrive.
• The Best Use for Leftover Ham: Don’t let precious holiday ham go to waste! These biscuits provide a delicious and creative solution to use up those smaller pieces.
• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The salty notes of finely chopped ham perfectly complement the sharp tang of cheddar cheese, all encased in a soft, tender biscuit.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, transform them into an epic breakfast sandwich, or serve them alongside your favorite soup or chili.
• Foolproof Drop Biscuits: No rolling, no cutting, just simple scooping! This drop biscuit method ensures a mess-free and stress-free baking experience, even for novice bakers.

For another excellent way to utilize leftover ham, be sure to check out this Easy Ham and Cheese Quiche.

The Magic of Easy Drop Biscuits

At the heart of this incredibly simple recipe lies the technique of making drop biscuits. Unlike traditional rolled biscuits, which require kneading and cutting, drop biscuits are a more forgiving and less time-consuming method. The dough is simply mixed and then dropped by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, resulting in rustic, tender biscuits with wonderfully craggy tops and bottoms.

We’re embracing the convenience of Bisquick for this recipe, making it incredibly fast and virtually mess-free. While some Southern traditionalists might raise an eyebrow at using a mix for biscuits, there’s no denying the consistent results and speed Bisquick offers. When you don’t have access to specialized self-rising flour like White Lily, Bisquick stands out as a fantastic and reliable alternative, ensuring fluffy, delicious biscuits every single time.

Mastering the Ingredients for Perfect Ham and Cheese Biscuits

Creating these delightful Ham and Cheese Biscuits requires only a handful of common ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. Understanding each component ensures your biscuits turn out perfectly every time.

• Bisquick Baking Mix: This is the hero of our easy biscuit recipe. Bisquick comes pre-mixed with flour, leavening agents, and shortening, eliminating the need for separate dry ingredients and guaranteeing a consistent, tender crumb. If Bisquick isn’t available, you can approximate it by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of cold, diced butter or shortening, then cut in the fat until crumbly.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the ham. For the best melting and flavor, shred your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked gouda for a different twist.
• Finely Chopped Ham: Leftover cooked ham is ideal for this recipe. Whether it’s from a holiday feast or simply deli ham, ensure it’s finely diced to distribute evenly throughout the biscuit dough. The smaller pieces will integrate better and ensure every bite gets a taste of that savory goodness.
• Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes to the richness and tenderness of the biscuits. The fat content in whole milk helps create a softer texture. While other milks can be used, whole milk is recommended for the best results. Make sure it’s cold, as cold liquids help keep the butter (or shortening in Bisquick) solid until baking, which creates steam and flakiness.
• Melted Butter & Garlic Powder: This simple glaze is the secret to an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden finish. Brushing the warm biscuits with melted butter infused with garlic powder adds a wonderful savory aroma and a subtle kick, elevating these biscuits from good to extraordinary.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Ham and Cheese Biscuits

Making these biscuits is straightforward and quick. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked, flavorful Ham and Cheese Biscuits:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature of 450 degrees F (232 degrees C). A hot oven is crucial for biscuits to rise quickly and become light and fluffy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients and Add-ins: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and finely chopped ham. Use a spoon or spatula to stir these ingredients together until they are well distributed.
3. Gently Mix in Milk: Pour the cold whole milk into the bowl. Stir the mixture just until the ingredients are combined and a soft dough forms. It’s vital not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough, dry biscuits. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
4. Scoop and Form Biscuits: For consistent sizing, lightly grease a 1/4-cup measuring cup with cooking spray. Scoop out mounds of dough that are slightly less than a quarter cup in size and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet. You should yield approximately 7 to 8 biscuits from this recipe. Arrange them with a little space in between for even baking.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. The biscuits are done when they are golden brown on top and cooked through. They should feel firm to the touch.
6. Finish with Garlic Butter Glaze: While the biscuits are still warm, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder. Lightly brush this flavorful butter mixture over the tops of each biscuit.
7. Serve Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve your Ham and Cheese Biscuits warm and fresh from the oven.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Ham and Cheese Biscuits

These savory biscuits are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways beyond a simple breakfast. Here are some ideas to make the most of your delicious creation:

• Classic Breakfast or Brunch: They make a very popular addition to any brunch spread or as a standalone breakfast. The melted butter and garlic powder brushed on top adds an irresistible aroma and flavor that will wake up your senses.
• Epic Breakfast Sandwiches: Slice them in half and add some fluffy scrambled eggs, a slice of crispy bacon, or even an extra layer of ham for an out-of-this-world breakfast sandwich. The tender biscuit holds up beautifully to fillings.
• Sweet and Savory Delight: If you’re a fan of sweet and salty combinations, you absolutely must try slathering some strawberry jam or fig preserves on one of these Ham and Cheese Biscuits. The unexpected pairing is heavenly!
• Accompaniment to Soups and Stews: These savory biscuits are the perfect sidekick for hearty soups, chili, or stews. Their robust flavor and tender texture make them ideal for soaking up every last drop.
• Party Appetizers: Cut smaller biscuits and serve them warm at your next gathering. They disappear quickly!

Tips for Success & Delightful Variations

While the basic recipe is wonderfully simple, a few tips and creative variations can elevate your Ham and Cheese Biscuits even further:

• Always Use Cold Milk: Just like with traditional biscuit making, cold milk helps keep the fats in the Bisquick (or butter, if making from scratch) solid until they hit the hot oven. This creates steam, resulting in a lighter, flakier texture.
• Don’t Be Afraid of High Heat: The 450°F oven temperature is intentional. The intense heat helps the leavening agents activate quickly, giving the biscuits a rapid rise and a tender interior with a golden crust.
• Vary the Cheese: Don’t limit yourself to sharp cheddar! Try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone, or add a touch of spicy pepper jack for a kick. Grated Gruyere or Swiss would also be delicious, offering a nuttier flavor.
• Herbaceous Additions: Fresh herbs are a fantastic way to boost flavor. Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, or dill into the biscuit dough along with the ham and cheese.
• A Touch of Spice: For those who like a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce mixed into the dough or the butter glaze can add a wonderful warmth.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: As our reader suggested, these biscuits freeze beautifully! Once cooled completely, wrap individual biscuits tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or in a toaster oven until warmed through.
• Increase Yield: If you need more biscuits, simply make them slightly smaller. Using a smaller scoop (e.g., a tablespoon-sized cookie scoop) will yield more biscuits, though they will cook a little faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of flour instead of Bisquick?

Yes, you can make a homemade Bisquick substitute. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of cold, unsalted butter (cut into small pieces). Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, then proceed with the recipe.

Can I omit the ham or cheese?

While these are Ham and Cheese Biscuits, you can certainly customize them! You could make plain drop biscuits, or substitute the ham with cooked crumbled sausage or bacon. For cheese, feel free to use your favorite variety or omit it for a plainer biscuit.

How should I store leftover biscuits?

Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, see the “Make Ahead and Freeze” tip above.

Why are my biscuits tough or hard?

The most common reason for tough biscuits is overmixing the dough. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature, as a too-cool oven can result in dense biscuits.

Can I add other ingredients to the biscuits?

Absolutely! Get creative. Chopped chives, green onions, a pinch of black pepper, or even a tiny bit of Dijon mustard mixed into the dough can add wonderful complexity.

More Delightful Biscuit Recipes to Explore

If you’ve enjoyed these Ham and Cheese Biscuits, you’ll love exploring other biscuit creations. From sweet to savory, there’s a biscuit for every craving:

• Cinnamon Sugar Drop Biscuits: A sweet twist perfect for dessert or a treat.
• Angel Biscuits: Light and airy, a classic Southern favorite.
• Cat Head Biscuits: Large, fluffy biscuits, ideal for soaking up gravy.
• Chocolate Chip Biscuits: A delicious sweet indulgence.
• Bacon Cheddar Biscuits: Another savory hit, packed with flavor.
• Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits: For those who like a little spicy kick.
• Red Lobster Biscuits: Recreate your restaurant favorite at home.
• 3-Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits: Simplicity at its best.

Ham and Cheese Biscuits

★★★★★
5 from
3 votes

By Christin Mahrlig

Prep:
5 mins

Cook:
10 mins

Total:
15 mins

Servings:
8

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Ham and Cheese Biscuits are light and tender with little bits of ham and cheese baked right in. Great for using that last little bit of leftover ham.

Equipment

• Rimmed Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper

Ingredients

• 2 cups Bisquick
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup finely chopped ham
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Stir together Bisquick, cheese, and ham in a medium bowl.
3. Stir in milk, mixing just until combined.
4. Grease a 1/4 cup measuring cup with cooking spray and scoop out mounds that are a little less than 1/4 cup. You should have 7 to 8 biscuits.
5. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Stir together melted butter and garlic powder and brush on tops of biscuits.

Nutrition (Approximate)

Calories: 250 kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 586mg | Potassium: 109mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 307IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Recipe adapted from Nums the Word

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