Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits

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Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits

Golden, buttery biscuits baked with savory ham and melty cheddar cheese — a true crowd‑pleaser.

Introduction

Butter swim biscuits are already a Southern classic, known for their rich flavor and tender texture. This version takes them up a notch by adding diced ham and sharp cheddar cheese, turning a simple biscuit into a full meal. The magic happens when the dough bakes directly in melted butter, creating a golden crust and fluffy interior. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish at dinner — and they’re so easy to make, no kneading required.

Ingredients (Serves 9)

2 ½ cups all‑purpose flour

1 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tbsp aluminum‑free baking powder

1 ¾ cups buttermilk (increase to 2 cups if batter seems dry)

2 cups small diced ham

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup (1 stick) salted butter

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Spray a 9×9‑inch oven‑safe glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick spray.

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.

  1. Add Buttermilk

Pour in buttermilk and stir until a sticky batter forms. Adjust with extra buttermilk if needed.

  1. Add Ham and Cheese

Gently fold in diced ham and shredded cheddar until evenly distributed.

  1. Prepare Butter Base

Melt butter in a microwave‑safe bowl (or directly in the baking dish if safe). Pour melted butter into prepared dish.

  1. Add Dough

Spoon biscuit dough directly into the dish on top of the butter. Spray your hand with nonstick spray to spread dough evenly.

  1. Score the Dough

Cut dough into 9 squares before baking to make serving easier later.

  1. Bake

Bake on the middle rack for 25–30 minutes, rotating once. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

  1. Test for Doneness

Biscuits should be golden brown and spring back to the touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

  1. Serve

Slice along the scored lines and serve warm.

Prep & Bake Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

Total Time: ~40 minutes

Servings: 9 biscuits

Tips for Success

Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.

Dice ham small so it distributes evenly.

Don’t skip scoring the dough — it makes cutting easier after baking.

Serve immediately for the best texture, though leftovers reheat well.

Variations

Breakfast Biscuits: Add cooked bacon or sausage instead of ham.

Herb Twist: Mix in chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary.

Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Ideas

Pair with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.

Serve alongside soups or stews for a comforting dinner.

Slice and use as a base for mini sandwiches.

Offer with honey butter or garlic butter for extra indulgence.

Storytelling Element

Imagine pulling a bubbling dish of biscuits from the oven — the butter sizzling around the edges, the cheese melted into golden pockets, and the savory aroma of ham filling the kitchen. Each square is rich, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, making it impossible to stop at just one.

Conclusion

These Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are buttery, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that feels homemade and indulgent, perfect for any occasion.

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