Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are everything you love about classic comfort food—rich, buttery, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. These biscuits get their name from the unique method of baking them in a pool of melted butter, which creates a golden, crispy crust on the bottom while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. Packed with savory ham and sharp cheddar, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a hearty snack.
Whether you’re serving them alongside scrambled eggs, pairing them with soup, or enjoying one straight from the oven, these biscuits are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all? They’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of the dough, giving structure and lightness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Adds a subtle touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder – Helps the biscuits rise and stay fluffy.
- 1 ¾ to 2 cups buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang for flavor and tenderness.
- 2 cups diced ham – Choose fully cooked ham, cut into small pieces for even distribution.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bold flavor.
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter – The key to that signature “swim” method for a crisp, buttery bottom.
How to Make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder until evenly combined.
Step 3: Add Buttermilk
Pour in the buttermilk gradually, stirring until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more buttermilk until it’s moist but not runny.
Step 4: Stir in Ham and Cheese
Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded cheddar. Make sure the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter in the microwave or directly in your baking dish if it’s microwave-safe. Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared dish.
Step 6: Add the Dough
Spoon the dough over the butter. It will spread out naturally. Use a spatula or knife to cut the dough into 9 squares—this will help them bake evenly and separate easily.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the center of the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Rotate the dish halfway through for even cooking. If the tops start to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil. The biscuits are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the biscuits cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are incredibly versatile:
- Serve them warm with scrambled eggs or sausage gravy for a hearty breakfast.
- Pair with soups like creamy tomato, potato leek, or chicken noodle for a satisfying lunch.
- Add a simple salad for a complete brunch or light dinner.
Want to take things up a notch? Brush the tops with a little melted butter right after baking for a glossy finish and extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes.
- Freezer: Wrap individual biscuits in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating in the oven.
- Avoid the microwave: It softens the texture and makes the biscuits soggy.
Conclusion
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and packed with savory goodness, they bring comfort to any meal. Whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a hungry family, or just indulging in a warm biscuit straight from the oven, this recipe delivers every time.
