Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful and savory treat, Ham and Cheese Drop Biscuits are the perfect choice! These biscuits are easy to make and packed with flavor, making them a fantastic addition to any meal or snack. With a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, these drop biscuits are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
¾ cup diced ham
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¾ cup unsalted butter, frozen
1¾ cups buttermilk
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 14-18 minutes
Total Time: 40-43 minutes
Yield: 24 biscuits
Enjoy your warm and delicious Ham and Cheese Drop Biscuits!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 475°F (245°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, chopped parsley, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter
Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the frozen butter. Add the grated butter to the flour mixture and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Buttermilk
Pour in the buttermilk and stir with a rubber spatula until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Form Biscuits
Drop 24 large mounds of dough (approximately 3 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly apart.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 14-18 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown. Rotate the pans halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the biscuits from the oven and serve them warm.
Notes
Tip for Grating Butter
Ensure that the butter is frozen for the best results when grating. This helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in the biscuits.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside soups, salads, or as a breakfast item with eggs.
Cook Techniques
Grating Butter
Using a box grater to grate frozen butter helps incorporate it evenly into the flour mixture, creating a flaky texture in the biscuits.
Dough Mixing
When adding the buttermilk, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough biscuits; a light hand is key to maintaining a soft texture.
Dropping Dough
Using a scoop or a spoon, drop mounds of dough onto the baking sheet. Ensure they are evenly spaced for even baking and properly risen biscuits.
Baking Temperature
Baking at a high temperature (475°F) allows the biscuits to rise quickly and develop a golden-brown crust, ensuring a soft and fluffy interior.
Rotating Pans
Rotating the baking sheets halfway through baking ensures consistent cooking and browning. This is especially important in ovens with uneven heat distribution.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other varieties such as gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How do I store leftover biscuits?
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
How can I make the biscuits healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reduce the amount of cheese or ham, and substitute some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
The Ham and Cheese Drop Biscuits are a delightful combination of savory flavors and flaky texture, making them a perfect addition to any meal or as a snack. Their ease of preparation and versatility make them a must-try recipe that will surely become a family favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits
Add fresh chives to the dough along with the cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Spinach and Feta Drop Biscuits
Incorporate fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese into the biscuit dough for a Mediterranean twist.
Apple and Cinnamon Biscuits
For a sweet variation, mix diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon into the dough, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Bacon and Gruyere Biscuits
Replace the ham with crispy bacon and use Gruyere cheese for a rich and savory biscuit option.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Biscuits
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the mix for a flavorful Italian-inspired biscuit.
Garlic Herb Biscuits
Enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic and a blend of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary to the batter.
