Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits

There’s just something irresistible about a warm, golden brown biscuit straight from the oven—and when it’s filled with melty cheddar cheese and savory diced ham? Even better. These Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits are a satisfying way to use up leftover ham, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a hearty snack. With a buttery crust and fluffy, tender center, they’re a twist on cheese butter swim biscuits that you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you bake them in a traditional oven or try them in the air fryer, this is a great recipe to keep on hand. You only need basic pantry ingredients and one baking sheet. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits

• Easy prep: No rolling or cutting—just mix, drop, and bake.
• Versatile: Great for using up diced ham or shredded white cheddar.
• Crowd-pleaser: From family breakfasts to potluck sides, these biscuits win every time.
• Comfort food: Think cozy, buttery, cheesy, savory bites that melt in your mouth.

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Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits

This biscuit recipe keeps it simple, using staple ingredients that come together in just minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Use unbleached purpose flour for best results.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – Ensures light and fluffy biscuits.
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed – Cold butter gives you flaky texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp or white cheddar both work well.
• 1 cup finely diced ham – A great way to repurpose leftover ham.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Adds tang and tenderness to the biscuit dough.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – For brushing the tops after baking.

Tip: You can use a food processor to cut the butter into the flour quickly for a consistent texture.

How to make Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in the butter: Add cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your food processor to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the cheese and ham: Add shredded cheddar and diced ham, tossing lightly to coat.

5. Add the buttermilk: Pour in the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—lumpy dough is fine!

6. Drop the biscuits: Using a spoon or scoop, drop dough mounds onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on the baking time near the end.

8. Brush with butter: As soon as they’re out of the oven, brush biscuit tops with melted butter for extra flavor.

You Need to Know

• Cold butter is key. Keep your butter in the fridge until the moment you need it.
• Don’t overmix the dough—it can make biscuits tough.
• If you’re using an air fryer, reduce the baking time to 8–10 minutes at 375°F and bake in batches.

Perfect Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with scrambled eggs and fruit for a balanced breakfast.
• Use them to make mini ham and cheese biscuit sandwiches with honey mustard.
• Pair with soup or a salad for a cozy lunch.
• They also make a great grab-and-go snack or brunch addition!

Making Them Different

Try these fun variations to suit your tastes:

• Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack.
• Add chopped scallions or fresh herbs for a pop of flavor.
• Mix in a little hot sauce or Dijon mustard for tang.
• Use cubed cooked bacon or turkey instead of ham.

Storage and Reheating

• Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.
• To freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze up to 3 months.
• To reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or microwave for 20–30 seconds. Add a brush of melted butter to bring them back to life!

Baking Success Tips

• Always use cold butter—it creates steam pockets for a flaky texture.
• Line your baking sheet for easy cleanup and even browning.
• Shred your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded—pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Want a crustier finish? Bake in a cast-iron skillet instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-made biscuit dough?
You can, but the texture won’t be as tender. This biscuit recipe is worth the small effort!

Do I need buttermilk?
Buttermilk gives the best texture, but you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup milk.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

Can I freeze them before baking?
Absolutely. Drop them onto a tray and freeze raw. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to your baking time.

More Bibodo Recipes to Try

If you loved these ham and cheese biscuits with their golden crust and melty center, you’ll want to explore these other great recipes from the Bibodo kitchen. Whether you’re using your baking sheet again, trying something sweet, or looking for a side to serve with your savory bakes, these are worth bookmarking.

• Strawberry Delight Recipe – This no-bake layered dessert is a refreshing contrast to buttery biscuit dough. Light, creamy, and made for spring gatherings, it’s the perfect follow-up to any savory dish.
• Lamb Tagine with Couscous – A richly spiced one-pot dinner that balances tender meat with sweet dried fruit and fluffy couscous. Serve with warmed buttermilk biscuits or use it as a hearty holiday main.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – These crispy roasted potatoes bake up golden brown and pair perfectly with any of your favorite ham recipes. A great side dish for brunch spreads or simple dinners.
• Fluffy Banana Nut Muffins – Need a use for ripe bananas? These muffins are soft, moist, and a fantastic way to add something sweet to your baking sheet line-up. Try brushing the tops with a little melted butter before serving.
• Classic Chocolate Lava Cake – Want something rich to balance a savory meal? This gooey, indulgent dessert is simple to prepare and bakes up quickly—just like your favorite cheese butter swim biscuits but in sweet form.

Bringing It All Together

These Ham and Cheese Butter Biscuits combine the best of comforting, homemade baking with easy prep and pantry-friendly ingredients. From the flaky texture of tender biscuit dough to the savory bite of diced ham and cheddar cheese, this is a great recipe for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack. Whether baked on a baking sheet or crisped in the air fryer, each golden brown biscuit is buttery, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Want to learn more about this classic staple? Read more about the origins of the biscuit and its place in traditional cuisine. Ready to make a batch? Bookmark the recipe card—this one’s a keeper.