Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits – A Rich and Savory Delight That's Comforting and Easy to Make

If you're craving a warm, savory treat that's as easy to make as it is delicious, Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the perfect choice. These biscuits are soft, cheesy, and packed with bits of savory ham and chives, all swimming in rich, melted butter. Every bite is a delightful combination of buttery goodness, sharp cheddar, and tender biscuit dough. Whether you're serving them as a side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or enjoying them as a snack, these biscuits will bring warmth and comfort to your table.

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Originating from the traditional "butter swim" biscuit method, these biscuits are baked in a pool of melted butter, which makes them extra moist and flavorful. The addition of ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives takes these classic biscuits to the next level. Not only are they simple to make, but they’re also perfect for serving a crowd, making them a go-to recipe for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday brunches.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fiber: 1g

These biscuits are incredibly satisfying and make for a delicious addition to any meal. Pair them with scrambled eggs for breakfast, serve alongside a hearty soup for lunch, or enjoy them as a savory snack.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer, they can also be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life for up to 5 days.

To reheat, simply place the biscuits in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual biscuits in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. If freezing, allow the biscuits to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Biscuits can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated in the oven or microwave after thawing.

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Fun Fact: The History of Butter Swim Biscuits

Butter swim biscuits are a variation of traditional Southern biscuits, where the dough is baked in a pan of melted butter. This method results in a biscuit that's crisp on the outside yet soft and tender on the inside. The butter swim technique is known for its simplicity since there's no need for rolling or cutting out the dough. Just mix, pour, bake, and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

Customizing the Flavor:

• To add a little heat, mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the ham and cheese.
• For a more savory flavor, you can use smoked ham or even bacon as a substitute for regular ham.
• Swap out sharp cheddar for a different cheese like gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Avoid Overmixing:When mixing the biscuit dough, stir only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can cause the biscuits to become dense and tough, so keep the stirring to a minimum to achieve a soft and tender texture.

Optional Variations

Add a Touch of Sweetness:If you enjoy a sweet and savory combo, try adding a tablespoon of honey to the biscuit dough before baking. The slight sweetness complements the sharp cheddar and salty ham perfectly.

Make It Gluten-Free:For those with dietary restrictions, these biscuits can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

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Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar, cubed
• 2 cups diced ham
• 1/4 cup diced chives
• 2 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the stick of butter in a 9x13-inch baking dish and set the dish in the preheating oven. Allow the butter to melt as the oven heats up, then remove the dish and set it aside.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, granulated garlic, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients:Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the biscuits remain tender.
4. Fold in the Ham, Cheese, and Chives:Gently fold in the cubed cheddar, diced ham, and chives into the dough. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
5. Bake in Butter:Pour the biscuit dough directly into the baking dish with the melted butter. Use a spatula to spread the dough evenly across the dish, allowing the butter to pool around the edges. The butter will soak into the dough as it bakes, giving the biscuits their signature buttery flavor.
6. Bake:Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:Allow the biscuits to cool for a few minutes in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. Serve warm, and enjoy the rich, buttery flavor with every bite!

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Final Thoughts

Ham & Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. The combination of sharp cheddar, savory ham, and fresh chives, all baked in a pool of butter, creates a flavor that's rich and satisfying. Best of all, these biscuits are easy to make and don’t require rolling or cutting dough, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend brunches. Whether you're serving them as a side dish, breakfast item, or snack, these biscuits are sure to become a family favorite!