Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Recipe

Craving a warm, cheesy, buttery biscuit with a crisp edge and tender center? Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are your next obsession. These golden beauties aren’t just delicious—they’re incredibly easy to make and absolutely unforgettable.

What Are Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits?

Butter swim biscuits originated in the South and get their name from the unique baking method—the dough is literally “swimming” in butter. This creates biscuits that are:

• Crisp and golden on the edges

• Moist and tender on the inside

• Rich with buttery flavor

The addition of ham and cheese takes them to the next level, transforming this classic into a savory, protein-packed breakfast or brunch hero.

The Origins and Rise in Popularity

Southern kitchens have long celebrated the beauty of buttery, flaky biscuits. The butter swim method, however, has recently gone viral for its foolproof, no-fuss approach—no kneading, no rolling, no biscuit cutters.

As the popularity of one-pan recipes grows, ham and cheese butter swim biscuits found their way into everyday kitchens. From busy moms to comfort food fanatics, everyone’s adding their own twist.

For a look into traditional Southern cooking culture, visit Southern Living’s heritage section for more biscuit-based dishes.

Ingredients: Simple, Accessible, Delicious

Each component in Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and structure. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients and why they matter:

Flour:

The foundation of any biscuit, all-purpose flour provides just the right amount of protein to create a tender crumb. It’s versatile and reliable—ideal for achieving a biscuit that’s soft in the center but not overly delicate.

Baking Powder:

As a key leavening agent, baking powder ensures the biscuits rise beautifully. It creates air pockets in the dough, giving them their signature light, fluffy texture.

Buttermilk:

Buttermilk adds both moisture and a tangy richness that enhances the overall flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, a quick substitute is 1 cup of milk + 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, left to sit for 5–10 minutes.

Butter:

The magic behind the “butter swim” effect lies in using fully melted butter. As the biscuits bake, the butter crisps the edges while soaking into the dough. Unsalted butter is preferred for better flavor control, but salted works too.

Ham:

Diced ham brings savory depth and texture. Use leftover baked ham, deli slices, or even cooked ham steak. Choose lean cuts for the best consistency.

Cheese:

Cheese is key to the gooey interior. Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds bold flavor, while Swiss, mozzarella, or gouda can offer interesting variations.

Chives & Garlic:

Chopped chives and a hint of garlic powder add subtle aromatic notes that lift the entire biscuit without overpowering it.

Pro tip: Use room temperature buttermilk and melted butter for best results.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits

Making Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits is surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers. Follow this simple guide to achieve biscuits that are perfectly buttery, golden, and packed with flavor.

Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). The high temperature is essential for achieving those crisp, buttery edges.

Next, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and pour it into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. This will be the “swim” base that creates the biscuits’ signature crust. Make sure the butter covers the entire bottom of the dish evenly.

Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• (Optional) 1 teaspoon sugar for a hint of sweetness

Slowly pour in 2 cups of buttermilk, stirring gently until a sticky, wet dough forms—avoid overmixing, which can make the biscuits tough.

Fold in:

• ½ cup diced ham

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons of chopped chives (optional)

Baking

Pour the dough mixture into the baking dish over the melted butter. Use a spatula to gently spread it evenly to all corners.

Using a knife, score the dough into 9 squares—this helps the biscuits bake evenly and makes slicing easier after baking.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Let the biscuits rest for 5–10 minutes after removing them from the oven to allow the butter to set.

Serve with:

• Fruit salad

• Scrambled eggs

• A light mimosa for brunch

These buttery, cheesy biscuits are perfect any time of day.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting Tips

Even simple recipes have their pitfalls. One major mistake is overmixing the dough, which can result in dense, chewy biscuits instead of a light, fluffy texture. Always mix just until combined.

Another issue is using cold butter—it won’t create the signature “swim” effect, leaving the biscuits dry. Make sure the butter is fully melted and evenly distributed in the baking dish.

Also, double-check your oven temperature. If it’s too low or high, the biscuits may bake unevenly.

For the best results, aim for a golden brown crust with soft, tender centers by scoring the dough and not overbaking.

Creative Variations and Serving Ideas

One of the best things about Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to switch up the flavors or repurpose leftovers, here are a few delicious ideas to inspire you:

Meat Alternatives

Not a fan of ham? Try one of these protein-packed swaps:

• Crispy bacon for a smoky twist

  Advertisement

• Cooked ground sausage for a breakfast-style biscuit

• Shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a leaner option

Cheese Options

Enhance the flavor by using different types of cheese:

• Mozzarella for extra meltiness

• Pepper jack to add a spicy kick

• Smoked gouda for a rich, earthy flavor

Herb Infusions

Add depth and fragrance by mixing in herbs like:

• Chopped rosemary

• Fresh thyme

• Dill or parsley for a garden-fresh finish

Serving Styles

• Breakfast Sandwiches: Slice the biscuit and add eggs, avocado, or more cheese

• Hearty Meals: Serve alongside soups, chili, or stews for a comforting lunch or dinner

• Brunch Board: Include with fruit, spreads, and cured meats for an upscale platter

These biscuits are versatile enough for any meal—and every craving.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits store well, making them perfect for meal prep or next-day enjoyment.

Short-Term Storage

• Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days

• For best texture, avoid plastic bags which can cause sogginess

Refrigeration

• Store in the fridge for up to 5 days

• To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to crisp the edges

Freezing

• Wrap individual biscuits tightly in plastic wrap or foil

• Place in a freezer bag or container; freeze for up to 3 months

Thawing & Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge or for 30 minutes at room temp

• Reheat in the oven (not microwave) to preserve the crisp, buttery texture

Following these steps ensures your biscuits stay as flaky and delicious as when they first came out of the oven.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Each serving of Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits packs both flavor and fuel. Based on standard ingredients, one biscuit contains approximately 290–320 calories.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Per Biscuit):

• Fat: 17–20g

• Carbohydrates: 28–32g

• Protein: 9–11g

• Sodium: 550–700mg (varies by cheese and ham used)

Dietary Modifications

Want a lighter option? Try these simple swaps:

• Use reduced-fat cheese or low-sodium ham to lower fat and salt levels.

• Replace half the butter with Greek yogurt for a healthier fat profile.

• Skip the ham entirely for a vegetarian version.

Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Alternatives

• For gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

• For dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk mixed with vinegar for buttermilk, and use vegan butter and cheese alternatives.

With a few tweaks, these biscuits can fit a wide variety of dietary needs—without sacrificing that rich, savory flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Whether you’re baking for the first time or experimenting with new twists, here are answers to the most common questions about Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits:

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can! If you opt for self-rising flour, be sure to omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe, as they’re already included in the mix. This shortcut simplifies the process without compromising flavor. For a full breakdown, The Country Cook offers helpful flour substitutions.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No buttermilk? No problem. You can make a quick homemade buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using. This acidic mixture replicates the tangy flavor and helps activate the baking powder.

Is it possible to make these biscuits ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the biscuit dough the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour it into the buttered pan and bake as usual. This makes them perfect for busy mornings or holiday brunches.

Can I add vegetables to the biscuits?

Yes! Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, green onions, or spinach blend well with the existing flavors. Just avoid watery veggies (like tomatoes) that may affect texture.

How do I know when the biscuits are fully baked?

Look for a deep golden-brown top and crispy edges. Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your biscuits are ready! Let them rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and crave-worthy flavor. Whether you serve them at brunch, use them for grab-and-go breakfasts, or bring them to potlucks, these biscuits are guaranteed to steal the show.

So melt that butter, stir that dough, and get ready to bite into your new favorite biscuit.