Delicious Red Lobster Cheese Loaf

This homemade version of Red Lobster's cheese biscuits transformed into a loaf brings that restaurant experience right to your dinner table with minimal effort. The warm, cheesy goodness wrapped in a soft bread texture makes this the perfect companion for practically any meal.

I first created this loaf when unexpected dinner guests arrived and I needed something impressive fast. The familiar flavors of Red Lobster's famous biscuits in an easy-to-slice loaf format was such a hit that it's now requested at every family gathering we host.

Ingredients

• Biscuit mix: Such as Bisquick creates the perfect texture without complicated measuring of leavening agents
• Cold water: Keeps the dough properly hydrated while maintaining a tender crumb
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded from a block rather than pre-shredded provides better melting and flavor
• Butter: Unsalted is preferred so you can control the saltiness of the final product
• Garlic powder: Infuses that signature savory flavor throughout every bite
• Dried parsley flakes: Add a pop of color and subtle herbal note to balance the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Begin by setting your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature allows the loaf to cook through evenly without burning the exterior. Take a standard loaf pan approximately 9x5 inches and coat it thoroughly with cooking spray or butter. Make sure to get into all corners to prevent sticking which can tear your beautiful loaf when removing.

Create the Dough:

In a medium mixing bowl, measure out exactly 2 cups of biscuit mix. Add the cold water slowly while stirring with a wooden spoon. The cold temperature is crucial as it prevents the butter in the mix from melting prematurely. Once combined but not overmixed, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. The dough should look somewhat lumpy with visible cheese pieces throughout. Overmixing will result in a tough loaf, so stop stirring as soon as all ingredients are incorporated.

Transfer and Shape:

Scrape the dough into your prepared loaf pan using a silicone spatula to get every bit of the cheesy mixture. Gently spread it to fill the corners of the pan and create an even top surface. The dough will be thick and sticky, which is exactly what you want for a tender finished product.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the loaf pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. The loaf is done when the top has a beautiful golden brown color and the toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven door frequently as temperature fluctuations can affect rising.

Create the Signature Topping:

In the final 5 minutes of baking, prepare the garlic butter topping. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl and stir in the garlic powder and dried parsley until thoroughly mixed. This aromatic mixture will be brushed over the hot loaf immediately after baking, allowing the flavors to seep into the bread while still hot.

Apply the Finishing Touch:

Remove the loaf from the oven and while still in the pan, immediately brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the entire top surface. The heat from the freshly baked loaf will help the butter penetrate deep into the bread, infusing it with garlicky goodness.

Cool and Slice:

Allow the loaf to rest in the pan for exactly 10 minutes. This resting period lets the interior structure set while still maintaining moistness. Then transfer to a wire cooling rack to prevent sogginess from condensation. Wait until the loaf is just warm to the touch before slicing with a serrated knife for clean cuts.

My family particularly loves the corner pieces where the cheese has caramelized against the pan walls. These crispy, extra flavorful bites are always claimed first at our table. I remember one Christmas dinner when my brother-in-law actually negotiated trading his dessert portion for the end piece of this cheese biscuit loaf.

Storage Solutions

This loaf maintains its quality remarkably well when stored properly. After cooling completely, wrap the loaf tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though the texture may become slightly more dense. To restore that fresh-baked quality, slice individual portions and toast lightly or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.

Brilliant Variations

The basic recipe serves as an excellent canvas for creative adaptations. Try adding 1/4 cup of finely diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or fold in 1/3 cup crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor profile. For an Italian twist, substitute the cheddar with mozzarella and add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the dough. You can even transform this into a complete meal by layering thin slices of ham and additional cheese in the middle of the dough before baking.

Pin it

Perfect Pairings

This cheese biscuit loaf shines brightest when paired with complementary dishes. Serve alongside a creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience. For a more substantial meal, offer it with roasted chicken and vegetables, allowing the loaf to soak up the savory juices. During the holidays, this loaf makes an impressive alternative to dinner rolls, especially when placed in a bread basket lined with a cloth napkin to keep it warm throughout the meal. The versatility of this recipe means it works equally well for casual family dinners or more formal gatherings.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorites for a new twist.

→ Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Absolutely, just use a gluten-free biscuit mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftover cheese biscuit loaf?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat slices in an oven or microwave for the best taste.

→ What can I serve with this loaf?

This cheese biscuit loaf pairs well with soups, salads, grilled meats, or even as a snack on its own with some butter.

→ Can I freeze the loaf for later?

Yes, wrap the cooled loaf tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.