Sausage and Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits
The scent of baking biscuits always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She made them every Sunday morning, and the aroma of warm, buttery dough filled the house. While her classic recipe was always a treat, these Sausage and Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits offer a savory twist that brings back those same feelings of warmth and comfort with a kick. The salty sausage and sharp cheddar make them irresistible, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. They’re rustic, easy, and utterly delicious – a true embodiment of home cooking.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Yields: 38 Biscuits
- Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 (1 lb) package sausage (I like Jimmy Deans Hot)
- 1 (16 ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups Bisquick
- 1 -2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic (Optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large Frying Pan
- Cheese Grater (if using block cheese)
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Cookie Sheet
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the biscuits bake evenly and get that perfect golden-brown crust.
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In a large frying pan, cook the sausage over medium heat until it is thoroughly browned. Make sure to break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning. Do not drain the grease. Set the sausage aside in the pan. The fat from the sausage adds extra flavor and moisture to the biscuits.
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If you’re using a block of cheddar cheese, now is the time to grate it. If you’re using pre-shredded cheese, simply set it aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick and milk. Start with one cup of milk and gradually add more until a dough forms a ball. You want the dough to be moist but not overly sticky.
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Now, for the fun part! Knead the sausage and grease, cheese, and optional garlic into the dough ball. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial for getting that signature sausage and cheddar flavor in every bite.
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Separate the dough into 1 1/2 inch dough balls. You can use a spoon or your hands to scoop and shape the dough. They don’t need to be perfect – the rustic look is part of their charm.
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Drop the dough balls onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Give them a little space so they can expand during baking.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. The biscuits are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- For an extra crispy top, brush the biscuits with melted butter or milk before baking.
- Don’t overmix the dough! Overmixing can result in tough biscuits. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- If you want to add a little heat, try using hot sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dough.
- For softer biscuits, use a higher fat percentage milk.
- Make sure to use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar works well.
- If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, you can make your own by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These Sausage and Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits are best served warm, straight from the oven. They’re delicious on their own, or you can pair them with eggs, gravy, or a side of fruit for a complete breakfast or brunch.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave.
For longer storage, you can freeze the biscuits. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 424.4 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 261 kcal | 62% |
| Total Fat | 29.1 g | 44% |
| Saturated Fat | 13.4 g | 67% |
| Cholesterol | 65.2 mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 913.7 mg | 38% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.8 g | 7% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% |
| Sugars | 3.9 g | N/A |
| Protein | 17.2 g | 34% |
Variations & Substitutions
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with crumbled plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
- Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere.
- Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or thyme, to the dough for extra flavor.
- For a sweeter biscuit, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough.
- If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free Bisquick mix or make your own gluten-free biscuit mix.
- Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dough.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make these biscuits ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage.
Q: What if I don’t have Bisquick?
A: You can make your own Bisquick substitute by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening.
Q: How do I prevent the biscuits from being dry?
A: Make sure to add enough milk to the dough so that it forms a moist but not overly sticky ball. Also, avoid overbaking the biscuits.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
A: Yes, feel free to add other ingredients, such as chopped vegetables, herbs, or spices, to customize the flavor of your biscuits.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine! These Sausage and Cheddar Cheese Drop Biscuits are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. And most importantly, have fun! I’d love to hear what you think of the recipe and any variations you try. Share your creations and feedback, and maybe even pair them with a steaming mug of coffee for the ultimate comfort food experience. Happy baking!