Name: Amazing Beef Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 biscuits
Ingredients: 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup (240ml) Cold Buttermilk; 1/2 cup (113g) Unsalted Butter, melted; 1 pound Beef Breakfast Sausage; 1 cup (113g) Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! Prepare to redefine your breakfast or brunch experience with a dish that promises unparalleled comfort and flavor. I am absolutely delighted to present a recipe that takes the beloved Southern tradition of tender, buttery biscuits and elevates it to new heights with the irresistible additions of savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese.

This ingenious “butter swim” method, a cherished secret from Southern kitchens, simplifies the often-intimidating biscuit-making process. It guarantees a crisp, golden-brown exterior and an unbelievably fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior, without the usual fuss of cutting or folding dough.

Why do people love this dish so much?

The answer lies in its perfect harmony of tastes and textures: the hearty, savory notes of the sausage and cheese are perfectly complemented by the rich, buttery goodness of the biscuit itself. Every bite offers a delightful contrast—from the irresistibly crispy bottom and edges, steeped in butter, to the supremely soft and airy center. This unique approach consistently yields simply perfect Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!

Ingredients:

2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour: I always reach for unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture in my Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!.
1 tablespoon Baking Powder: This is a key leavening agent that helps our biscuits rise beautifully.

1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda: Works with the buttermilk to create that perfect lift and tenderness.
1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory flavors and enhance browning.

1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning the dough itself.
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the sausage and cheese.
1 cup (240ml) Cold Buttermilk: The star ingredient for a tender, tangy biscuit. Make sure it’s cold!

1/2 cup (113g) Unsalted Butter: Melted, for the glorious “butter swim” base.
1 pound Breakfast Sausage: A good quality, mild breakfast sausage works wonders, but feel free to spice it up with a hot variety if you dare!
1 cup (113g) Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I highly recommend shredding your own from a block for the best melt and flavor in these Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!.

Preparing the Sausage and Cheese Mixture

Cook the Breakfast Sausage: First, let’s get that savory breakfast sausage ready. I like to use a high-quality, mild breakfast sausage for these Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!, but if you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy variety would also be absolutely delightful! You’ll want to crumble it into a large skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon or a meat masher, ensuring no large chunks remain. We’re aiming for a lovely, even texture throughout our biscuits. Continue to cook until it’s beautifully browned and thoroughly cooked through, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink remaining.
Drain the Excess Grease: Once the sausage is thoroughly cooked, it’s crucial to drain off any excess grease. Trust me, leaving too much grease will make our biscuits a bit oily, and we want them perfectly tender and buttery, not greasy. I usually do this by transferring the cooked sausage to a plate lined with a few layers of paper towels, letting it sit for a minute or two to absorb all that extra fat. You can even gently press down on the sausage with another paper towel to squeeze out more if needed.
Cool and Combine with Cheese: While the sausage is draining and cooling slightly, this is the perfect time to prepare your cheese. I always recommend grating your own sharp cheddar cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts and incorporates into the dough, and for these Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!, we want nothing but the best! Once the sausage has cooled enough that it’s no longer piping hot – you don’t want to melt the cheese prematurely – transfer it to a medium-sized bowl. Add your freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl with the sausage. Give it a gentle toss to combine. This preliminary step ensures that the sausage and cheese are evenly distributed throughout our biscuit dough, so every bite of your Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! will be bursting with flavor. Set this delicious mixture aside for a moment.

Making the Biscuit Dough

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Before we dive into the dough, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to a robust 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that beautiful rise and golden-brown crust on our biscuits. While the oven is heating, grab a standard 9×13 inch baking dish. This size is ideal for the “swim” aspect of these biscuits, allowing them to bake perfectly without crowding.
Melt the Butter: Now for the “butter swim” part! Take your 1/2 cup (113g) of unsalted butter and place it directly into your 9×13 inch baking dish. Pop the dish into the preheating oven for just a few minutes, or microwave it for about 30-60 seconds, until the butter is completely melted. Once melted, carefully remove the dish from the oven (use oven mitts, it will be hot!). Make sure the melted butter evenly coats the bottom of the dish. This butter forms a delicious, crispy base and ensures every inch of our Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! is infused with buttery goodness.
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients. You want to make sure the leavening agents and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step is more important than it might seem; it ensures a consistent rise and flavor in every single biscuit. Giving it a good whisk for about 30 seconds should do the trick.

Add Buttermilk: Now, create a small well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour in the 1 cup of cold buttermilk. Using cold buttermilk is important because it helps keep the butter (that we’ll be adding later in the form of the butter swim) from melting too quickly, resulting in flakier, tender biscuits. While we’re not cutting in cold butter directly into the dough like traditional biscuits, the cold buttermilk still contributes to a tender crumb by slowing down gluten development.
Gently Mix the Dough: With a sturdy spoon or spatula, gently mix the buttermilk into the dry ingredients. Start from the center and gradually incorporate the flour from the sides. Mix just until a shaggy dough forms and most of the flour is moistened. It’s absolutely crucial not to overmix here! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough, dense biscuits, and we are striving for light, fluffy, and tender Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!. A few lumps of flour are perfectly acceptable and even desirable at this stage.
Fold in Sausage and Cheese: Once your dough is just barely combined, add your pre-cooked and cooled sausage and shredded cheese mixture to the bowl. Use your spoon or spatula to gently fold the sausage and cheese into the dough. Continue to mix just until the sausage and cheese are evenly distributed. Again, be mindful not to overmix. You should still have a somewhat shaggy, slightly sticky dough that’s come together. The warmth and aroma of the sausage and cheese will already be enticing at this point!

Assembling the Butter Swim Biscuits

Pour Dough into Melted Butter: Carefully pour or spoon your prepared biscuit dough directly into the baking dish, right on top of the melted butter. The dough will be soft and somewhat sticky, which is exactly what we want for these amazing Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!.
Gently Spread and Pat: Using your spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the dough evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. You want to create a relatively uniform layer, but there’s no need for perfection. The melted butter will start to seep up around the edges of the dough, creating that signature “swim.” Resist the urge to press down too hard on the dough; keep it light and airy to encourage a beautiful rise. Your hands are also a great tool for gently patting the dough into place if you prefer, just be careful of the warm butter.
Score the Biscuits: Now, for the final touch before baking, take a sharp knife or a bench scraper and gently score the top of the dough. You’re not cutting all the way through, just making indentations to guide where the biscuits will separate after baking. I usually score it into 12 squares (3 rows by 4 rows) for a good, generous size. This step helps ensure individual portions that are easy to break apart once baked, and it also helps the heat penetrate evenly, encouraging a consistent bake throughout your pan of Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!. This also allows the butter to truly swim around each individual biscuit piece as it bakes, creating those wonderfully crispy edges and a perfectly tender interior.

Baking the Biscuits

Bake Until Golden: Carefully place your baking dish into the preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Let the magic happen! Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them, especially towards the end. You’re looking for a beautiful, deep golden-brown color on top of the biscuits. The edges will be wonderfully crispy from the butter, and the center should be puffed up and look thoroughly cooked. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible, a delightful mix of savory sausage, tangy cheese, and rich butter – truly the scent of perfect Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!.
Check for Doneness: To be absolutely sure your biscuits are cooked through, you can insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of one of the middle biscuits. It should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet dough. If they look perfectly golden but you’re worried about the inside, you can always tent the pan loosely with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while ensuring the inside finishes cooking.
Cool Slightly and Serve: Once your Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! emerge from the oven, gloriously golden and bubbling with buttery goodness, carefully remove the dish. Let them cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. This short cooling period allows them to set up a bit, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart. The butter will also continue to absorb into the base of the biscuits, making them even more tender and flavorful.

Serving Your Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!

Enjoy Immediately: These biscuits are truly best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. You can use the scoring lines as a guide to easily break apart individual biscuits. The bottom will be golden and slightly crispy from soaking in that delicious butter, while the tops will be soft and fluffy, studded with savory sausage and melted cheese.
Pairing Suggestions: While these Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! are incredibly satisfying on their own, they also make a fantastic addition to a hearty breakfast or brunch spread. I love serving them alongside a simple scramble of eggs, or with a fresh fruit salad to cut through the richness. They’re also surprisingly delicious with a dollop of apple butter or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite condiments!
Storage Tips: If, by some miracle, you have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I suggest popping them in a warm oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or in a toaster oven, until they’re warmed through and slightly crispy again. This will help revive that lovely texture and prevent them from becoming too soft in the microwave. They won’t be quite as gloriously fresh as straight from the oven, but they’ll still be wonderfully delicious and a testament to how good these Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits! truly are!

Conclusion:

As we reach the culmination of our culinary journey, I hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about what we’ve just explored. This isn’t just another biscuit recipe; it’s an experience, a delightful fusion of comfort and innovation that I genuinely believe will revolutionize your baking routine. From the moment the tantalizing aroma begins to waft through your kitchen, filling every corner with notes of rich butter, savory sausage, and melting cheese, you’ll know you’re onto something truly special. These biscuits are a testament to the magic that happens when simple, wholesome ingredients are brought together in a clever way. Forget dry, crumbly biscuits; ours are an embodiment of pure, unadulterated pleasure, featuring those perfectly crisp, golden-brown tops and incredibly soft, fluffy, and tender interiors, all thanks to that genius ‘butter swim’ method. The savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese are not just add-ins; they are integral players, creating a symphony of flavors that is both deeply satisfying and utterly addictive. This recipe promises not just a meal, but a moment of sheer culinary bliss, making it an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates hearty, homemade goodness.

I truly can’t overstate the versatility and sheer deliciousness packed into every bite. Whether you’re planning a cozy breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or even a comforting side for dinner, these biscuits rise to every occasion with grace and flavor. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them, along with some exciting variations to spark your creativity:

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment:

The Classic Breakfast Spread: Imagine a leisurely Sunday morning. These biscuits are absolutely divine served warm alongside perfectly scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or a dollop of creamy grits. For an extra layer of indulgence, a generous ladle of homemade sausage gravy over the top transforms them into an iconic, hearty Southern breakfast that will leave everyone utterly satisfied. The robust flavor of the gravy perfectly complements the richness of the biscuit itself.
A Sweet and Savory Twist: Don’t be afraid to experiment! While inherently savory, these biscuits can surprise and delight with a drizzle of maple syrup or a smear of your favorite fig jam. The interplay between the salty sausage, sharp cheese, and sweet syrup creates an unexpected, yet incredibly harmonious, flavor profile that is truly unique and worth exploring.
Accompaniment to Hearty Meals: These aren’t just for breakfast! They make an exceptional side dish for a variety of dinner meals. Think alongside a steaming bowl of chili, a robust beef stew, or a comforting chicken pot pie. Their absorbent texture and rich flavor make them perfect for sopping up delicious sauces and gravies, enhancing the entire dining experience. They also shine brightly next to a simple roasted chicken or pork tenderloin, adding a touch of rustic elegance to your plate.

Mini Sandwiches or Sliders: For a fun appetizer or a quick lunch, split these biscuits and fill them with thinly sliced ham, turkey, or even a fried egg. They hold up beautifully, creating delightful little sandwiches that are perfect for gatherings or packed lunches.

Exciting Variations to Explore:

Cheese Adventures: While sharp cheddar is a classic for a reason, don’t hesitate to switch things up! Colby Jack offers a milder, meltier experience, while pepper jack introduces a delightful, subtle kick. For a smoky, more sophisticated twist, try incorporating some smoked gouda. A blend of cheeses can also create a complex flavor profile that keeps every bite interesting.
Sausage Swap-Outs: The type of sausage you use can dramatically alter the biscuit’s character. Hot Italian sausage will bring a fiery zest, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat. Sweet Italian sausage provides a fennel-infused aroma that is utterly delightful. If you prefer a leaner option, crumbled turkey or chicken sausage can also work wonderfully, just be sure to season it well. For our vegetarian friends, a plant-based breakfast sausage alternative can be an excellent substitution, ensuring everyone can enjoy this marvelous creation.

Herbaceous Additions: A sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped herbs can elevate the flavor tremendously. Chives lend a delicate oniony note, while a touch of fresh thyme or rosemary (used sparingly, as they are potent) can add an earthy depth that is truly captivating. Experiment with what you love!
A Touch of Spice: For those who love a bit more warmth, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients or directly into the sausage mix. This subtle heat can enhance the savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
Gluten-Free Flour: If you or someone you’re baking for has dietary restrictions, you can absolutely adapt this recipe. Using a good quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend will yield delicious results, though the texture might be slightly different – perhaps a bit denser, but still incredibly flavorful.

I genuinely hope that these

Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits!

become a new favorite in your kitchen, a go-to recipe for those moments when you crave something truly comforting and profoundly satisfying. The ease of preparation, combined with the phenomenal outcome, makes this a recipe you’ll return to again and again. It’s more than just food; it’s an invitation to create, to share, and to savor. There’s an undeniable joy that comes from pulling a tray of these golden beauties from the oven, filling your home with an aroma that promises warmth and happiness.

So, please, take the plunge! Give this wonderful recipe a try. I am so confident that you will fall in love with these biscuits, just as I have. Don’t be shy – I absolutely adore hearing about your culinary adventures. Once you’ve baked up your batch, I encourage you to share your experience! Tell me what you loved, what variations you tried, or who you shared them with. Your feedback and stories inspire me and our whole community of home bakers. Let’s spread the buttery, cheesy, sausage-filled joy! Happy baking!