Ham and Cheese Swim Biscuits

Warm and savory Ham and Cheese Swim Biscuits are pure comfort food with a golden crust and melty center, perfect when you crave something homemade and truly satisfying. They are especially good for a quick weekend breakfast or a cozy snack on chilly afternoons when only something rich and cheesy will do.

They make my kitchen smell absolutely amazing every time. The first time I made these was at my grandmother&s house, and now every holiday breakfast feels incomplete without a warm batch.

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: gives structure and lightness. Make sure it is fresh for best results
• Baking powder: essential for the classic biscuit rise and fluffiness. Always check the expiration date
• Salt and pepper: balance the richness and flavor. Use freshly ground black pepper for a little extra kick
• Grated cheddar cheese: melts into creamy pockets throughout. Choose sharp cheddar for more pronounced cheese flavor
• Diced ham: brings savory bites to every piece. Use real ham steak or leftover deli ham for the best texture
• Unsalted butter, melted: creates that signature golden and crisp base. Go for high-quality butter when possible
• Whole milk: makes the dough tender and keeps the crumb moist. Full-fat milk gives the richest taste

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat so your biscuits puff up and brown perfectly

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until everything looks uniform. This helps with even distribution later

Stir in Cheese and Ham:

Add grated cheddar and diced ham directly into the dry mix. Use your hands or a spoon to gently toss so every bite will have some cheese and ham

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a smaller bowl, blend melted butter with whole milk until the mixture looks creamy and combined. This step helps prevent overmixing later

Fold Wet into Dry:

Pour the milk and butter mixture into your dry mix. Gently fold with a spatula or wooden spoon just until there are no big streaks of flour left. The dough will be thick and a little lumpy, which is perfect for a tender biscuit

Prepare Baking Dish:

Pour any remaining melted butter evenly into the bottom of your greased or parchment-lined baking dish. This creates the classic buttery swim for the biscuits

Portion the Biscuits:

Spoon generous dollops of the dough on top of the melted butter. Try to keep them evenly spaced for even cooking. You do not need to shape them perfectly

Bake to Perfection:

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are deeply golden brown and a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Watch closely near the end to avoid over-browning

Cool and Serve:

Allow biscuits to cool in the dish for a few minutes before serving so they set up a bit and are easier to lift out

My favorite thing about this recipe is the edge pieces where the cheese crisps up and the butter forms a golden crust. My family always fights over those crunchy corners, especially during holiday brunches

Flavor Boosters

You can swap in Swiss or Monterey Jack for the cheddar if you like a milder or nuttier cheese. For a smoky flavor, try diced smoked turkey instead of ham. If dairy is an issue, use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk and plant-based butter

Serving Suggestions

Serve these biscuits hot with a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey on top. They go great next to scrambled eggs or a big green salad. If you are hosting brunch, try pairing with fresh fruit and hot coffee for a meal that stretches easily for guests

Creative Twists

For a spring version, stir in chopped fresh chives or green onions. With a little diced bell pepper, these biscuits become colorful for summer celebrations. During fall, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to evoke cozy fireside flavors. In winter, nothing beats the original with plenty of extra melted butter on top

With these biscuits you get comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Every time I bake them I think of family mornings full of laughter and warmth. Try them once and you will see just how quickly homemade biscuits disappear.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I ensure my biscuits are flaky?

Use cold milk and handle the dough gently to avoid overmixing. This ensures light, tender layers.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, a mix of sharp and mild cheddar or even Swiss will add depth and vary the flavor profile.

→ What type of ham works best?

Diced cooked ham, such as leftover roast or deli ham, integrates well for a balanced bite.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can these biscuits be frozen?

Yes, cool biscuits completely before freezing in a sealed bag; reheat gently before serving.