Eloise Moon There’s something magical about the aroma of buttery, golden biscuits wafting through the kitchen on a crisp morning. Whether it’s Sunday brunch or a lazy Saturday, few breakfasts hit the comfort-food spot like Butter Swim Biscuits—especially when stuffed with juicy sausage and melty cheese.
This isn’t just any biscuit recipe. This is a full-on breakfast experience: warm, savory, and indulgent, yet shockingly easy to make. If you’ve never tried a biscuit that “swims” in butter as it bakes, you’re about to enter a new era of homemade breakfast bliss.
What Are Butter Swim Biscuits?
At their core, butter swim biscuits are the epitome of Southern comfort. Unlike classic rolled or drop biscuits, these are made by pouring or spreading a loose biscuit dough directly into a pan filled with melted butter. The dough bakes right in the butter, allowing it to absorb richness and flavor while forming a crispy, golden crust.
When enhanced with crumbled sausage and melted cheese, the humble butter swim biscuit transforms into a complete, savory meal—rich, fluffy, and completely satisfying.
Why These Biscuits Are a Game-Changer
Here’s what makes these breakfast biscuits truly extraordinary:
- Crispy, buttery edges thanks to the melted butter bath
- Tender, pillowy interior from the buttermilk-based dough
- Savory, cheesy filling that adds substance and flavor
- No kneading or rolling—perfect for beginners
- Ready in under 45 minutes, including prep
It’s breakfast comfort food at its finest, and once you try them, they might just replace every other biscuit recipe you’ve known.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect butter swim biscuits doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Biscuit Dough
- 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1¾ cups (415ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted (for pan)
For the Filling
- ½ pound (225g) ground breakfast sausage (mild, spicy, or flavored)
- 1½ cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or black pepper for added kick
Tip: If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend works wonderfully. For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese.
Kitchen Tools Needed
No special equipment required—just the essentials:
- 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish (metal or glass)
- Large skillet (for cooking sausage)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Melt the Butter
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the butter into your baking dish and let it melt in the oven as it heats. Remove once melted—watch closely to avoid browning.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Biscuit Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add buttermilk and mix until just combined—do not overmix. Gently fold in the sausage and shredded cheese.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the biscuit mixture evenly over the melted butter in the pan. Gently spread to the edges. Use a knife to score the top into 9 squares—this helps with even baking and slicing.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow biscuits to cool for 5–10 minutes. Slice along the scored lines and serve warm. The crust should be crisp while the interior remains fluffy and moist.
Expert Tips for Biscuit Success
- Use cold sausage and cheese: This keeps the dough from becoming greasy.
- Avoid overmixing: Overworked dough = tough biscuits.
- Score before baking: This helps create clean, consistent slices.
- Fresh-shredded cheese melts better and tastes fresher than pre-packaged.
- Use full-fat buttermilk for the best flavor and rise.
Easy Variations to Try
Don’t be afraid to customize! These ideas will add variety without complicating the process.
Spicy Southern Biscuits
- Use spicy sausage
- Add chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes
Vegetarian Twist
- Omit meat and fold in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
Bacon Lover’s Version
- Replace sausage with crispy, chopped bacon or turkey bacon
Three-Cheese Blend
- Mix cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for bold flavor
Sweet & Savory Combo
- Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top before serving
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them:
- On their own with hot coffee or tea
- Alongside scrambled or poached eggs
- With fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast
- Sliced in half and filled with fried eggs for a biscuit sandwich
- As a brunch centerpiece with mimosas or smoothies
Storing and Reheating
To Store:
- Room temp: 1 day in an airtight container
- Fridge: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Wrap each square tightly and freeze up to 1 month
To Reheat:
- Microwave: 20–30 seconds for soft texture
- Oven: 350°F for 8–10 minutes for crisp edges
- Toaster Oven: Great for a single serving
Avoid overheating, especially in the microwave, which can make the cheese rubbery.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overbaking
- Always check around the 20-minute mark to prevent dryness.
- Using old leavening agents
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh for fluffy results.
- Not draining sausage
- Grease will make the dough soggy—drain thoroughly!
- Using too much cheese
- Excess cheese can ooze out and burn—stick to the recommended amount or fold it evenly.
- Skipping the butter pre-melt
- Melting the butter before adding the dough ensures that golden crust you’re after.
Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Note: Varies slightly based on the type of sausage and cheese used.
FAQs About Butter Swim Biscuits
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Bake, cool, and refrigerate or freeze. Reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use plant-based alternatives?
Absolutely. Use plant-based sausage and dairy-free cheese.
Q: I don’t have buttermilk. What’s a good substitute?
Mix 1¾ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes.
Q: Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but omit the baking powder and salt in the recipe.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Breakfast Spread
To balance the richness of the biscuits, try:
- Fresh fruit bowls (berries, melon, kiwi)
- Yogurt with honey and granola
- Scrambled eggs with chives
- Iced green tea or herbal infusions
- Protein smoothies with banana and spinach
Reader Challenge: Customize and Share
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, make it your own. Try a bold twist, switch up the cheese, or serve it in a new way—and tag us on Instagram or Pinterest with your creations. Use the hashtag #ButterSwimChallenge to be featured!
Final Thoughts: The Biscuit Recipe You’ll Never Forget
In a world full of breakfast options, Butter Swim Biscuits with Sausage and Cheese stand out for their comfort, simplicity, and soul-satisfying flavor. They’re everything you want on a chilly morning—or any day that deserves a bit of warmth and indulgence.
