
This hearty Sausage Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits recipe transforms a simple breakfast into something extraordinary. The flaky biscuits soak up all that golden butter while baking, creating crispy edges and a tender interior packed with savory sausage and melty cheese.
I first made these biscuits when hosting an impromptu brunch for unexpected weekend guests. The smell of sausage and butter filled my kitchen and everyone asked for the recipe before they even finished their first serving.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour forms the foundation of these tender biscuits
- Granulated sugar balances the savory flavors with just a touch of sweetness
- Baking powder gives these biscuits their impressive rise
- Buttermilk creates the tender crumb that makes these biscuits irresistible
- Breakfast sausage provides savory flavor throughout every bite
- Cheddar cheese melts beautifully for pockets of cheesy goodness
- Salted butter creates the magical swimming pool that transforms the biscuits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and thoroughly spray a 9x9 inch glass or ceramic baking dish with nonstick spray. The high temperature is crucial for developing that golden crust while keeping the interior tender.
- Cook The Sausage
- Brown the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium high heat until completely cooked through about 8 to 10 minutes. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks for even distribution throughout the biscuits. Drain well on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Mix The Biscuit Batter
- In a medium bowl whisk together the flour sugar and baking powder until well combined. Add the buttermilk starting with 1¾ cups and stirring until you achieve a sticky batter. The consistency should be thicker than pancake batter but looser than traditional biscuit dough. Add more buttermilk if needed.
- Add The Flavorful Mix Ins
- Gently fold the cheese and cooked sausage into the batter being careful not to overmix. You want pockets of cheese and sausage throughout the finished biscuits not a homogeneous mixture.
- Create The Butter Bath
- Pour the melted butter into your prepared baking dish creating an even layer. This butter bath is what gives the biscuits their signature crispy golden bottom and edges.
- Assemble And Prepare For Baking
- Carefully spoon the biscuit dough over the melted butter and spread it evenly to the edges. Use a knife to score the dough into 9 equal squares which will make serving easier after baking.
- Bake To Golden Perfection
- Bake on the middle rack for 25 to 30 minutes rotating once halfway through for even browning. The biscuits are done when deeply golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly cover loosely with foil.

The breakfast sausage truly makes this recipe special. I learned from my grandmother that taking the time to fully brown the sausage before adding it to the batter creates those little caramelized bits that add incredible depth of flavor throughout the biscuits.
Make Ahead Options
These biscuits are perfect for meal prep and busy mornings. You can cook the sausage up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The dry ingredients can be measured and mixed the night before too. On the morning you want to serve them simply combine everything add the butter and bake.
Creative Variations
While the classic breakfast sausage and cheddar combination is delicious there are countless ways to customize these biscuits. Try using Italian sausage and mozzarella for an Italian twist or chorizo and pepper jack for a spicy Southwestern version. Vegetarians can substitute plant based sausage crumbles with excellent results.
Serving Suggestions
These biscuits are substantial enough to serve on their own but they also pair beautifully with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete breakfast. For dinner try serving them alongside a simple green salad. My family particularly loves them drizzled with a bit of honey or maple syrup to create a perfect sweet and savory balance.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat place in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through or use a toaster oven for smaller portions. The microwave works in a pinch but will soften the crispy edges that make these biscuits special.

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor, you can substitute with monterey jack, colby, pepper jack, or gruyere. Just ensure it's a good melting cheese for best results.
- → What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, thinned yogurt or sour cream can work in a pinch.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated. However, for best rise and texture, it's recommended to pour it over the melted butter just before baking.
- → Why is my dough too wet or too dry?
The consistency of the dough can vary depending on flour absorption and ingredients. Add buttermilk gradually until you reach a sticky but cohesive consistency. If too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until workable.
- → Can I make these without meat for a vegetarian option?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add extra cheese or mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. For added protein, consider including scrambled eggs or plant-based meat alternatives.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave individual biscuits for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.