Biscuits for breakfast? Absolutely! But we’re not talking about your ordinary plain biscuits—we’re spicing things up! Imagine biting into a soft, buttery biscuit, loaded with savory ham and a kick of jalapeño heat. Sounds like the perfect way to start your morning, right?
This ham and jalapeno biscuits recipe is a delicious twist on the classic Southern biscuit. If you’re a fan of flavorful, homemade breakfast treats, these ham and jalapeno biscuits are a must-try! It’s packed with flavor, has just the right amount of spice, and pairs beautifully with eggs, cheese, or even a little honey for that sweet-and-savory combo. Whether you’re making them for a lazy weekend breakfast or a grab-and-go snack, these biscuits will quickly become your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and ready in under 30 minutes!
✅ Perfectly Spicy: Jalapeños add just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
✅ Savory & Satisfying: Ham brings a rich, smoky flavor that makes these biscuits incredibly tasty.
✅ Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch of ham and jalapeno biscuits, freeze them, and enjoy fresh, spicy, and savory biscuits anytime!
So, if you’re ready to elevate your breakfast game, let’s dive into everything you need to know about these flavor-packed ham and jalapeno biscuits.
Ingredients Needed
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To make these savory breakfast biscuits, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together for the perfect texture and flavor.
Key Ingredients for Soft and Fluffy Biscuits
Ingredient | Quantity | Why It’s Important |
---|---|---|
All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups | The base for a soft, flaky biscuit. |
Baking Powder | 1 tbsp | Gives biscuits their rise and fluffiness. |
Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances the overall flavor. |
Butter (cold, unsalted) | ½ cup (1 stick) | Creates a tender, flaky texture. |
Buttermilk | ¾ cup | Adds moisture and a slight tangy flavor. |
Ham (diced, cooked) | ½ cup | Provides a smoky, salty bite. |
Jalapeños (chopped, fresh or pickled) | 1-2 tbsp | Brings the heat and a little crunch. |
Cheddar Cheese (optional) | ½ cup | A melty, cheesy addition for extra flavor. |
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about homemade ham and jalapeno biscuits is that you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste. Here are a few fun variations to try:
🔥 Love extra spice? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dough. If you enjoy cheesy and spicy jalapeño flavors, you might also love these Egg Roll Wrapper Cream Cheese Jalapeno Bites—a crispy, creamy, and spicy snack that’s easy to make!
🧀 Cheese lover? Try mixing in pepper jack or smoked gouda instead of cheddar.
🥓 Swap the ham! If you don’t have ham, crispy bacon or turkey works great too.
🥑 Go dairy-free! Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk with lemon juice in place of buttermilk.
🧄 Add more depth! Try mixing in some garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
How to Make Ham and Jalapeno Biscuits
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process for making these delicious breakfast biscuits.
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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare to Bake Ham and Jalapeno Biscuits
Before anything else, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cold butter and a hot oven are the secrets to getting flaky, golden biscuits.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
This ensures everything is evenly distributed, so you don’t get clumps of baking powder in your dough (yuck!).
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Now comes the fun part! Grab ½ cup of cold butter (cut into small cubes) and toss it into the flour mixture.
📝 Pro Tip: Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. The little butter chunks will melt in the oven, creating flaky layers in the biscuits.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Bombs
Time to bring in the stars of the show:
- ½ cup of diced ham
- 1-2 tablespoons of chopped jalapeños
- ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but recommended!)
Give it a quick stir to evenly distribute everything.
Step 5: Pour in the Buttermilk
Slowly add ¾ cup of buttermilk, stirring gently with a wooden spoon. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of extra buttermilk.
Step 6: Shape and Cut the Biscuits
Lightly flour a clean surface and turn the dough out. Pat it down into a ¾-inch thick slab, then use a biscuit cutter (or a drinking glass) to cut out rounds.
Place the biscuits on the baking sheet, making sure they’re touching slightly—this helps them rise higher in the oven.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
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Pop your ham and jalapeno biscuits into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top..
Step 8: Brush with Butter & Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, brush them with melted butter for an irresistible finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
“There is nothing better than a warm, flaky biscuit fresh out of the oven. These ham and jalapeño biscuits? They’re next level!”
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even the best bakers run into hiccups! Here are some common biscuit problems and their solutions:
❌ Biscuits are too hard: Overworked dough can make biscuits dense and tough. Be gentle when mixing and shaping!
❌ Not rising properly: Make sure your baking powder is fresh—it loses its power after a few months.
❌ Too dry: Add a little more buttermilk until the dough feels soft but not sticky.
❌ Biscuits are flat: The butter might have melted before baking. Keep your dough cold and work quickly!
Creative Ways to Serve Ham and Jalapeno Biscuits
So, you’ve just pulled a warm batch of ham and jalapeno biscuits out of the oven, and now you’re wondering: What’s the best way to enjoy them? While these biscuits are delicious on their own, there are so many creative ways to serve them that will take your meal to the next level.
Best Toppings and Pairings
A ham and jalapeno biscuit is like a blank canvas—it’s all about what you put on it! Here are some top-notch pairings to make your ham and jalapeno biscuits even more irresistible.
1. Classic Butter and Honey 🍯
There’s something magical about sweet and spicy flavors together. A warm biscuit with melted butter and a drizzle of honey balances the heat from the jalapeños with a touch of sweetness.
2. Cream Cheese or Whipped Herb Butter
If you’re looking for a rich and creamy addition, try spreading cream cheese or whipped herb butter over your biscuits. The tanginess of cream cheese complements the salty ham and spicy jalapeños beautifully.
3. Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich 🍳🧀
Turn your biscuit into the ultimate breakfast sandwich by adding:
- A fried or scrambled egg
- A slice of sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- Extra crispy bacon (because why not?)
Stack it all together, and you’ve got a next-level breakfast sandwich that’s perfect for busy mornings.
4. Smothered in Sausage Gravy
Want to go full Southern-style comfort food? Drench these biscuits in homemade sausage gravy for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs breakfast. The spicy jalapeños add a unique twist to the classic biscuits and gravy dish.
5. Served with Soup or Chili
Biscuits aren’t just for breakfast! Try serving them as a side dish with a bowl of warm soup or chili. The flaky texture and savory flavors pair perfectly with dishes like:
✔ Creamy tomato soup
✔ Loaded potato soup
✔ Spicy beef chili
✔ Cheesy broccoli soup
6. Made Into Mini Biscuit Sliders 🍔
Why not turn these biscuits into mini sliders? Slice them in half and fill them with:
- Pulled pork and coleslaw
- Smoked turkey and cranberry sauce
- BBQ brisket and caramelized onions
These bite-sized biscuit sandwiches make an awesome appetizer or a fun twist for game day snacks.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Now that you’ve enjoyed a few biscuits, let’s talk about how to store and reheat them so they stay fresh and delicious.
How to Store for Maximum Freshness
Ham and jalapeno biscuits taste best fresh, but you can still save leftovers for later.
At Room Temperature (Up to 2 Days)
- Let the biscuits cool completely before storing them.
- Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag.
- Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerating (Up to 5 Days)
- If you need to store them longer, pop them in the fridge.
- Wrap them in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
- Wrap each biscuit individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag and squeeze out excess air.
- Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
“Pro Tip: Freeze biscuits raw! If you want fresh biscuits anytime, make the dough, cut out the biscuits, and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 425°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.”
The Best Way to Reheat Biscuits
There’s nothing worse than dry, hard biscuits after reheating. Follow these methods to keep them soft, flaky, and just as delicious as when they were fresh.
1. Oven (Best Method for Crispiness)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place biscuits on a baking sheet and wrap them in foil to prevent them from drying out.
- Heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
2. Toaster Oven
- If you’re reheating just one or two biscuits, a toaster oven is perfect.
- Heat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
3. Microwave (Quickest Method, But Risky)
- Wrap biscuits in a damp paper towel (this keeps moisture in).
- Microwave on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Be careful not to overheat, or they’ll turn chewy instead of fluffy!
4. Skillet (For a Crispy Outside)
- Heat a skillet over low heat and add a tiny bit of butter.
- Place biscuits in the skillet and cover with a lid to trap steam.
- Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
“Want that just-baked flavor? Brush reheated biscuits with a little melted butter before serving for an extra boost of flavor.”
Variations and Dietary Adaptations
One of the best things about making homemade biscuits is the flexibility to customize them based on dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or looking to boost the protein content, there’s a variation for everyone.
Gluten-Free and Keto Versions
For those avoiding gluten, you can still enjoy soft and fluffy biscuits with a few modifications.
Gluten-Free Ham and Jalapeno Biscuits
To make these biscuits gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour (such as Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur).
📝 Pro Tip: Add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your gluten-free flour doesn’t already include it. This helps mimic the elasticity of gluten, preventing crumbly biscuits.
Keto-Friendly Biscuits
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, replace regular flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
Keto Biscuit Swap:
✔ 2 cups almond flour instead of all-purpose flour
✔ 2 teaspoons baking powder
✔ ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum (for texture)
✔ ¼ cup butter (or coconut oil)
✔ 2 large eggs instead of buttermilk
Since almond flour is denser than regular flour, eggs help bind the dough and provide moisture. These keto-friendly biscuits will be slightly more delicate but still delicious!
Making Dairy-Free Ham and Jalapeno Biscuits
Going dairy-free? No problem! Just make a few easy swaps:
✔ Use coconut oil instead of butter for a flaky texture.
✔ Substitute almond milk (or oat milk) with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk.
✔ Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like Violife or Daiya.
These swaps will keep your biscuits light, buttery, and just as flavorful!
Adding Extra Protein for a Hearty Breakfast
If you’re looking to boost the protein content in your biscuits, here are a few simple tricks:
💪 Use Greek Yogurt: Swap half the buttermilk for plain Greek yogurt to add a protein punch.
🥚 Add an Extra Egg: This makes the biscuits richer and more nutritious.
🧀 Mix in More Cheese: A high-protein cheese like Parmesan or cheddar can enhance both flavor and protein.
🥓 Include More Meat: Instead of just ham, throw in crispy bacon or turkey sausage for added protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Now, let’s tackle some fun and interesting questions related to baking and food in general!
1. What is the secret ingredient in Cheez-Its?
Ever wondered why Cheez-Its have that addictive cheesy flavor? The secret ingredient is paprika extract!
Paprika not only enhances the golden color of the crackers but also gives them a hint of smokiness that makes them extra tasty.
2. Do peanut butter and chocolate go together?
Absolutely! Peanut butter and chocolate are one of the best sweet-and-salty flavor combos out there.
✔ The creaminess of peanut butter balances the bitterness of dark chocolate.
✔ The natural salt in peanut butter enhances the sweetness of chocolate.
✔ It’s a classic pairing used in Reese’s cups, brownies, and cookies!
👉 Want to try a unique take on this classic combo? Check out this Simple Recipe for Cheez-It Peanut Butter and Chocolate—a crunchy, cheesy, and sweet treat that will surprise your taste buds!
3. What was the old name for Cheez-Its?
Before they became the famous Cheez-Its, these cheesy crackers were originally sold as “Green & Green Cheese Crackers” in 1921!
The name was later changed to Cheez-It to better emphasize the cheesy goodness inside.
4. What are the ingredients for Cheez-Its?
If you want to make your own version of Cheez-Its, here’s what you’ll need:
✔ Flour
✔ Cheddar cheese (real, sharp cheddar!)
✔ Butter
✔ Salt
✔ Paprika (for color and flavor)
Just mix, roll out, cut into squares, and bake for crispy, cheesy perfection!
Conclusion
So, there you have it—the ultimate guide to making ham and jalapeno biscuits! Whether you like them fluffy and buttery, gluten-free, keto, or protein-packed, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize.
💡 Quick Recap:
✔ We started with a step-by-step guide to making these biscuits.
✔ Explored creative ways to serve them—from honey butter to breakfast sandwiches.
✔ Covered storage and reheating tips for keeping them fresh.
✔ Discussed dietary adaptations, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and high-protein options.
✔ Answered some fun food-related FAQs (because who doesn’t love a little trivia?).
👉Now, it’s your turn! Try this ham and jalapeno biscuits recipe, experiment with your own variations, and let us know how they turn out!
“A homemade biscuit is always better than store-bought. Add ham and jalapeños? Now you’ve got something truly special!”
Happy baking! 🍽️🔥