Christmas Ham & Cheddar Biscuit Bombs

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands!)
• 4 ounces cooked ham, diced
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, dried parsley, and garlic powder. This is your flavor boost!

4. Open the can of biscuit dough and separate each biscuit.

5. Flatten each biscuit slightly with your hands or a rolling pin.

6. Place a spoonful of the ham and cheddar mixture in the center of each flattened biscuit.

7. Bring the edges of the biscuit dough up and over the filling, pinching to seal completely. Ensure no cheese or ham is exposed.

8. Brush the tops of the biscuit bombs with the melted butter mixture.

9. Place the sealed biscuit bombs on the prepared baking sheet.

10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

11. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Perfecting Your Biscuit Bombs

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor. Opt for a good quality ham. This makes a noticeable difference.

Sharp cheddar offers a bolder, more pronounced cheesy taste. Mild cheddar is okay, but sharp provides that extra zing.

Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can inhibit melting.

Baking for Success

Avoid overbaking. Overbaking can lead to dry, tough biscuit bombs.

A light golden brown is the perfect color. It indicates they are cooked through but still moist inside.

Make sure the centers are fully cooked. Use a toothpick to test if needed.

Creative Variations

Experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack would be delicious.

Add vegetables to the filling. Sautéed onions, peppers, or spinach can add extra flavor and nutrients.

Use different types of meat. Try cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast, Brunch, or Snack

Biscuit bombs are perfect for a quick breakfast. They are equally enjoyable for brunch.

These are also a great snack. Pack them for picnics or road trips.

Serve alongside fresh fruit. Berries, grapes, or melon complement the savory flavors.

Dipping Sauces

Offer a variety of dipping sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, or a simple cheese sauce are great choices.

A spicy mayo adds a kick. A sweet chili sauce provides a sweet and savory contrast.

Consider a homemade gravy. This elevates the biscuit bombs to a comforting meal.

Complete Meal Ideas

Serve with a side salad. This creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Add a cup of soup. Tomato soup or a creamy vegetable soup pairs well.

Make a batch for a holiday gathering. They are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Preparing in Advance

You can assemble the biscuit bombs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Brush with the melted butter mixture just before baking. This prevents the biscuits from becoming soggy.

Consider prepping the filling the night before. This saves time on the day of baking.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover biscuit bombs in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Reheat in the oven or microwave. Reheating in the oven helps maintain their crispy texture.

For longer storage, freeze the biscuit bombs. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating Tips

To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Microwaving can make them a bit soft. Use short bursts and check frequently to avoid overheating.

A toaster oven is a great option for reheating a single biscuit bomb. It provides even heat and crispy results.

Tips for Perfect Biscuit Dough

Handling the Dough

Keep the dough cold. Cold dough is easier to work with.

Don’t overwork the dough. Overworking can result in tough biscuits.

Use a light touch when flattening the biscuits. Gently press them down to avoid tearing.

Sealing the Bombs

Pinch the edges firmly. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.

Ensure a complete seal. Check for any gaps or openings.

If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands. This will make it easier to handle.

Adding Extra Flavor

Sprinkle the tops with everything bagel seasoning. This adds a savory and crunchy element.

Brush with garlic butter after baking. This enhances the savory flavor.

Add a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese before baking. This creates a cheesy crust.

Understanding Biscuit Dough Chemistry

The Role of Gluten

Gluten is formed when flour is mixed with water. It gives the dough its structure and elasticity.

Overmixing develops too much gluten. This results in tough, chewy biscuits.

Use a gentle hand to minimize gluten development. This will ensure tender biscuits.

The Importance of Fat

Fat adds flavor and tenderness. It also helps to create flaky layers.

Cold butter is essential for flaky biscuits. Keep the butter chilled until ready to use.

Melted butter provides a different texture. It results in a more tender, cake-like biscuit.

Baking Powder and Leavening

Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent. It produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes the dough to rise.

Ensure your baking powder is fresh. Expired baking powder will not provide enough lift.

Avoid opening the oven door too often during baking. This can cause the biscuits to deflate.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well. Pepper jack, Gruyere, or Swiss are all good options.

Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can assemble the biscuit bombs and freeze them before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the edges of the biscuit dough tightly. Pinch them together firmly to prevent any gaps.

Can I use homemade biscuit dough?

Yes, homemade biscuit dough will work perfectly. Just be sure to roll it out to the appropriate thickness.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can substitute yellow mustard or omit it altogether. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, but it’s not essential.