cheddar biscuits

My husband is a huge fan of the cheddar biscuits they bring to the table at Red Lobster. If he could go and eat just those, he would be a happy man. My mom told me that in her Food Network Magazine they came up with a recipe that tried to duplicate these yummy biscuits. I knew I had to try them out and see if they were as good. I must say....they are almost exact. Last week we shared our favorite Thanksgiving rolls with you, but if you are in the mood to take a non-traditional route this year....these biscuits would be a hit at the table.



Almost Famous Cheddar Biscuits

* Cooking spray
* 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3 tablespoons vegetable shortening, at room temperature
* 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
* 6 ounces grated yellow cheddar cheese (about 1 1/4 cups)
* 3/4 cup whole milk

For the garlic butter:

* 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 clove garlic, smashed
* 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions:
Position a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 425 degrees. Lightly mist a large baking sheet with cooking spray.

Make the biscuits: Pulse the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt in a food processor. You may add a little garlic powder to the dough if you like more of a garlic flavor. Add the shortening and pulse until combined. Add the butter; pulse 4 or 5 times, or until the butter is in pea-size pieces. Add the cheese and pulse 2 or 3 times. Pour in the milk and pulse just until the mixture is moistened and forms a shaggy dough. Turn out onto a clean surface and gently knead until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough or the biscuits will be tough. You may add a little garlic powder to the dough if you like more of a garlic flavor.

Drop the dough onto the baking sheet in scant 1/4-cup portions, 2 inches apart, and bake until golden, 15 to 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the garlic butter: Melt the butter with the garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat; cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the parsley. Brush the biscuits with the garlic butter and serve warm.