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Dumpling Bake: The Ultimate One-Pan Comfort Food You Need This Week

Key takeaways
  • One-pan dumpling bake delivers crispy bottoms and tender tops with minimal cleanup — perfect weeknight comfort food.
  • Highly customizable: use frozen or homemade dumplings (pork, veggie, chicken, shrimp, gluten-free) and adjust sauces.
  • Simple, savory soy-based sauce with garlic, sesame, and scallions infuses dumplings while baking for deep umami flavor.
  • Bake from frozen, use an oven-safe skillet, avoid overcrowding, and finish with fresh scallions or sesame for best results.
  • Leftovers reheat well and repurpose into soup, bowls, tacos, or brunch with a soft-boiled egg.

Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Kenza

There are some days when all I want is a dinner that feels like a warm hug, but I’m definitely not in the mood for a stack of dirty dishes. That’s where this Dumpling Bake Recipe (one-pan baked dumplings) comes to the rescue — it’s my weeknight hero. Imagine juicy dumplings nestled in a savory, garlicky broth, then baked until the bottoms are crispy and golden while the tops stay tender and pillowy. It’s the best of both worlds, and it all happens in one single pan. Yes, one.

This Dumpling Bake recipe is perfect when you’re craving something cozy but don’t want to stand over the stove flipping or steaming. It’s also ideal for casual dinners with friends or lazy Sundays when you want comfort food without the chaos. The flavor profile is rich, umami-packed, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re team veggie dumplings or can’t resist a pork and chive filling, this dish is here for it.

Before we dive into the delicious details…

Why You’re Gonna Love This Dumpling Bake

Let me tell you — the first time I made this dumpling bake, I was shocked by how simple and satisfying it was. I’d usually pan-fry or steam dumplings (sometimes both), but this method gave me everything I love in one go: crispy bottoms, tender tops, and that delicious savory sauce that clings to every bite. Here’s why it just works:

  • One-Pan Wonder: No need to dirty multiple dishes. Everything — the dumplings, sauce, aromatics — cooks together in one oven-safe pan.
  • Restaurant Texture, Homemade Ease: You get that crisp golden base like a well-done potsticker, without having to hover over the stove.
  • Customizable Fillings: Use store-bought frozen dumplings or your own — pork, veggie, chicken, shrimp, or even gluten-free. Anything goes.
  • Savory Sauce Magic: The light soy-based sauce gets infused with garlic, sesame oil, and scallions while it bakes — making each dumpling taste even better.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: Make ahead and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It reheats beautifully, too.

Want to make it fit your lifestyle? Here’s how:

  • Vegetarian Version: Use veggie dumplings (mushroom and tofu fillings are chef’s kiss) and swap in veggie broth.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free dumplings and double-check your soy sauce (tamari works great).
  • Spicy Lover’s Twist: Add a drizzle of chili crisp or sriracha to the sauce before baking.
  • Low-Sodium Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth — the umami stays, but the saltiness chills out.

This dish is basically a dumpling lover’s dream that requires no babysitting. And if you’re already a fan of cozy meals like lasagna soup or lentil soup, this one’s going to slide right into your regular dinner rotation.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

  • Dumplings can be packed with veggies and lean proteins for a balanced meal.
  • Baked instead of deep-fried = less oil, lighter feel.
  • You control the sodium and ingredients, especially when using homemade or clean-label dumplings

Dumpling Bake (One-Pan Baked Dumplings) Recipe

Recipe by Kenza
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: DinnerCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories per serving

425

kcal
Total time

40

minutes

This cozy dumpling bake recipe combines crispy-bottomed dumplings with a savory, garlicky sauce — all made in just one pan! Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings the comfort without the chaos.

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Ingredients

  • 20 frozen dumplings (any variety)

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tsp grated ginger

  • 1 tsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes (optional)

  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)

  • Chopped scallions & sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and grab an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. No need to thaw the dumplings — frozen works perfectly!
  • Whisk together the broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes. This is your flavor-packed sauce.
  • Arrange the frozen dumplings in a single layer in the skillet. Pour the sauce evenly over them — you want them mostly surrounded but not drowned.
  • Sprinkle cheese over the top if you’re using it. Slide the whole thing into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tops are golden and the sauce is bubbling.
  • If you like it extra crispy, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it!
  • Top with scallions and sesame seeds, and serve hot right from the pan. It’s rustic, cozy, and crazy good.

Notes

  • Use round or pleated-style dumplings for best texture.
  • You can double the sauce if using a deeper casserole dish.
  • No cast iron? A 9×13 baking dish works great too.
  • Add a drizzle of hoisin or sweet chili sauce for a different vibe.
  • Bake on a foil-lined tray if you’re worried about sauce bubbling over.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 425kcal
  • Fat: 22g
  • Sodium: 930mg
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
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Tips to Make This Dumpling Bake Recipe Even Better

Let’s talk about the little details that take this recipe from great to restaurant-worthy. These are the things I’ve learned from testing (and re-testing) this baby multiple times — all so you don’t have to.

  • Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet for the crispiest base. It distributes heat evenly and gives those dumpling bottoms a golden, almost caramelized crunch.
  • Don’t overfill the pan. Leave a little space between dumplings so the sauce can bubble and reduce slightly.
  • Use frozen dumplings straight from the freezer — no need to thaw! They’ll bake perfectly in the sauce and steam gently in the oven.
  • Add extra aromatics like fresh ginger slices or a sprinkle of white pepper for added depth.
  • Finish with freshness: Scallions, sesame seeds, or even a splash of rice vinegar at the end can brighten the whole dish.
  • Let it rest for a couple minutes after baking — this helps the sauce settle and allows flavors to meld.

You’re just a few small tweaks away from dumpling bake perfection. Keep reading, because next up, I’ll show you how to make this dish your own with easy, flavorful variations.

Dumpling Bake Variations You’ll Want to Try Next

Once you’ve made this once, you’ll start dreaming up all kinds of combos. Here are a few tried-and-true ideas to inspire your next round of dumpling bake magic:

Vegetarian Umami Bomb

Use spinach and mushroom dumplings with miso broth, garlic, and a splash of soy. Toss in shredded bok choy and finish with sesame seeds and scallions for a plant-based dinner that doesn’t miss a thing.

Spicy Sichuan-Inspired Bake

Start with pork or chicken dumplings and use a sauce spiked with chili oil, black vinegar, and a dash of five-spice powder. Add sliced Thai chilis for serious heat and crushed peanuts on top for crunch.

Korean Twist

Use kimchi dumplings and pour over a sauce made with gochujang, sesame oil, and scallion. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted seaweed and a drizzle of honey for balance.

Chicken & Ginger Comfort

Choose chicken dumplings, add slices of fresh ginger and garlic to the broth, and serve with sautéed greens on the side. It’s a cleaner, feel-good comfort dish.

Garlic-Lovers Edition

Add extra garlic — like, four cloves — to the sauce, and maybe even toss in a little roasted garlic paste. The baked dumplings soak it all up like tiny garlic pillows of joy.

How to Serve This Dumpling Bake Recipe Like a Pro

This dish is hearty on its own, but I love pairing it with one or two sides to round things out:

  • A light cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil for crunch and contrast.
  • Steamed or roasted baby bok choy, drizzled with oyster sauce.
  • A warm bowl of lentil soup or Amish paper bag chicken if you’re feeding a bigger group.
  • A dipping sauce bar! Think soy sauce + vinegar, chili oil, or peanut dipping sauce on the side.

Presentation-wise, serve it straight from the pan with a big spoon and lots of love. Let everyone help themselves.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Like a Champ

One of the best parts about this dumpling bake is that the leftovers are still so good. Here’s how to handle them:

  • To store: Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat: Pop it back into a skillet or oven-safe dish with a splash of broth or water. Cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  • Microwave option: Use a microwave-safe container, add a splash of water, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute bursts until hot.

Avoid microwaving too long or it’ll lose that delicious bottom crisp!

Fun Ways to Repurpose Your Dumpling Bake

Got leftovers? Let’s get creative!

  • Dumpling Noodle Soup: Cut leftover dumplings in half and toss them into hot broth with noodles, spinach, and green onions.
  • Dumpling Bowl: Reheat and serve over jasmine rice with shredded carrots, pickled veggies, and sriracha mayo.
  • Crispy Dumpling Tacos: Okay, hear me out. Slice dumplings in half, add to lettuce wraps with spicy mayo and cucumber slaw. It works.
  • Next-Day Brunch: Top reheated dumpling bake with a soft-boiled or poached egg and a drizzle of chili oil. Heaven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade dumplings for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re fully sealed so the filling doesn’t leak out as they bake.

Do I need to thaw frozen dumplings before baking?

Nope — baking from frozen actually helps them keep their shape and prevents sogginess.

What sauce works best for this dumpling bake recipe?

A soy-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil gives amazing umami flavor. You can adjust with chili, vinegar, or miso too.

How do I make dumpling bake crispy on top?

Use less sauce, bake uncovered, and finish under the broiler for that golden crisp top.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and arrange the dumplings in advance. Bake right before serving for best texture.

What kind of dumplings should I use?

Any kind you love — pork, veggie, chicken, even shrimp! Gyoza, potstickers, or mandu all work beautifully.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re looking for a low-fuss, big-comfort meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this dumpling bake (one-pan baked dumplings) is going to be your new obsession. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to serve guests. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

Loved this recipe? You might also enjoy cozy dishes like lasagna soup or sweet seasonal treats like pumpkin muffins and roasted pumpkin seeds.

If you make this, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment or tag me in your pics so we can drool over it together

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