There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal that comes together in a single dish. When I first tried this Viral One Pan Dumpling Bake, it was love at first bite. Imagine the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger filling your kitchen as frozen dumplings simmer in a rich, creamy red curry broth. This dish has quickly become my go-to for those busy weeknights when I crave something delicious without the hassle of extensive preparation or cleanup.
Using just a handful of ingredients, this easy dump-and-bake recipe allows the dumplings to cook directly in the broth, soaking up all that flavor while becoming blissfully juicy. Whether you’re prepping dinner for your family or entertaining friends, this meal promises to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready for cozy vibes and a satisfying outcome that everyone will adore—let’s dive into making this delightful Dumpling Bake!
Why is this Dumpling Bake so special?
Comfort Food Redefined: This Dumpling Bake elevates your weeknight meals with its robust, creamy flavor.
Effortless Cooking: Just dump, bake, and enjoy! Minimal prep means more time with loved ones.
One-Pan Wonder: One dish means less cleanup, making it perfect for any busy cook.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe with any vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Friends and family will rave about this dish, whether they’re fans of Asian cuisine or not!
Get ready for a comforting meal that combines simplicity and heartiness in every bite!
Dumpling Bake Ingredients
• Everything you need for a delightful meal!
For the Broth
- Coconut Milk – Provides creaminess; use full-fat for a richer flavor.
- Red Curry Paste – Adds spice and depth; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances the savory profile; low sodium recommended to control saltiness.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the dish’s richness.
- Honey or Sugar – Offers a touch of sweetness to round out flavors.
- Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty aroma; optional for a lighter version.
- Garlic – Freshly grated for intensity; adds pungent flavor.
- Ginger – Fresh ginger enhances depth; it gives warmth and spice.
For the Dumplings and Vegetables
- Dumplings (16-20) – Use frozen veggie or meat dumplings; they cook directly in the broth.
- Bok Choy – Offers a fresh crunch; substitute with other greens if unavailable.
- Zucchini – Adds texture; can be replaced with bell peppers or carrots.
For Garnishing
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Sliced Green Onions – Bring a fresh taste; perfect for garnishing.
- Cilantro – Enhances flavor and adds brightness; optional but recommended.
This Dumpling Bake is not only a culinary treat but also a breeze to prepare!
How to Make Dumpling Bake
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Mix Broth: In a 12 x 8 inch baking dish, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Whisk together until smooth, then grate in the garlic and ginger for that aromatic kick.
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Prep Vegetables: Chop the bok choy finely and slice the zucchini; fold these fresh veggies into the luscious broth mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
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Layer Dumplings: Gently arrange frozen dumplings in a single layer atop the broth. Slightly press them into the mixture while leaving the tops exposed. Spoon extra broth over each dumpling for maximum flavor.
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Bake Covered: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
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Crisp Dumplings: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and the dumplings are just crisped on top.
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Serve: Trope the dish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy the Dumpling Bake over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal experience!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of lime juice for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Dumpling Bake
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Room Temperature: The Dumpling Bake should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven for optimal texture.
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Freezer: If you want to freeze the Dumpling Bake, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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Reheating: For the best results, reheat the Dumpling Bake in the oven to retain its crispy texture, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
What to Serve with Dumpling Bake?
There’s nothing like a hearty, comforting meal that brings friends and family together for a delightful dining experience.
- Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy and fragrant, it soaks up the creamy broth, enhancing every delicious spoonful.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy, fresh counterpart, this slaw adds a burst of texture and bright flavors to balance the richness.
- Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and flaky, these pancakes are wonderful for dipping into the luscious curry broth, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy and savory, these little pods complement the dumplings while providing a protein-packed side.
- Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet treat offers a delightful contrast, with creamy coconut flavors and juicy mango that play beautifully against the savory dish.
- Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the meal while adding a boost of vitamins.
- Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and lightly flavored, this drink provides a perfect palate cleanser while enjoying the comforting flavors of the dumpling bake.
Make Ahead Options
This Dumpling Bake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to simplify your weeknight dinners! You can prepare the broth mixture (coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil) and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep everything fresh and prevent browning. The following day, simply layer the frozen dumplings into the prepared broth and bake as directed. For best results, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil while baking to ensure the dumplings cook perfectly and remain juicy. Enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that comes together in no time!
Dumpling Bake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this Dumpling Bake your own with these delightful twists!
- Greens Swap: Substitute bok choy with spinach or kale for a different flavor profile. Each green brings its unique taste and nutrients you’ll love.
- Curry Paste Alteration: Try yellow or green curry paste instead of red for a milder, yet equally flavorful experience. You can play with the spice level to match your palate.
- Protein Boost: Add cubed tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a heartier dish packed with protein. It’s a great way to customize it to your family’s liking!
- Flavor Add: Mix in a splash of lime juice or some chopped red chili for an extra zing and a kick of heat. It’s like fireworks for your taste buds!
- Texture Twist: Replace zucchini with bell peppers or carrots for a crunchy surprise. Each veggie brings a different texture while adding colorful cheer to your bake.
- Noodle Addition: Toss in some pre-cooked noodles into the broth before baking for a more filling, noodle-inspired twist. Perfect for those who love a hearty meal!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener that still complements the dish beautifully. This way, everyone can enjoy it!
- Crispy Topping: Add a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs before the final baking stage for a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft dumplings. A wonderfully satisfying layer!
Unlock endless possibilities with these variations and enjoy an evolving love affair with this cozy Dumpling Bake recipe!
Expert Tips for the Best Dumpling Bake
- Dumpling Arrangement: Make sure the dumplings are spaced out properly in the dish. Overcrowding may prevent them from crisping up nicely.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: If you’re using fresh dumplings, remember to reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes. This will prevent overcooking and keep them tender.
- Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to experiment with the curry paste amount; start with a smaller quantity and add to your taste, especially if you’re sensitive to spice.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to switch in any greens you have on hand—spinach, kale, or even bell peppers can work beautifully in this Dumpling Bake.
- Broth Thickness: For a thicker broth, use less coconut milk or let it reduce in the oven a bit longer without the foil. Enjoy the depth of flavors!
Viral One Pan Dumpling Bake Recipe FAQs
What type of dumplings should I use?
Absolutely! For this Dumpling Bake, I recommend using frozen dumplings, whether they are veggie or meat. They are convenient and don’t require any extra prep work—it’s all about ease! Just ensure that they are of good quality so they cook evenly.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Very! You can store leftover Dumpling Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven for the best texture—around 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick!
Can I freeze the Dumpling Bake for later?
Definitely! To freeze your Dumpling Bake, let it cool completely and then portion it into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated throughout, about 25-30 minutes.
What if my dumplings don’t crisp up?
I often get this question! To avoid this, make sure the dumplings have enough space between them when you arrange them in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. If using fresh dumplings, reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes.
Is this recipe safe for my dog/cat?
Great question! This Dumpling Bake includes ingredients like garlic and onion, which are not safe for pets. Keep this dish strictly for human enjoyment. If you want a pet-friendly option, consider making plain boiled dumplings without seasoning!
How do I know if my curry paste is fresh enough?
Freshness matters! Check the expiry date on the package first. If the color seems dull or if you notice an off smell, it may have lost its potency. For the best flavor experience, I recommend always using fresh curry paste when possible!
Easy One Pan Dumpling Bake in Creamy Red Curry Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 12 x 8 inch baking dish, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Whisk together until smooth, then grate in the garlic and ginger.
- Chop the bok choy finely and slice the zucchini; fold these fresh veggies into the broth mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- Gently arrange frozen dumplings in a single layer atop the broth, slightly pressing them into the mixture while leaving the tops exposed. Spoon extra broth over each dumpling.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until bubbly and the dumplings are just crisped on top.
- Top the dish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve over jasmine rice or noodles.