Dumpling Lasagna Recipe

Dumpling lasagna is a delicious fusion of Italian and Asian comfort foods. It swaps traditional lasagna noodles for dumpling or wonton wrappers and layers them with a savory, dumpling-style filling. The result is a lighter, silkier dish packed with rich, umami flavor—a perfect blend of global tastes that’s simple, creative, and sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Layers

• 24 round dumpling wrappers (or square wonton wrappers)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• A small bowl of water (for softening wrappers if needed)

For the Filling

• 500 g ground pork or chicken
• 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and nutmeg to taste

For Topping

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

The filling is the heart of dumpling lasagna, providing the savory depth that defines the dish.

1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
4. Stir in chopped cabbage, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and green onions.
5. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly dry.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool.

This filling can be customized with mushrooms, tofu, or shrimp for different flavor profiles.

2. Make the Sauce

A creamy béchamel sauce ties the layers together, balancing the savory filling with smooth richness.

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
4. Stir in mozzarella and parmesan until melted.
5. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.

For a lighter version, substitute part of the milk with chicken broth or use plant-based milk alternatives.

3. Assemble the Dumpling Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with oil or butter.
3. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.
4. Arrange dumpling wrappers to cover the base, slightly overlapping.
5. Add a layer of filling, then a layer of sauce.
6. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce on top.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the final layer.

The layering process mirrors traditional lasagna, but the thinner wrappers create a more delicate texture that absorbs the sauce beautifully.

4. Bake

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
3. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Resting allows the layers to set, ensuring clean slices and a cohesive texture.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top before serving. Dumpling lasagna pairs wonderfully with chili oil, soy dipping sauce, or a crisp green salad. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors makes it a standout dish for any occasion.

Tips for Perfect Dumpling Lasagna

1. Use fresh wrappers: Fresh dumpling or wonton wrappers yield the best texture. If using frozen ones, thaw completely and cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
2. Avoid excess moisture: Ensure the filling is not too wet, as this can make the lasagna soggy.
3. Experiment with sauces: Try a miso cream sauce, spicy Szechuan sauce, or tomato-based sauce for different flavor profiles.
4. Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bok choy for added nutrition and color.
5. Cheese alternatives: For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream or plant-based cheese.
6. Make ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
7. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 15–20 minutes to maintain texture.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Korean Dumpling Lasagna

Replace the filling’s seasoning with gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add chopped kimchi for a tangy, spicy kick. Top with mozzarella and sesame seeds before baking.

Vegetarian Dumpling Lasagna

Use a mixture of tofu, mushrooms, and spinach instead of meat. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. A light miso cream sauce complements the earthy flavors perfectly.

Seafood Dumpling Lasagna

Combine shrimp, crab meat, and scallions for a luxurious twist. Use a garlic butter or white wine cream sauce to enhance the seafood’s natural sweetness.

Italian-Asian Fusion

Blend traditional lasagna flavors with Asian elements by using marinara sauce infused with soy sauce and ginger. Add ricotta cheese between layers for a creamy contrast.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers or rice paper sheets. Substitute flour in the sauce with cornstarch or rice flour for a smooth, gluten-free béchamel.

Nutritional Insights

Dumpling lasagna can be surprisingly balanced when prepared thoughtfully. A serving typically provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Using lean meats like chicken or turkey reduces saturated fat, while adding vegetables increases fiber and vitamins. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat milk and cheese or plant-based alternatives.

The dish’s adaptability makes it suitable for various dietary preferences. It can easily be made vegetarian, pescatarian, or gluten-free without compromising flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

Dumpling lasagna pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:

• Asian-style slaw: A crisp salad with sesame dressing adds freshness and crunch.
• Garlic bread or scallion pancakes: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, bok choy, or snow peas balance the richness.
• Beverages: Green tea, light white wine, or sparkling water with lemon complement the flavors.

For presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins or bake in a large dish for family-style dining. Garnish with microgreens or a drizzle of chili oil for a restaurant-quality finish.

Storage and Reheating

Allow the lasagna to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It can be stored for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and reheat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Dumpling lasagna is a fun twist on classic comfort food. It combines the cozy layers of lasagna with the soft, flavorful goodness of dumplings to create a unique and delicious dish. Every bite is creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced.

Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, dumpling lasagna is easy to customize with different fillings and flavors—from spicy styles to seafood versions. More than just a recipe, it shows how food can bring traditions together in creative and tasty ways.