Dumpling lasagna swaps traditional noodles for frozen dumplings, layering them with marinara, a ricotta mixture, and mozzarella just like a classic lasagna. It takes about an hour, uses dumplings straight from the freezer with no thawing required, and has gone viral for the clever fusion twist.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Category: Main dish
Why You’ll Love This Dumpling Lasagna
- Uses frozen dumplings straight from the freezer, so there’s no thawing or extra prep.
- A clever fusion twist on a classic comfort food everyone already loves.
- One baking dish, minimal hands-on time.
- Easy to customize with different dumpling fillings or sauces.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 30 to 36 frozen dumplings or potstickers
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
How to Make Dumpling Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta with the egg, a pinch of salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Arrange a layer of frozen dumplings over the sauce — no need to thaw.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the dumplings, then a layer of marinara, then a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is full, ending with marinara, mozzarella, and parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve.
Tips for the Best Dumpling Lasagna
- Use frozen dumplings straight from the freezer — they cook through fully in the oven.
- Press each layer down gently to help everything meld together.
- Let the lasagna rest before slicing for cleaner pieces.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking to help the dumplings cook through evenly.
Variations to Try
- Use vegetable dumplings for a vegetarian version.
- Add cooked ground sausage between layers for extra heartiness.
- Swap marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
How to Store It
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to thaw the dumplings first?
No, frozen dumplings can go straight into the dish and will cook through in the oven.
Can I use fresh dumplings instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh or frozen both work — fresh may need slightly less baking time.
What type of dumplings work best?
Pork or vegetable potstickers hold up well; avoid delicate wonton-style dumplings, which can fall apart.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble it unbaked and refrigerate, then bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.