Save These cheesy shrimp scallion dumplings bring melt-in-your-mouth juiciness and an irresistible blend of Asian and comfort food flavors to your table. With plump shrimp, tangy cheese, and bursts of scallion all wrapped up and steamed or pan-fried to perfection, they are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings or a special weeknight treat.
I first came up with these dumplings for a family potluck and there was not a single one left by the end of the night. The cheesy filling made them totally unique and now they are requested at every celebration.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: fresh and finely chopped for juicy texture choose wild-caught shrimp if possible for cleaner flavor
- Scallions: sliced to add bright color and freshness look for firm green stalks with no wilt
- Cream cheese: softened for a creamy rich filling choose full-fat for best texture
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: contributes stretchiness and mild cheesy flavor pick a block to shred yourself for fresher results
- Soy sauce: brings savory depth use a naturally brewed version for best quality
- Toasted sesame oil: adds nutty toasted notes seek out 100 percent pure toasted varieties
- Freshly grated ginger: bright spicy warmth always grate fresh ginger for the sharpest flavor
- Garlic clove: minced for savory backbone a small clove packs plenty of punch
- Ground white pepper: subtle heat without overpowering aroma opt for pre-ground white pepper for convenience
- Salt: balances flavors use a fine salt so it blends in well
- Dumpling wrappers: tender chewy envelope for the filling find them at Asian markets or in supermarket refrigerated sections
- Neutral oil: for optional pan-frying stick to oils like grapeseed or canola for high heat
- Water: needed to seal dumplings and steam or fry use cold water for sealing wrappers
- Soy sauce, chili oil or vinegar: for dipping choose your favorite combination for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Finely chop the shrimp until almost paste-like then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced scallions cream cheese shredded mozzarella soy sauce sesame oil grated ginger minced garlic white pepper and salt. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix everything together thoroughly. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly sticky which means the cheese is binding everything. Chilling for ten minutes will help it handle easier
- Assemble the Dumplings:
- Lay out a dumpling wrapper on a clean work surface. Scoop about one tablespoon of filling into the center taking care not to overfill. Dip your finger in water and run it gently along the entire edge of the wrapper to help seal
- Seal and Shape:
- Fold the wrapper in half over the filling to make a half-moon. With your thumbs and forefingers pinch or pleat the edges superbly tightly so no air pockets remain. Be patient to ensure a firm seal since cheese can try to escape while cooking. Place each finished dumpling seam-side up on a sheet pan covered with a tea towel while you work through the batch
- Choose Cooking Method:
- For steaming set up a steamer over simmering water and line the basket with parchment or brush with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange dumplings in a single layer so they do not touch. Steam for six to eight minutes allowing wrappers to turn translucent and shrimp to cook through. For pan-frying add a thin layer of neutral oil to a nonstick skillet and heat over medium-high. Arrange dumplings flat side down and cook two minutes until deeply golden on the bottom. Carefully add three tablespoons water cover with a tight lid and steam for four to five minutes until all water evaporates and the filling is cooked
- Serve Hot:
- Carefully lift dumplings out using a spatula or tongs. Arrange on a plate and serve at once with a dipping sauce of your choice soy sauce chili oil or vinegar are all delicious
Save Shrimp is my favorite ingredient in this dish because it cooks up sweet and tender inside the dumpling and pairs so well with the creamy cheese. We once made a double batch for Lunar New Year and everyone was elbow-to-elbow wrapping dumplings at the kitchen table.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat simply steam again for a few minutes or give them a quick toss in a hot pan to revive the crispy edges. For longer storage uncooked dumplings can be frozen in a single layer then bagged up and cooked straight from frozen just add two minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of mozzarella try shredded cheddar gouda or even Monterey Jack for a fun twist. Cream cheese can be swapped for ricotta or mascarpone in a pinch. For a brinier flavor add a pinch of chopped chives or cilantro. Gluten free wrappers and tamari make this recipe accessible for gluten free guests.
Serving Suggestions
These dumplings are perfect served hot alongside a simple vinegar soy dipping sauce or a drizzle of chili oil for heat lovers. For a heartier meal serve them over a bed of steamed greens or a noodle salad. Pair with a cold glass of white wine or a crisp lager to complement the rich filling.
Cultural Context
Dumplings hold a special place in many Asian traditions often enjoyed at gatherings or holidays to symbolize unity and prosperity. This cheesy fusion filling brings a playful twist on the classic making the dish both nostalgic and entirely new.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring add a handful of chopped asparagus or snap peas to the filling for extra green crunch. Summer serve with a chilled cucumber salad and spicy chili crisp to balance the richness. Winter opt for a heartier pan-fried version and serve with hot broth for dipping.
Save No matter if you are making these for a party or just a cozy night in these cheesy shrimp scallion dumplings are bound to become a household favorite. Once you see the cheese stretch when you take a bite you will be hooked.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of cheese works best in these dumplings?
Cream cheese offers creaminess while mozzarella provides melt and stretch. Try cheddar or gouda for bolder flavors.
- → Can the dumplings be prepared ahead of time?
Assemble dumplings in advance and refrigerate on a tray. Steam or pan-fry when ready to serve for freshness.
- → How do I achieve a crispy base when pan-frying?
Fry dumplings flat-side down in oil, then add water and cover. This creates a golden bottom and steam-cooks the filling.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
Use gluten-free dumpling wrappers and tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free variation.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these dumplings?
Soy sauce, chili oil, and vinegar are classic choices, or mix your own dipping sauce for added zing.
- → Can I substitute the shrimp?
Yes, try chopped cooked chicken or tofu for alternatives, adjusting seasonings as needed for balance.