Dumpling lasagna is what happens when pillowy dumplings meet rich Italian comfort food in one bubbling, cheesy baking dish. Imagine the aroma of slow-simmered tomato sauce, creamy ricotta melting into layers, and tender dumpling dough soaking up every savory bite. This easy dinner recipe has quickly become a favorite for busy families who crave cozy flavors without the hassle of boiling traditional noodles. At recipeslaides, we love reinventing classics—and this cheesy baked casserole delivers all the comfort of homemade lasagna with a soft, hearty twist.
This dumpling lasagna layers fluffy dumplings, hearty meat sauce, and creamy cheese into one irresistible baked casserole—perfect if you’re looking for a comforting dumpling lasagna recipe for busy weeknights.
Updated February 2026: This recipe now includes clearer layering steps, better baking timing, and extra texture tips for perfect dumpling lasagna every time.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is Dumpling Lasagna?
Dumpling lasagna is a creative twist on traditional lasagna where soft dumpling dough replaces classic pasta sheets. Instead of layering flat noodles, spoonfuls of dumpling batter or biscuit-style dough are layered between meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, creating a tender, baked comfort food dish.
Unlike traditional lasagna, this version delivers a lighter, fluffier texture while still offering bold Italian-inspired flavors.
Why You’ll Love It
This dumpling lasagna recipe transforms a classic into something surprisingly simple and family-friendly. It combines comfort food flavor with weeknight convenience.
- Quick to make
- Healthy flavor
- Flexible ingredients
- Meal-prep friendly
- Kid-friendly
- Budget-friendly
Reader Questions You May Have
- Can I use frozen dumplings for dumpling lasagna?
- Is dumpling lasagna easier than traditional lasagna?
- How do I keep dumplings fluffy when baked?
- Can I make dumpling lasagna ahead of time?
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dumpling batter)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional garnish)
Quick Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and prepare.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cook the filling.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
Micro-tip: Let the sauce thicken slightly so dumplings don’t get soggy.
3. Layer the base.
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the dish.
4. Add dumplings.
Flatten biscuit pieces slightly and place them evenly over the sauce.
5. Add cheese.
Spoon ricotta in small dollops. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Repeat layers.
Continue layering sauce, dumplings, and cheese.
Core cooking moment:
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Quick-fix:
If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
Final step before serving:
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing so layers set beautifully.
For another cozy baked dish, try our Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pies.
Variations & Serving Ideas
Healthy Twist
Swap ground beef for lean turkey or sautéed vegetables. Add spinach for extra nutrients—similar to flavors in our Spinach Chicken Alfredo Delight.
Budget-Friendly Version
Use pantry marinara and store-brand biscuit dough. Beans can stretch the filling—see ideas in Best Types of Beans.
Kid-Friendly Option
Use mild sausage and extra mozzarella. Smaller dumpling pieces bake more evenly and are easier for little hands.
High-Protein Upgrade
Mix cottage cheese with ricotta and add extra lean meat for a protein-packed meal-prep dinner.
Tips
- Don’t overcrowd dumplings—space allows proper rising.
- Simmer sauce before layering for better structure.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melt.
According to nutritional guidance from the USDA (https://www.usda.gov), balancing protein and portion size helps keep comfort meals satisfying yet mindful.
Healthline (https://www.healthline.com) notes that combining protein and fiber increases satiety—consider adding vegetables to your sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumpling lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating tip:
Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through to maintain texture.
Mini Q&A:
Can you freeze dumpling lasagna for meal prep?
Yes—wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make dumpling lasagna ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble fully, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time.
2. What kind of dumplings work best?
Refrigerated biscuit dough or homemade drop dumplings both work well.
3. Is dumpling lasagna the same as traditional lasagna?
No. It replaces pasta sheets with dumplings for a softer texture.
4. Why are my dumplings dense?
Overmixing dough or overcrowding layers can prevent proper rising.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or vegetables.
6. What side dishes pair well?
A crisp salad or garlic bread balances the richness. For dessert, try Cookies and Cream Cookies.
Nutrition
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
Dumpling Lasagna
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 9×13 inch baking dish
- 1 Mixing spoon or spatula
- 1 Aluminum foil
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb – Ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small – Onion diced
- 3 cloves – Garlic minced
- 2 cups – Marinara sauce
- 1 tsp – Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp – Salt
- ¼ tsp – Black pepper
- Cheese Layer
- 1 cup – Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups – Shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup – Grated Parmesan cheese
- Dumpling Layer
- 1 can 16 oz – Refrigerated biscuit dough
- or 2 cups homemade dumpling batter
- Optional Garnish
- 2 tbsp – Fresh basil chopped
Instructions
Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3
- Add minced garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 5
- Flatten biscuit dough pieces slightly and arrange them evenly over the sauce.
Step 6
- Spoon ricotta in small dollops over the dumplings, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 7
- Repeat layering sauce, dumplings, and cheese until ingredients are used.
Step 8
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 9
- Let the dumpling lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Final Notes
Dumpling lasagna is comfort food reimagined—soft, cheesy, hearty, and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this baked casserole delivers warmth in every bite.
More recipeslaides Recipes You’ll Love
- Explore more ideas on our Recipes Blog
- Craving something sweet and seasonal? Try these Peach Recipes – Juicy, Easy, and Irresistible