Name: Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 & 1/2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 14 ounce can of light coconut milk; 2 cups chicken stock; 3 cups shredded Napa cabbage; 2 packets dry ramen noodles (split at the seam, flavor packet discarded); 16 frozen dumplings (no need to thaw); 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro or parsley; 2 scallions, diced; 2 teaspoons chili crisp; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 67 reviews

If you have a love for exciting flavors and comforting meals, the Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish. This vibrant casserole combines the rich, aromatic taste of Thai red curry with the satisfying texture of tender dumplings and crisp Napa cabbage. It’s a unique fusion that manages to feel both exotic and homely at once, perfect for those evenings when you want something easy to prepare but packed with layers of bold flavor. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will be a favorite you’ll look forward to making again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light gray rectangular baking dish with two handles holds twenty dumplings arranged in neat rows on top of a creamy light orange sauce with finely chopped green cabbage pieces scattered throughout. The dumplings have pale, smooth wrappers with crimped edges and slight folds visible, floating gently in the sauce. The background is a white marbled surface with a soft, warm light enhancing the pastel colors in the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to nailing the perfect Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe. Each item plays a special role, from the bright zing of ginger to the creamy richness of coconut milk, building a complex yet harmonious flavor profile.

Thai red curry paste: Adds a vibrant, spicy base with authentic Thai heat and depth.
Minced ginger: Provides a fresh, warming zing that brightens the entire dish.
Minced garlic: Enhances the savory notes and blends beautifully with the curry flavors.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Brings subtle saltiness and umami without overpowering the other ingredients.
Rice vinegar: Balances richness with a mild tang.
Sesame oil: Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
Light coconut milk: Adds luscious creaminess and tropical sweetness.
Chicken stock: Provides savory depth and a smooth broth base.
Shredded Napa cabbage: Delivers fresh crunch and a mild sweetness that contrasts the spicy sauce.
Dry ramen noodles: Absorb the flavorful liquid while giving a pleasing chewiness.
Frozen dumplings: These are the star protein, offering tender pockets of delicious filling.
Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley: Used as a bright, herbal garnish.
Diced scallions: For a crisp, refreshing crunch as a finishing touch.
Chili crisp: Adds a wonderful spicy kick and textural contrast on top.
Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle for nutty flavor and extra visual appeal.

How to Make Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature to cook the casserole evenly and thoroughly, especially for warming those frozen dumplings straight from the freezer.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a spacious 9×13-inch casserole dish, whisk together the Thai red curry paste, minced ginger, minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, light coconut milk, and chicken stock. This mix creates a beautifully balanced, creamy sauce packed with layers of flavor that will soak into every component of your casserole.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Noodles

Sprinkle the shredded Napa cabbage evenly over the sauce, adding a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness. Next, layer in the dry ramen noodles, making sure to split them at the seam so they spread evenly and sit fully submerged in the flavorful liquid. This will let the noodles cook perfectly while absorbing all those delicious Thai-inspired flavors.

Step 4: Top with Dumplings

Arrange the frozen dumplings in an even layer on top of the noodles and cabbage. There’s no need to thaw them first — they’ll cook right in the casserole, absorbing moisture from the sauce and emerging tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to keep all the steam in, then bake for 30 minutes. This step allows the noodles to soften, the cabbage to meld into the sauce, and the dumplings to cook through perfectly, making every bite cohesive and satisfying.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and diced scallions over the casserole for a burst of freshness. Drizzle with chili crisp for a spicy, crunchy punch and finish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve the noodles and dumplings alongside the luscious pan sauce for a meal that’s comforting, exciting, and uniquely delicious.

How to Serve Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe

A white rectangular dish filled with two main layers: at the bottom, there is a reddish-orange broth with visible oil spots, coating the second layer of light beige dumplings and curly light brown noodles mixed together. The dumplings are folded with soft texture and slightly translucent edges. On top, scattered chopped green onions and green cilantro leaves add small pops of green color. Two black metal spoons are placed inside the dish on the right side, partially covering the noodles and dumplings. The dish sits on a thick woven mat surrounded by dark green herb bowls, a small blue bowl of sesame seeds, dark bowl of dark sauce, and some scattered fresh herbs, all over a white marbled surface. A blue cloth is casually placed around the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes bring a fresh lift and exciting textures to this rich casserole. Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a herbal brightness, while diced scallions offer a crisp snap. The chili crisp drizzle introduces a fiery crunch, and toasted sesame seeds provide a subtle nuttiness that rounds out every bite.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but if you want company at the plate, consider light, refreshing sides like a cucumber salad or simple steamed greens. Their crispness will balance the comforting warmth of the casserole without competing with its complex flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe as an impressive, family-style centerpiece in the casserole dish or portion it into individual bowls for an inviting, cozy experience. Elevate presentation by garnishing each serving with extra chili crisp, fresh herbs, and a wedge of lime for an optional tangy squeeze that brightens every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this flavorful casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making the next meal just as delicious — if not better!

Freezing

You can freeze the Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to two months. Be mindful that the texture of the noodles may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor will remain delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave single servings, stirring occasionally, until piping hot. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating helps keep the noodles moist and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh dumplings instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh dumplings can be used, but reduce the baking time slightly since they don’t require as long to cook through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and choose vegetarian dumplings to create a delicious meat-free version without compromising on flavor.

Can I use different noodles instead of ramen?

While ramen noodles are ideal for soaking up the sauce perfectly, you can substitute with other quick-cooking noodles like rice noodles or egg noodles, adjusting cooking time as needed.

How spicy is the Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe?

The spiciness depends on your Thai red curry paste and the chili crisp garnish. You can adjust the curry paste amount or omit the chili crisp to tailor the heat level to your preference.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the dumplings fresh if possible to ensure they cook perfectly during baking.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Dumpling Casserole Recipe is a fantastic way to bring vibrant Thai flavors into a cozy, comforting meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, it hits all the right notes with spicy, creamy, and fresh elements dancing on your palate. Give it a try soon — I promise it’ll become one of your favorites too!