Save Cheesy Shrimp Scallion Dumplings bring together sweet shrimp, creamy cheese, and vibrant scallions tucked inside tender wrappers for a perfect bite every time. These dumplings are wonderful for sharing as appetizers at gatherings or simply turning weeknights into a little celebration. Perfect for anyone who adores Asian flavors but wants a twist on tradition, this is my go-to when I want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
The first time I made these, the kitchen filled with the heady scent of garlic and sesame and the look on my partner's face after the first bite told me this would become a regular request in our house.
Ingredients
- Raw shrimp: delivers tender juiciness when bitten into so pick fresh or well-frozen shrimp with firm texture and mild scent
- Scallions: bring a zippy freshness and color so choose crisp green stalks that are free of wilting or yellowing
- Cream cheese: is the secret to a creamy filling so use a brand with rich texture and let it soften to mix easily
- Shredded mozzarella: melts perfectly and stretches for that delightful cheesy pull so buy pre-shredded for ease or grate fresh
- Soy sauce: seasons the mix with umami depth so select a naturally brewed type for best flavor
- Toasted sesame oil: adds smokiness so look for one made from pure roasted sesame seeds
- Fresh ginger: brightens everything and helps cut richness so grate straight from a firm chunk and avoid pre-ground
- Garlic: offers savory warmth and should be freshly minced for best flavor
- Ground white pepper and salt: set the savory baseline choose white pepper for a subtle heat
- Dumpling wrappers: give every bite that tender chew use fresh round ones from an Asian market or homemade if you love a weekend project
- Neutral oil: is for pan-frying do not use a strongly flavored oil so the filling shines
- Water: helps seal wrappers and create steam you just need tap water on hand
- Dipping sauces: like soy sauce, chili oil or vinegar meet personal tastes and add an extra zing
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Combine chopped shrimp, scallions, cream cheese, mozzarella, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, white pepper and salt in a mixing bowl Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture looks creamy and cohesive
- Fill the Wrappers:
- Place one dumpling wrapper flat on a clean dry surface Spoon about one tablespoon of the shrimp mixture into the center Gently press down to create a slight mound
- Seal the Dumplings:
- Dip your finger in water and run it around the entire edge of the wrapper Fold the wrapper in half over the filling and carefully pinch or pleat the edge shut Make sure to press out any trapped air Repeat with all wrappers and filling
- Choose Your Cooking Method:
- To steam Line a steamer basket with parchment or lightly oil to prevent sticking Arrange dumplings so they do not touch Steam over simmering water for about six to eight minutes The wrappers should turn translucent and the filling will be firm and cooked through To pan fry Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high Arrange dumplings flat side down in a single layer Cook for about two minutes until the bottoms are golden brown Pour in about three tablespoons of water cover immediately and let steam for four to five minutes until wrappers are tender and water is mostly evaporated Remove lid and let bottoms crisp for an extra minute if desired
- Serve Hot:
- Arrange dumplings on a platter and serve immediately Set out small dishes of soy sauce, chili oil or vinegar for dipping
Save My favorite part is always the moment of folding dumplings with my kids on weekends The youngest loves to crimp the edges and everyone laughs over their shapes perfect or wonky Each time I use super fresh scallions from our garden the filling pops with extra green flavor and makes the batch extra special
Storage Tips
Store any leftover uncooked dumplings on a parchment lined tray and freeze Solid dumplings can be transferred to a freezer bag and kept for up to two months To cook from frozen just add a couple extra minutes to steaming or pan-frying For cooked leftovers refrigerate in an airtight container and reheat by steaming for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chopped crab or white fish instead of shrimp if desired Swap mozzarella with cheddar for a different sharpness For gluten-free make sure both wrappers and soy sauce or tamari are certified gluten free Vegetarians can try pressed tofu and spinach for a different filling style
Serving Suggestions
Serve dumplings as an appetizer with little bowls of chili crisp soy sauce and black vinegar For a full meal offer alongside lightly seasoned rice pickled cucumbers and miso soup These dumplings also shine as party food with a creative dipping sauce bar
Cultural or Historical Context
Dumplings like these are an iconic part of festive gatherings in Chinese homes all over the world The addition of cheese nods to Western influence in Asian cuisine giving a playful twist that surprises and delights everyone at the table Your homemade version blends traditions in a delicious new way
Seasonal Adaptations
Add finely chopped summer herbs like cilantro for brightness in warmer months Try using roasted garlic in place of fresh for a deeper cold weather flavor Pair with seasonal vegetables simply steamed or sautéed for balance
Success Stories
These cheesy shrimp scallion dumplings have become the star of my annual Lunar New Year get together Guests always dive in for seconds and even non seafood lovers find themselves reaching for more A neighbor once declared these are restaurant worthy and asked for a cooking lesson on the spot
Freezer Meal Conversion
Freeze uncooked dumplings in a single layer until solid then pack into airtight bags Label with the date so you can quickly prepare a show-stopping snack or appetizer at a moments notice Dumplings can go straight from freezer to steamer or skillet ideal for busy days
Save A plate of these dumplings always brings smiles and happy chatter to any dinner Make a double batch and freeze some for quick weeknight treats
Recipe Guide
- → What cheese works best for these dumplings?
Cream cheese and mozzarella provide a creamy, melty texture, but cheddar or gouda offer a deeper flavor.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and pat dry frozen shrimp before chopping to maintain full flavor and texture in the filling.
- → How do I prevent dumplings from sticking during steaming?
Use parchment paper or lightly oil your steamer basket, and avoid overcrowding for easy removal of each dumpling.
- → Are these dumplings suitable for pan-frying?
Absolutely. Pan-fry for a crisp bottom and then steam briefly to ensure the filling cooks through and wrappers soften.
- → Which dipping sauces go well with these dumplings?
Soy sauce, chili oil, and vinegar blend beautifully with the savory and creamy notes of the shrimp and cheese filling.
- → How can I make these gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free dumpling wrappers and substitute tamari for soy sauce to adapt this dish for gluten-free diets.