If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole that hits every note of comfort, satisfaction, and flavor fireworks—I’m about to make that dream a reality. The first time I whipped up this savory dumpling casserole, I was smack in the middle of a cold snap, craving something bold and hearty. The moment I pulled it from the oven, that bubbling blanket of golden, cheesy baked dumplings stole the spotlight.
What blew my mind was how the dumplings soaked up every bit of cheesy baked comfort food goodness while still staying fluffy on the inside. This Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole isn’t just your average casserole; it stands as a bold flavor statement that screams Cuba Queen’s fearless flavor philosophy—no holding back on the cheese, the herbs, or the zest. Every bite feels like a party with just the right punch of gooey, savory, and homey vibes.
I’ve spent countless afternoons in my kitchen tweaking this dumpling casserole recipe, testing everything from cheese blends to baking times, to nail a game-changing flavor symphony. And trust me, this one hits harder than a regular cheese dumpling bake—because it balances texture and boldness with surprising finesse. If you love cozy, cheesy baked comfort food that plays with textures and flavors in the best way, this is your next obsession.
Before we dive into the ingredients and step-by-step magic, I’ve gotta say: if this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try the cheesy green bean casserole and the cheesy breakfast casserole I’ve whipped up too. Both are flavor explosions that bring that same bold cheese vibe but with totally different, celebration-worthy twists.
Now, buckle up because this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole will turn your kitchen into a bold flavor playground!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:

This Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Every component packs a punch that pulls together a savory dumpling casserole that’s anything but boring.
- 2 cups self-rising flour (The fluff in these cheesy baked dumplings starts right here—don’t substitute with regular flour unless you’re adding baking powder)
- 1 cup whole milk (Full fat for richer dumplings!)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (The secret to epic Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole melty goodness)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Adds that stringy, gooey magic)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (Because buttery is better)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (For savory depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Bold flavor bombs)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (Trust me, this is a game-changer for the smokiness)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (A perfect herbal counterpoint)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth (You’ll pour this over your dumplings for max comfort)
- Optional: 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (Turn it into a meaty cheese dumpling bake)
Here’s the power tip: The secret to epic Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole is using sharp cheddar cheese instead of mild cheddar. That sharpness delivers an unforgettable cheesy punch that cuts through the creamy dumpling base.
You’ll find the best sharp cheddar and mozzarella at your local cheese market or specialty grocery. Splurge on freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded—it melts creamier and gives your savory dumpling casserole a better texture.
Budget-friendly alternative? Swap whole milk with 2% and use a combo of processed cheese and shredded cheddar—it still rocks but costs less.
Pro tip for prep: Pre-shred your cheese and dice onions a day ahead. Seal them tight to keep their freshness locked. This helps your Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole come together quicker when you’re ready to bake.
If you want to see another flavor bomb casserole, check out my cheesy crack chicken casserole. It’s the kind of baked cheesy comfort food that keeps the party going.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Here’s where your Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole transforms into pure magic. Follow these confidently and your kitchen will smell like a five-star cheesiest dream.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t rush on this—getting the oven hot sets the stage for perfect dumpling rise and that golden bake.
- Mix the flour, salt, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Your dry foundation for this savory dumpling casserole is flexible—feel free to adjust the smoked paprika for more kick.
- Add milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, stirring to get a thick batter. Don’t stress—it won’t be liquidy. It should hold together like thick drop biscuit dough.
- Fold in half of your sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and diced onions. This is the cheesy baked dumpling heart of your casserole.
- If adding cooked chicken, fold it in here for a rich, meaty upgrade. Pro tip for Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole perfection: shredded chicken adds texture contrast and protein punch.
- Pour chicken broth into the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. Spread the dumpling batter over the broth carefully—do not mix. This layering is crucial because your dumplings will steam and soak in that broth flavor while baking.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top generously. I mean it—this second layer of cheesy baked comfort food is what guarantees ooey-gooey crust magic.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until dumplings are puffed, golden, and bubbling. Your Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole should look like a gooey, browned masterpiece.
- Remove and let cool for 5 minutes. This resting period keeps the cheesy baked dumplings from falling apart when you slice.
Here’s where most people mess up their Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole—if the oven is too cool or you try to stir the dumplings into the broth after baking, you lose that iconic texture contrast of fluffy meets melty crust.
While your Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole is working its magic, grab your camera—this is Instagram gold! The golden, bubbly surface plus the savory steam is photogenic realness.
Want to kick it up a notch? Check out this Creamy sausage and dumpling casserole recipe for a spicy, meat-lovers version of cheesy baked dumplings that will blow up your flavor game.
PRESENTATION:
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole at weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike. The bubbling cheese crust is an instant conversation starter.
For maximum impact, scoop warm cheesy baked dumplings straight from the baking dish onto rustic wooden plates or colorful stoneware. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of brightness. The visual contrast with the golden top and green herbs screams celebration-worthy.
Pair this savory dumpling casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. I’m also a sucker for roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots on the side—they balance the cheesy baked comfort food with freshness and texture.
This Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole absolutely slays at dinner parties where everyone’s after hearty, satisfying dishes. For more bold flavor adventures, check out my cheesy green bean casserole to keep your table full of cheesy magic.
Got leftovers? Don’t toss ’em! Transform them into cheesy baked dumpling quesadillas or crisp them up in a skillet for a next-day flavor fiesta.
Seasonal variations? Swap out your chicken broth for mushroom broth and add sautéed mushrooms for a deep umami twist that screams fall. This recipe has seen upgrades inspired by everything from Guinness stew with cheddar herb dumplings (Guinness Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings – Host The Toast) to spicy sausage crescendos.

FAQs:
Can I make this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole spicier?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the dumpling batter. A dash of hot sauce in the broth layer amps up the heat beautifully. I tested this with friends who live for spice, and it was a hit.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
Mix 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt to substitute. This swap still delivers a fluffy cheese dumpling bake that won’t disappoint.
Can I prepare this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh before serving to keep those cheesy baked dumplings puffed and perfect.
How do I know when my Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole is perfectly done?
Look for a golden, bubbly top and dumplings that’ve puffed fully with a firm, springy feel. Your nose will pick up the enchanting aroma of melted cheese and herbs right before pulling it out.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Easily! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, skip the chicken, and toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, roasted peppers, or mushrooms. Your cheesy baked comfort food stays bold and satisfying.
What cheese blend works best for this savory dumpling casserole?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classics for melt and punch. You can mix in Parmesan for a nuttier flavor or pepper jack for extra heat. Whatever cheese you choose, freshly shredded delivers the best meltiness.
What did the community say about this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole recipe?
Flavor adventurers on my Facebook cooking circles said it’s “the ultimate comfort snack” and “the cheesiest, fluffiest bundle of joy.” One commenter shared a pic of her version that looked like a cheesy masterpiece!
If you want to see more dumpling casserole vibes that wow, I saw this one casserole dish dumpling dinner on AllRecipes, and it’s rocking bold dumpling comfort too.
CONCLUSION:
This Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole embodies everything Cuba Queen stands for—a celebration-worthy, flavor-packed, unapologetically bold dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a party.
My Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole Power Tips:
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for that punchy, savory backbone.
- Layer your dumplings over broth, don’t mix them in, for perfect texture contrast.
- Let it rest after baking to lock in cheesiness and keep dumplings intact.
I’ve played with this recipe so many ways: the meaty shredded chicken version gets the biggest “WOWs,” while the vegetarian mushroom version feels like autumn in a spoon. My spicy jalapeño kick-up has loyal fans who love a little fire under that bubbly cheesy top.
You have what it takes to make this Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole your signature dish. Trust the process, love the layers, and get ready for bold flavor bombs every single time.
Now, go make magic happen in your kitchen and share your cheesy baked dumpling triumphs! I wanna see those cheesy baked comfort food masterpieces lighting up your feeds.
There you go, bold flavor adventurer! Your Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole journey starts now. Don’t forget to peek at these other savvy casseroles I swear by: cheesy breakfast casserole, cheesy crack chicken casserole, and the classic cheesy green bean casserole. Stay bold, stay cheesy, and keep those flavor fireworks popping!
Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole
This Baked Cheesy Dumpling Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender dumplings with a rich, melted cheese topping, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
- In a separate bowl, mix shredded chicken, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
- Pour chicken broth and olive oil into a greased casserole dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the broth to form dumplings.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the dumplings.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For an extra creamy casserole, add a dollop of cream cheese into the chicken mixture or serve with a fresh green salad.

