Creamy Cheesy Dumpling Casserole 🧀🥟
A rich, comforting baked casserole with fluffy dumplings in a creamy cheese sauce—perfect for a cozy dinner.
Servings
6
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35–40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Cheese
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (for stretch)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for depth)
Dumplings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (melted)
- ½ cup milk
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or mushrooms
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes), then add garlic.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute (forms a roux).
- Slowly whisk in milk and broth until smooth.
- Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, and stir in cheddar + mozzarella until melted.
2. Add Fillings
- Mix in cooked chicken, mushrooms, or vegetables if using.
3. Make Dumplings
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add melted butter and milk.
- Stir just until a soft dough forms (don’t overmix).
4. Assemble
- Pour the creamy cheese mixture into a baking dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough evenly over the top.
5. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until dumplings are fluffy and golden on top.
6. Finish & Serve
- Sprinkle Parmesan and fresh parsley on top.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream to the sauce.
- Don’t overmix dumpling dough or they become dense.
- You can swap cheddar for gouda, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
Result
Soft, pillowy dumplings sitting in a thick, creamy cheese sauce with golden edges and deep savory flavor—basically comfort food in a baking dish. 🧀✨