Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings Recipe
Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are the ultimate fusion comfort food—golden, crispy-bottomed parcels with a creamy, savory squash filling, all drenched in a zingy, spicy chili crisp sauce. Each bite balances velvety sweetness from the roasted squash with a punch of umami and gentle heat, making them just as welcome as a party appetizer or a cozy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a dumpling enthusiast or just looking for a new way to love butternut squash, this dish will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings is in how a handful of everyday ingredients transform into something unforgettable. Each item here brings its own magic—think creamy cheeses, aromatic spices, and that signature chili crunch.
- Butternut squash (2 cups, peeled, cubed, and roasted): Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and gives the dumpling filling a luscious, silky texture.
- Ricotta cheese (½ cup): Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling so it stays tender inside the dumpling.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (¼ cup): Lends a nutty, salty depth that pairs beautifully with the squash.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for balancing the sweetness of the squash and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): For a subtle kick and aromatic warmth.
- Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): A classic companion to squash, it adds a gentle, cozy spice.
- Round dumpling or wonton wrappers (1 package): The perfect thin, chewy casing for your filling; look for them in the refrigerated section.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For roasting the squash and crisping up those dumpling bottoms.
- Chili crisp (3 tablespoons, adjust to taste): The star of the sauce, bringing spicy, garlicky crunch and addictive flavor.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Provides salty, savory depth to the dipping sauce.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, tangy lift that cuts through the richness.
- Green onions, thinly sliced (2): For fresh, aromatic garnish and a pop of color.
- Toasted sesame seeds (2 tablespoons): Nutty crunch that makes every bite more interesting.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds herby brightness and a beautiful finish.
How to Make Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 25 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and caramelized at the edges. This step unlocks all the sweet, earthy flavor you want in your Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Scoop the roasted squash into a large bowl and mash it well. Stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until everything is well combined and creamy. This is the heart of your dumpling, so taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
Step 3: Fill and Shape the Dumplings
Lay out your dumpling or wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Using a finger dipped in water, moisten the edges of the wrapper, then fold it into a half-moon and press firmly to seal. Make sure there are no air pockets, and pinch the edges for that classic dumpling look.
Step 4: Pan-Fry and Steam
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Allow them to cook for about 2 minutes, or until the bottoms turn golden and crispy. Carefully pour in ¼ cup water, cover the skillet, and let the dumplings steam for 4 to 5 minutes, until the wrappers are tender and translucent.
Step 5: Make the Chili Crisp Sauce
While the dumplings steam, whisk together the chili crisp, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This bold, tangy, spicy sauce is what makes these Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings truly addictive, so feel free to adjust the chili crisp to suit your heat preference.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Arrange the cooked dumplings on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the chili crisp sauce, and shower them with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. The contrast of hot, savory dumplings with cold, crisp garnishes is simply irresistible!
How to Serve Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings
Garnishes
To make your Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings extra special, never skip the finishing touches. Sprinkle over plenty of green onions for a fresh bite, toasted sesame seeds for crunch, and a generous handful of cilantro if you love its bright flavor. For extra wow factor, a few more spoonfuls of chili crisp right before serving will make them shine.
Side Dishes
These dumplings pair beautifully with a simple side of steamed bok choy, a crisp Asian slaw, or even a bowl of jasmine rice to soak up the extra sauce. If you want to go all out, serve them alongside a warming miso soup or a platter of quick-pickled vegetables for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings in individual spoons or on a bed of microgreens for a modern twist. Stack them on a platter with dipping sauce in the center, or arrange them in a bamboo steamer for an authentic feel. You can even skewer them and grill briefly for a fun, smoky variation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover dumplings, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated dumplings just as delicious as fresh.
Freezing
For make-ahead magic, line uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. You can cook them straight from the freezer—just add a couple extra minutes to the steaming time and they’ll turn out perfectly.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pan-fry the dumplings again for a couple minutes per side, then add a splash of water and cover to steam until warmed through. Alternatively, pop them in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, for a quick fix. The chili crisp sauce can be stored separately and drizzled on just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer, Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in roasted kabocha, acorn squash, or even sweet potato if you have them on hand. The texture and flavor will shift slightly, but the Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings concept works beautifully with all sweet, starchy vegetables.
Are these dumplings spicy?
The heat level depends on how much chili crisp you add. Start with one tablespoon in the sauce and taste before adding more. If you love spice, go all in; if not, use less or choose a milder chili crisp brand.
Can I make these dumplings gluten-free?
Yes! Look for gluten-free dumpling or wonton wrappers—many Asian markets carry them, or you can make your own. Also, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the sauce.
What should I do if I can’t find chili crisp?
You can make a quick substitute by combining chili oil, a bit of crispy fried garlic or shallots, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The flavor won’t be identical, but you’ll still get a lovely spicy crunch to top your dumplings.
Can I steam the dumplings instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! If you prefer a softer, more delicate wrapper, just arrange the filled dumplings in a lined steamer basket and steam for 7–8 minutes until translucent and cooked through. They’ll be just as tasty when served with the chili crisp sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a new kitchen favorite, these Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings are sure to win your heart. They’re easy to make, bursting with bold flavors, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Give them a try and let each bite brighten up your table!
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Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 30 dumplings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and spicy Vegetarian Chili Crisp Butternut Squash Dumplings featuring a creamy butternut squash and ricotta filling, pan-fried to golden perfection and steamed for tender wrappers. Finished with a flavorful chili crisp soy dipping sauce, garnished with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Perfect as an appetizer or main course with an Asian-inspired fusion twist.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled, cubed, and roasted
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Dumplings
- 1 package round dumpling or wonton wrappers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Garnish
- 3 tablespoons chili crisp (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Roast until tender, about 25 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the Filling: Mash the roasted butternut squash in a bowl until smooth. Stir in ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg until fully combined to create a creamy filling.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of each dumpling or wonton wrapper. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water, fold into a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly to seal tightly.
- Pan-Fry the Dumplings: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange dumplings in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook until the bottoms are golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Steam the Dumplings: Carefully pour ¼ cup water into the skillet, cover with a lid, and steam the dumplings until the wrappers are tender and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chili crisp, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until well combined.
- Serve: Drizzle the chili crisp sauce over the cooked dumplings. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- These dumplings can be frozen before cooking and steamed directly from the freezer for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of chili crisp to suit your preferred spice level.
- They work well as a flavorful appetizer or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry, Steaming
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 dumplings with sauce
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
