The Best Way to Cook Frozen Dumplings at Home

Let’s get one thing out of the way: I’m a dumpling person. 

If there’s a bag of frozen dumplings in my freezer, I know I always have a quick and easy snack.

They’re the perfect quick meal or snack, and once you know how to cook them properly, they’re better than takeout—seriously.

Over the years, I’ve tested just about every method out there: pan frying, steaming, boiling, air frying (yes, even that TikTok-make-everything-in-an-air-fryer moment). 

Some were a little too soggy. Others involved more oil splatter than I care to admit. 

But eventually, I found my go-to methods that deliver crispy bottoms, tender wrappers, and perfectly hot fillings every single time.

If you’re staring at a bag of uncooked dumplings wondering where to start, this guide will walk you through my favorite ways to cook them at home for the best results.

First Things First: Know Your Dumpling

The type of dumpling you’re cooking matters. Are you working with gyoza dumplings? Chinese dumplings? Vegetarian, pork, shrimp, or a mix? Do they have thicker skins or delicate ones like fresh dumplings?

In most cases, store-bought frozen dumplings are already pre-steamed or partially cooked, so you’re just trying to heat them to a safe internal temp (165°F if you’re wondering) while crisping or tenderizing the outside.

Also, check your bag for any instructions—they’re usually helpful even if you end up tweaking the cook time based on your gear or stove.

Pan Frying (My Personal Favorite)

This is the classic potsticker method and my ride-or-die. It gives you that golden, crispy bottom and soft, chewy top—a perfect combo.

What you’ll need:

• A non-stick pan or non-stick frying pan
• A couple tablespoons of oil (I like neutral oil like canola or grapeseed, but olive oil works in a pinch)
• ½ cup of water or chicken broth
• A lid (important for steaming!)

How to do it:

1. Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan and set over medium-high heat.
2. Arrange your dumplings in a single layer, flat-side down, with a bit of space between them.
3. Let them sizzle untouched for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottom of the dumplings turn golden brown.
4. Add your half cup of cold water, cover immediately, and lower to medium heat. This creates steam and finishes cooking the tops.
5. Let them steam for 4–5 minutes, then uncover and let any remaining water evaporate.
6. If needed, increase the heat for 30 seconds to re-crisp the bottom. Done!

Tip: Always use a lid! No lid = no steam = sad, chewy wrappers.

Steaming (For Soft, Tender Dumplings)

If you want something closer to traditional steamed dumplings, this is the method to go for.

What you’ll need:

• A bamboo steamer or metal steamer basket
• Parchment paper with holes poked in it
• A pot of water
• Glass plates or a large plate to serve

Steps:

1. Line your steamer with parchment (to avoid sticking) and place dumplings in a circular pattern with a little room to breathe.
2. Place the steamer over boiling water, making sure the water level doesn’t touch the dumplings.
3. Steam for about 10 minutes. Add more time if they’re large or have thicker skins.
4. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tip: Want bonus flavor? Steam them over bok choy or napa cabbage leaves!

Boiling (Easiest Way, No Fuss)

This is probably the easiest way to cook frozen dumplings—no oil, no pan, just a large pot of water.

How to boil dumplings:

1. Boil water in a deep pot—you’ll need enough water to let the dumplings move freely.
2. Add frozen dumplings and stir gently so they don’t stick to the bottom.
3. Once the water returns to a boil, add a cup of cold water and let it come back to a boil again. Repeat once more.
4. The dumplings should float and look a bit puffy when they’re done.
5. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a large plate and serve.

Optional: Boil and then pan-fry them for a soft top and crispy bottom hybrid.

Air Fryer Dumplings (A TikTok Favorite)

Air fryers are having a moment—and with good reason. Air fryer dumplings are quick and low-mess, especially if you want something crisp without using much oil.

Air fryer recipe steps:

1. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with an oil sprayer (or brush on a tiny bit of oil).
2. Arrange dumplings in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.
3. Spray dumplings with oil and cook at 370°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Check that they’re crispy dumplings with heated centers before serving.

Tip: Use sesame oil for a toasty, nutty finish.

Deep Frying (When You’re Feeling Extra)

This isn’t my everyday method, but once in a while, deep frying delivers that perfect crunch.

• Heat enough oil (high smoke point like peanut or canola) in a deep pot.
• Carefully drop in dumplings and cook for about 2–3 minutes until golden.
• Drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet.

Good idea: Test one first to avoid undercooked centers or over-browned outsides.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

What’s a dumpling without a killer dipping sauce? My go-to is a simple mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of garlic chili oil. Want more heat? Add chile oil. Want it sweeter? Try a dash of honey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I keep frozen dumplings from sticking to the pan?

A: Use a non-stick pan and make sure the oil is hot before you add the dumplings. Placing them in a cold or lukewarm pan is the fast track to sticking.

Q: How do I store leftover dumplings?

A: Let them cool completely, then store in standard zipper-lock bags in the fridge. Reheat by pan-frying or air frying to bring back that crispy bottom.

Q: Can I refreeze dumplings if I thawed too many?

A: Technically yes, but the texture may suffer. For best results, cook what you need and refrigerate any extras for the next day.

Q: How much time should I cook frozen dumplings?

A: Depends on the method! Most take around 8–12 minutes total. Always check that the center is hot and steamy before serving.

Q: What’s the best method overall?

A: For me, pan frying wins every time. It’s the best way to get that crispy-chewy contrast, and it works well with just about any kind of dumpling.

Q: Can I cook frozen dumplings without oil?

A: Yes—steaming or boiling are great oil-free options. If you’re trying to avoid oil but still want crispiness, try the air fryer with just a light spritz from an oil sprayer.

Q: Do I need to thaw frozen dumplings before cooking?

A: Nope! You can cook them straight from the freezer. In fact, that’s the preferred cooking method for most store-bought dumplings. Thawing can make them soggy or cause the wrappers to tear.

Q: What’s the best oil to use for pan frying?

A: Go with a neutral oil that has a high smoke point, like canola, avocado, or vegetable oil. Olive oil is fine in a pinch, but it can burn faster and change the flavor.

Q: Why are my dumplings sticking to the pan?

A: This usually happens when you use too little oil, start with a cold pan, or try to flip them before they’ve crisped up. Always heat your non-stick pan and oil fully before adding dumplings.

Cooking frozen dumplings at home doesn’t have to be intimidating or messy. 

Whether you’re team air fryer, love a good non-stick frying pan, or prefer a bamboo steamer, there’s a method here that’ll get you hot, flavorful, crispy dumplings without much effort.

So stock up your freezer, grab your favorite dipping sauce, and get cooking.