There is something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and comes together effortlessly. I first discovered the magic of potsticker soup on a cold evening when I needed something quick but nourishing. With a bag of frozen dumplings in the freezer and some fresh veggies on hand, this soup became an instant favorite in my kitchen.
If you’re a beginner cook looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this Potsticker Soup is perfect. It takes under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, and is completely customizable to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a light broth or a spicier version, this dish adapts beautifully.
Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it your own.

Why This Potsticker Soup Is Special
This soup stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Instead of making dumplings from scratch, it relies on frozen potstickers (or gyoza), which saves a ton of time while still delivering incredible flavor. The broth is infused with fresh garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, giving it a rich and satisfying taste.
Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
- Fast and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable – Swap out veggies, change the dumplings, or add spice to suit your preferences.
- Nutritious and Light – Packed with fresh vegetables and a clear broth, making it a healthy meal choice.
- Beginner-Friendly – No complicated techniques, just simple steps that anyone can follow.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting potsticker soup, along with why each ingredient matters:
- Frozen Potstickers (or Gyoza) – The star of the dish, these dumplings add heartiness and texture. Choose vegetable, chicken, or pork varieties.
- Mushrooms (Shiitake, Baby Bella, or White Mushrooms) – Add a deep, earthy umami flavor to the broth.
- Baby Bok Choy (or Spinach) – Provides a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a vibrant green color.
- Scallions (Green Onions) – Used both in the broth and as a garnish for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Fresh Garlic and Ginger – Essential aromatics that add warmth and depth to the broth.
- Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth) – Forms the base of the soup, so use a high-quality broth for the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami and saltiness of the broth.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – A finishing touch that brings a nutty, rich aroma to the dish.
- Optional Toppings – Chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, furikake, or fried garlic can add extra texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap baby bok choy for spinach, kale, or napa cabbage.
- Use wontons or dumplings instead of potstickers.
- If you don’t have mushrooms, try shredded carrots or bell peppers.
- For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they soften and brown slightly. Then, add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the broth to a boil, letting the flavors blend for 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Potstickers and Vegetables
Add the frozen potstickers, half of the sliced scallions, and the baby bok choy. Stir gently to submerge everything in the broth. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the potstickers are fully cooked and floating.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle in toasted sesame oil and season with black pepper to taste. Give it a final stir and remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and generously top with the remaining scallions. For extra flavor, sprinkle on your favorite toppings like chili crisp, sesame seeds, or furikake. Serve hot and enjoy!
Beginner Tips and Troubleshooting
- Avoid Overcooking the Dumplings – They can fall apart if left in the broth too long. Add them just before serving.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Add more soy sauce, sesame oil, or spice to customize your bowl.
- Make It Heartier – Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Save Time – Prep ingredients ahead of time and use store-bought pre-cut mushrooms and washed greens.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this potsticker soup with:
- Steamed Rice – For a more filling meal.
- Garlic Green Beans – A crunchy, savory side.
- Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables – To add a tangy, spicy contrast.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freeze – The broth can be frozen, but dumplings may become soggy upon reheating. If making ahead, freeze the soup without the dumplings and add fresh ones when reheating.
Try This Easy Potsticker Soup Today
If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful soup, this Easy Potsticker Soup is a must-try. It’s perfect for beginner cooks, completely adaptable to your taste, and guaranteed to become a go-to meal in your kitchen.
Give it a try and let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below with your favorite variations or any questions you have. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Potsticker Soup
Yes, fresh dumplings work just as well! However, they may cook faster than frozen ones, so reduce the simmering time to avoid overcooking.
Baby bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers all work great. Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand.
Avoid overcooking them. Add the dumplings just a few minutes before serving so they stay intact and don’t become too soft.
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and opt for vegetarian potstickers or dumplings. You can also add tofu for extra protein.
More Relevant Recipes
- Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
- Creamy Garlic Sauce Baby Potatoes
- Stuffed Mushroom Dip: The Perfect Appetizer

Cozy Potsticker Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This quick and cozy Potsticker Soup is a 30-minute one-pot meal featuring tender dumplings in a flavorful garlic-ginger broth. It’s perfect for chilly nights, easy to customize, and great for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons grated or minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 16 to 20 ounces frozen potstickers
- 5 scallions, thinly sliced and divided
- 3 baby bok choy, leaves separated
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chili crisp, toasted sesame seeds, furikake, fried garlic
Instructions
- Sauté the mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they become golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add the aromatics: Pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about a minute until fragrant.
- Build the broth: Add the vegetable broth and soy sauce to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes.
- Cook the potstickers and vegetables: Gently place the frozen potstickers into the broth along with half of the sliced scallions and the bok choy. Let the soup simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the dumplings are fully cooked and floating.
- Finish with seasoning: Drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining scallions. For extra flavor, add chili crisp, sesame seeds, or any other preferred toppings. Enjoy hot!
Notes
- If using fresh dumplings, reduce the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- For a richer broth, add a spoonful of miso paste or a splash of rice vinegar.
- Want extra protein? Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- To make the soup spicy, add sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 10mg