Hi, I’m Jacob Allen, and I love exploring recipes in my kitchen. Today, I made a classic Runza Recipe that always reminds me of home. It’s filled with tasty ingredients like seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and cheese, all wrapped up in soft bread dough. It’s comfort food at its best!
While I was making the runzas, I remembered a trip I took through Nebraska. I found this cute little diner in a small town and tried homemade runzas for the first time. They were so tasty, with a yummy filling and crispy crust. It was a memorable experience!
That experience made me really excited to make my own version of those tasty runzas. I can’t wait to share it with you! Let’s bake together and enjoy a delicious taste of the Midwest! If you want more cozy recipes, I’ve got plenty!
A Look at History of Runza Recipe
The Runza, also known as a bierock or krautburger, has its roots in Eastern Europe, particularly Germany and Russia. It is believed that German immigrants brought the concept of filled bread pockets to the United States in the late 19th century.
In the Midwest, particularly in Nebraska, the Runza gained popularity as a hearty and convenient meal for immigrants and settlers working in the fields. Its simple yet satisfying combination of bread dough filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and sometimes onions or cheese made it a staple in many households.
Over time, the Runza evolved and became a beloved regional dish, with variations emerging based on local tastes and ingredients. Today, it is a cherished comfort food in the Midwest, with many diners, restaurants, and even fast-food chains offering their own take on this classic recipe.
Overview: How to Make Runza Recipe?
The Runza Recipe is a beloved dish from the Midwest, especially in Nebraska. It’s like a warm hug in the form of a bread pocket stuffed with tasty ingredients like seasoned ground beef, cabbage, onions, and cheese. People love it for its comforting flavors and hearty filling.
Making Runzas is easy and fun. You start by cooking up the flavorful filling on the stove, then you roll out some bread dough and fill it with the savory mixture. After sealing it up, you pop it in the oven until it turns a beautiful golden brown. The result? A delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
What’s great about Runzas is that you can make them your own. Feel free to add your favorite spices or veggies to the filling, or switch up the type of cheese you use. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, Runzas always hit the spot with their comforting taste and homemade goodness.
Runza Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking sheets
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Ground Beef
- 1 Medium Onion
- 1 Medium Cabbage
- 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Pepper
- 2 Packages Refrigerated Bread Dough
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in cabbage, cheese, salt, and pepper; cook until cabbage is wilted.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each loaf of dough into a 12-inch square.
- Cut each square into four smaller squares.
- Place about 1/3 cup of filling in the center of each square.
- Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle; seal edges tightly.
- Place on greased baking sheets.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the runzas are sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
- Customize the filling by adding spices or vegetables according to your preference.
Nutrition
Time For My Personal Tips!
Tip 1: For a quicker version, use store-bought frozen bread dough and thaw according to package instructions.
Tip 2: Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
Tip 3: Make mini runzas by cutting the dough into smaller squares for appetizers or snacks.
Tip 4: Ensure the cabbage is finely shredded to evenly distribute throughout the filling.
Tip 5: Brush the tops of the runzas with melted butter before baking for a golden crust.
What to Serve With Runza Recipe?
Authentic Runza Recipe!
The classic Runza features a blend of seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and onions encased in bread dough, baked until it’s a beautiful golden brown.
Pro Advice:
If you’d rather not make your own bread dough, I recommend using frozen bread dough. Rhodes brand dinner rolls have proven to be the best alternative.
Variations:
- Philly Cheesesteak Runza: Fill with sliced steak, sautéed onions, peppers, and provolone cheese.
- Breakfast Runza: Stuff with scrambled eggs, cooked breakfast sausage, and cheddar cheese.
- BBQ Chicken Runza: Use shredded BBQ chicken, caramelized onions, and Monterey Jack cheese for a tangy twist.
Can I Make Vegetarian Runzas?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time for a Party?
Yes, assemble the runzas ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven if chilled.