This Runza Recipe uses already-prepared frozen bread dough and browned ground beef mixed with onion and green cabbage and seasoned with salt and fresh ground black pepper.

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, savory parcel of goodness. This Runza recipe ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and deeply rooted in tradition. Originating from Nebraska, Runzas are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Imagine biting into a golden-brown pocket, bursting with seasoned ground beef, vibrant green cabbage, and perfectly cooked onions. It’s not just dinner; it’s a wholesome experience that’s bound to please even the pickiest of eaters in your family. With the convenience of frozen bread dough, you can whip up this dish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this Runza recipe a must-try? For starters, it’s incredibly budget-friendly without sacrificing any flavor. The hearty filling means you won’t need to serve anything overly complicated alongside it; one Runza can satisfy. It’s an excellent choice for a fun family dinner or a delightful meal prep option to enjoy throughout the week. Serve them for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack for those munchy afternoons!

"I’ve never seen my kids eat cabbage until I introduced them to this Runza recipe! They loved it, and I felt good knowing they were getting their veggies." — A happy home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Getting to that delicious filling and flaky bread is a breeze. First, you’ll brown your ground beef with onions right in the skillet, letting those flavors meld beautifully. Then, you’ll mix in the finely chopped cabbage, seasoning everything perfectly to create a savory mixture that’s simply irresistible. Finally, you’ll use the thawed frozen bread dough as a wrap to encase this delectable filling, baking until golden brown. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ve created a home-cooked delight right from scratch!

What You’ll Need

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Here’s what you’ll need to gather before diving in:

• Frozen bread dough (two loaves, thawed)
• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Onion (1 medium, diced)
• Green cabbage (2 cups, finely chopped)
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper (to taste)

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for lighter or vegetarian options!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the cabbage wilts and is tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Take the thawed bread dough and roll it out into rectangles (about 5×7 inches).
5. Spoon a generous amount of the beef and cabbage mixture onto each piece of dough.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal.
7. Place topped seams down on the baking sheet. Allow the Runzas to rise for about 30 minutes.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Your Runzas are now ready to delight your taste buds!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving these Runzas can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. They shine on their own, but you can complement them with a crisp green salad or a side of creamy coleslaw for added texture. Try dipping them in a zesty mustard or a tangy sauce for an added kick. For a comforting feel, why not serve them with homemade potato wedges or a bowl of warm tomato soup?

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing your Runza leftovers is simple. Place any cooled Runzas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you plan to enjoy them later, you can freeze the assembled (but uncooked) Runzas for up to two months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Always ensure that your food is stored at safe temperatures to prevent spoilage.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or adding spices like paprika to the beef mixture.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-prepared coleslaw mix instead of chopping fresh cabbage.
• Make sure not to overfill your dough pockets; otherwise, they may burst while baking.

Creative Twists

Feel like mixing it up? Try adding shredded cheese to the filling for a little extra richness. You might also experiment with different vegetables like carrots, or even swap out the beef for diced chicken or a meat alternative. Consider incorporating regional spices like cumin or coriander for a tastier twist!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Runzas?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about an hour, considering prep and cook time.

Can I use store-bought dough instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh bread dough works perfectly if you prefer a homemade touch.

How can I reheat leftover Runzas?
Simply pop them in the microwave for a quick minute, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for best results.

Elevate your family dinners with this delicious and convenient Runza recipe! With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a household favorite.