Runza Casserole Recipe

GF

GR

DF

EF

NF

P

Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly autumn evening, the kind where you just want to curl up with something warm and comforting. That’s when I start craving this Runza Casserole Recipe! It’s like a big, warm hug in a dish. I remember my grandma making something similar when I was little – the smell alone would make the whole house feel cozy. If you love a good shepherd’s pie or a cheesy beef bake, you’re going to absolutely adore this. It has that same comforting vibe, but with a unique twist that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!). This delicious runza casserole is just the thing you need for a hearty and comforting family meal.

What is Runza Casserole?

Alright, so what exactly *is* a Runza Casserole? Think of it as a deconstructed, family-friendly version of the classic Nebraska Runza sandwich. You know, that amazing pocket of dough filled with seasoned GROUND BEEF, cabbage, and onions? This casserole takes all those fantastic flavors and layers them into an easy-to-bake dish. It’s essentially a simplified way to enjoy the Runza experience without having to individually stuff and shape each bun. We’re talking about all the savory, slightly sweet goodness, but in casserole form! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have a ton of time to spend in the kitchen. My family begs for this dish at least once a month!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to fall head-over-heels for this Runza Casserole Recipe.

First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The combination of savory ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy cabbage creates a symphony of tastes that just explodes in your mouth. It’s a truly addictive blend.

Then there’s the simplicity. Seriously, this recipe is a breeze to throw together. Even on my busiest nights, I can whip this up without feeling stressed. The ingredients are all pretty common, too, so you probably already have most of them in your pantry and fridge.

Plus, it’s so incredibly budget-friendly! Ground beef is a relatively inexpensive protein, and cabbage and onions are super affordable veggies. You can feed a whole family with this casserole without breaking the bank, which is always a win in my book.

What I love most about this is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking! Add some shredded cheese for extra gooeyness, throw in some diced carrots for added sweetness, or sprinkle some caraway seeds on top for an authentic Runza flavor. It’s a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch. It really reminds me of the time I made a lasagna casserole – equally comforting but with an Italian twist.

Honestly, this Runza Casserole recipe is a total game-changer. It’s delicious, easy, affordable, and endlessly customizable. What’s not to love?

How do I make Runza Casserole?

Quick Overview

How do I make a Runza Casserole? What’s the best way to brown ground beef with onions and cabbage? What is a simple, savory dough? What’s a good casserole? What’s a weeknight dinner What can I do in less than an hour? I promise, the simplicity of this recipe will surprise you!

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour (I prefer unbleached for a slightly nutty flavor)
* 1 tablespoon baking powder (Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise!)
* 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt adds a little extra depth)
* 34 cup milk (I’ve even used unsweetened almond milk, and it works great)
* 14 cup melted butter (Adds richness and helps create a tender crust)

For the Filling:
* 1 pound ground beef (I like to use 80/20 for flavor, but you can use leaner if you prefer)
* 1 medium onion, chopped (Yellow or white onions work well)
* 4 cups shredded cabbage (About half a head of cabbage)
* 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste)
* 12 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground is always best)
* 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (Optional, but adds that classic runza flavor! I highly recommend it)
* 1/4 cup beef broth (adds moisture and flavor; chicken broth also works in a pinch)

Optional for Topping:
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice! ) * Everything bagel seasoning (Adds a nice flavor and texture to the top)

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use butter or cooking spray, but you can also line it with parchment paper for easy access. What is the one step you don’t want to skip, trust me?

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. When beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. If you leave the grease in the casserole, be sure to get rid of it!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and shredded cabbage to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until onions are softened and the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes. If cabbage is cooked, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cabbage will shrink down a bit as it cooks.

Step 4: Season Filling

Stir in the caraway seeds and beef broth. Add to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for kick.

Step 5: Prepare Dough

While the filling is simmering, prepare the dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the milk and butter. Set aside. How do you combine wet and dry ingredients in a bowl? Do not overmix! A few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

How do I spread the dough in a baking dish? What should I do if I have a thin layer of cabbage and beef mixture? If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

Step 7: Bake

Is the filling too thick for the dough? If so, bake for 25-30 minutes. How long does it take to bake a cake? What’s your favorite way to top bagel seasoning while baking?

Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. What’s the best way to serve a grilled chicken and enjoy! I like to serve mine with Sour Cream or mustard, just like a traditional side dish.

What should I serve it with?

This Runza Casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with a few delicious sides.

For a Simple Weeknight Dinner: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect way to balance out the richness of the casserole. I also like to serve it with some steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a healthy dose of veggies.

For a Cozy Weekend Meal: If you’re looking to make it a bit more special, try serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy au gratin potatoes. A warm, crusty bread is also a great addition for soaking up all those delicious juices.

For a Potluck or Gathering: This casserole is always a hit at potlucks! Serve it alongside other comfort food favorites like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. Don’t forget the desserts!

My family also loves having this casserole with some homemade pickles. The tanginess of the pickles cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. I often make a big batch of dill pickles in the summer and we enjoy them all year long. It’s a tradition that makes every meal feel special.

How do I make a perfect runza casserole?

What are some tips to take your Runza Casserole to the next level?Cabbage Prep:How do you shred cabbage? This will help it cook properly and prevent it from being too tough. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-shredded cabbage, but I find that freshly shredded carrot is a good substitute for regular cabbage. Is there a better flavor?Beef Browning:When browning ground beef, don’t overcrowd the pan. This will cause it to steam instead of brown. Brown beef in batches if necessary. And don’t forget to drain off the excess grease!Dough Mixing:Do not overmix the dough. Overmixing will result in a tough casserole. How do you mix wet and dry ingredients together?Cheese Choice:What are some good toppings for a Runza Casserole? What are some good cheeses to try: Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of them? I sometimes use smoked Gouda for a smoky flavor.Spice It Up:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the beef and cabbage mixture. How do you add hot sauce to sour cream?Oven Placement: For even baking, place the casserole in the center of the oven. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

I learned the importance of not overmixing the dough the hard way. The first time I made this casserole, the dough was so tough I could barely cut it! Now I’m extra careful to mix it gently, and the results are always perfect.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Runza Casserole:

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving the casserole at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave. Just be sure to cover them with a paper towel to prevent splattering.

If you’re planning on freezing the casserole, I recommend waiting to add the cheese topping until after it’s been thawed and reheated. This will prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. The best way to revive the cabbage is to add a little water or beef broth when reheating, so the casserole stays nice and moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make this Runza Casserole gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the dough. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You may need to add a little extra milk to the dough to achieve the right consistency.

Do I need to peel the onion?

Yes, you should peel the onion before chopping it for the Runza Casserole. The outer layers of the onion can be tough and papery, and they won’t cook down properly in the casserole. Peeling the onion will also remove any dirt or debris that may be on the outer layers.

Can I make this as individual Runzas instead?

Absolutely! You can use the same filling recipe and wrap it in individual dough portions. Just divide the dough into smaller pieces, flatten them out, fill with the beef and cabbage mixture, and bake until golden brown. Keep an eye on baking time as individual Runzas will bake much faster than the casserole.

How can I adjust the seasoning levels?

Taste as you go! Start with the recommended amount of salt, pepper, and caraway seeds, and then adjust to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika. Just be careful not to overdo it!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my family’s beloved Runza Casserole Recipe! I truly hope you give it a try. It’s a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, and I know it will bring comfort and joy to your table as well. This casserole is so easy to make, and the flavor is just out of this world. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dish, this Runza Casserole is sure to please.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my shepherd’s pie or my lasagna casserole. They’re all equally comforting and delicious!

Happy cooking, friends! And please, let me know in the comments how your Runza Casserole turns out. I can’t wait to hear from you!

No ratings yet