Runza Casserole

Okay, friend, let me tell you about this.Runza CasserolIt’s like a warm, savory hug on ta plate. reminiscent of those classic flavors but in an easy to follow recipe. What is casserole form? What’s a Sloppy Joes recipe? If you love comfort food that doesn’t take all day, you NEED this in your life. My kids go bonkers for it, and that’s saying something since they’re usually pretty good at it. I swear, my kids love it too.Runza CasserolWhat are some of the best recipe ideas?

What is Runza Casserole?

What is the meaning of “what is”?Runza CasserolWhat is a classic runza sandwich? All nestled in a soft, yeasty dough. Now, picture deconstructing that sandwich and turning it into a super-easy casserole. What are some of the best cheesy fillings in a casserole? What’s a shortcut to all that savory goodness without having to fuss with individual dough pieces? What is the perfect way to enjoy comforting flavors in a convenient and shareable dish? Is it a crowd pleaser?

Why do I love this recipe?

What are some of the best casserole recipes out there?Runza CasserolWhat I love about this recipe is how incredibly flavorful it is. What are some of the best combinations of GROUND BEEF, sweet cabbage, and onions? What is a “chef’s kiss” What are some of the best flavors you’ve ever had in a restaurant? Is this recipe easy? I’m short on time and energy but still want to have a good night. This is the perfect night for me. What is the most satisfying Throw it together, bake it and dinner is served! Plus, let’s be real, groceries are expensive these days.Runza CasserolIs surprisingly budget friendly? What are some good ground beef and cabbage recipes? We all love saving a bit of money, right? And finally, this casserole is super versatile. How do you adapt a recipe to your own tastes? What I am trying to say is that there is so much to love about this recipe, and that is why you will love it. Make it over and over.

How do I make Runza Casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this Runza CasserolIs it surprisingly easy? I’ll start by browning GROUND BEEF with onions, then mix in shredded cabbage and a few simple ingredients. Next, you will layer it in a baking dish and top with bread for crunch. What do you bake until golden brown? Is this recipe foolproof?

Ingredients

For the Meat Mixture:

1 pound ground beef (I usually go for 80/20 for extra flavor)
1 medium onion, chopped.
1/2 head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
1 teaspoon salt is a teaspoon.
How much black pepper should I add to my salad?
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. 1/4 teaspoon salt.
1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (trust me on this one)?

What is the cheese sauce?

4 tablespoons butter. 2 teaspoons
What is all-purpose flour? 4 tablespoons.
3 cups milk (I’ve used everything from skim to whole, even almond milk, and it all works!
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. 1 cup grated cheese, 1
Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Topping:

6 slices of bread, cubed (I usually use whatever I have on hand – sourdough, white, wheat, it all).
2 tablespoons of melted butter. 1 tablespoon of

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always do this with butter because it adds a little extra flavor, but cooking spray works too. How do I make a perfect pan for serving?

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. How do you break up beef with a spoon? Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. What is the best way to drain off grease from a casserole?

Step 3: Add Cabbage & Seasonings

Add the shredded cabbage, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and caraway seeds to the skillet with the cabbage mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is softened, about 8-10 minutes. When you eat cabbage, don’t worry if it seems like a lot at first.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

While the cabbage is cooking, make the cheese sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste. (this is called a roux). Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to get rid of any lumps. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the ground beef and cabbage mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. In a bowl, toss the bread with the melted butter. Pour the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle bread cubes evenly over the cheese sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are browned. Are golden brown? If the breadcrumbs start to get too brown, you can loosely tent the casserole with foil for the last few minutes. 10 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit and make it easier to cut.

What to Serve It With

This Runza Casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but it’s always nice to have some sides to round out the meal. For a simple side dish, I love serving it with a fresh green salad. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole. If you’re feeling a little more ambitious, you could also serve it with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. They add some extra nutrients and color to the plate. Or, for a comforting and classic pairing, you can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes. They’re the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious cheese sauce! Honestly, there is no wrong way to enjoy this Runza Casserole.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Runza Casserole

Okay, so I’ve made this Runza Casserole *a lot*, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make sure it turns out perfectly every time. First off, don’t skimp on the caraway seeds! They add that signature runza flavor that you just can’t get anywhere else. I know some people aren’t fans, but trust me, they really make the dish. Second, make sure you drain the ground beef really well after browning it. Nobody wants a greasy casserole, so take the extra minute to get rid of all that excess fat. I have learned to use a paper towel to dab off any excess grease. Third, don’t overcook the cabbage. You want it to be softened, but not mushy. Nobody likes mushy cabbage, right? Finally, if you want to get really fancy, you can add a layer of sauerkraut to the casserole before topping it with the cheese sauce. I actually prefer it with sauerkraut. It adds a nice tang and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese. But it is all about preference. You can use different types of bread for the topping. I’ve used everything from sourdough to rye to even leftover hamburger buns, and it all works! You can also add different cheeses to the cheese sauce. I like to use a combination of cheddar and Gruyere for a really flavorful and melty sauce. If you want to add a little bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu. Overall, don’t worry too much about making mistakes! You will be sure to make a delicious Runza Casserole.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover Runza Casserole (which is rare at my house!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When reheating, you can either microwave it for a few minutes until heated through, or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. I actually prefer baking it because it helps to crisp up the breadcrumbs again. I find that microwaving it makes it a little bit soggy. I also love to use the toaster over to make sure that it is crispy enough. It’s important to keep in mind to only store the glaze on the runza casserole when you are ready to serve it. If you store it with the glaze, it will result in a soggier casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread for the topping and make sure your flour is a gluten-free blend when making the cheese sauce. I’ve done it many times, and it tastes just as good.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Nope, no need to peel the zucchini! The skin is perfectly edible and adds a nice bit of texture to the casserole. Plus, it saves you time!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a great idea! You’d need to adjust the baking time, probably reducing it to about 20-25 minutes, but it should work perfectly. Just make sure to grease your muffin tin well!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

You can reduce the amount of glaze you add, or even omit it entirely. You could also use a sugar substitute in the glaze if you prefer.

What can I use instead of the bread?

Crushed crackers or even those fried onions are great substitutes!

Final Thoughts

This Runza Casserole recipe is a surefire way to bring a little bit of comfort and joy to your dinner table. It’s easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a potluck dish that will impress, this casserole has got you covered. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other casserole recipes – you might just find your new favorite! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your Runza Casserole turns out!