Easy Nebraska Runzas – In the heart of America there is a comfort food that holds a special place, in Nebraskan cuisine. Easy Nebraska Runzas. These savory and handheld delights are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. Filled with ground beef, cabbage and a touch of nostalgia this recipe for Easy Nebraska Runzas is bound to become a favorite among family members. In this article we will take you through the process of creating these mouthwatering Runzas.
As someone who enjoys sharing my experiences on my blog I firmly believe that the memorable dishes often come with heartwarming stories. The first time I prepared Easy Nebraska Runzas was truly eye-opening. The enticing aroma of browning ground beef combined with onions and cabbage filled my kitchen instantly transporting me back to the Midwest. Witnessing the joy on my husband’s and child’s faces as they savored each bite made me realize that I had stumbled upon something. From then on these Runzas became a feature at our family gatherings prompting me to share the recipe with all of you.
What makes this Easy Nebraska Runzas truly irresistible?
Easy Nebraska Runzas offers a combination of convenience and homemade goodness. Utilizing roll dough makes them incredibly simple to prepare making them perfect for busy families and those new, to cooking. However what really makes them stand out is the blend of seasoned ground beef, sweet onions and tender cabbage. These handheld treats offer a harmony of flavors that bring to mind the comforting warmth of the Midwest. They are versatile enough to enjoy for lunch, dinner or, as a snack. Easy Nebraska Runzas guarantee a taste that is simply irresistible.
What You Need To Make This Easy Nebraska Runzas Recipe?
Frozen Unbaked Roll Dough: Imagine these rolls as your sidekicks transforming into fluffy vessels that embrace the savory filling. They’re the shortcut that turns this recipe from complex to convenient saving you time without compromising on flavor.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef takes stage in our Easy Nebraska Runzas offering a hearty taste. It’s, like the star performer in a masterpiece providing a meatiness that keeps you coming back for more.
Butter: Butter, an ingredient adds a touch of indulgence to the mixture infusing the filling with subtle richness. It’s like the comforting hug that brings all the flavors together in harmony creating a blend that dances on your palate.
Onion: Chopped onion works its magic by adding a hint of sweetness and depth to the filling. It’s the hero that quietly enhances the flavor profile making every bite an irresistible delight.
Cabbage: The cabbage is finely chopped to perfection. Brings crunchiness along with a mild earthy sweetness to the mix. Consider it as a vegetable superstar that adds both texture and a touch of goodness, to our Easy Nebraska Runzas.
Salt and Pepper: These essential ingredients are, like the conductors of the kitchen adding the amount of flavor to elevate your dishes. They ensure that every bite is perfectly balanced bringing harmony to your taste buds.
All-Purpose Flour: A sprinkle of flour acts like magic in cooking binding the filling together and keeping everything neatly tucked inside your Runza pockets.
Egg and Milk: When combined the egg and milk create a wash that not only gives a glossy finish but also enhances the visual appeal of your Easy Nebraska Runzas. It’s, like adding that touch to a work of art making each Runza shine with pride as if made from scratch.
Steps To Make Easy Nebraska Runzas:
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Step 1: Start by placing the rolls on baking sheets lined with parchment paper making sure to leave some distance, between each roll. Cover them with plastic wrap. Let them rise at room temperature until they double in size. This may take around 3 to 5 hours. Plan accordingly.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef until it’s about halfway browned. Then add the butter chopped onion and cabbage to the skillet. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions and cabbage are tender. Allow this mixture to cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: On a floured surface use your fingers to shape each dough ball into a patty similar, to mini pizza dough. Spoon an amount of the hamburger mixture onto the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold up the edges of the dough. Pinch them together to ensure they’re sealed properly. Gently roll each Runza between your hands to smooth out any seams before placing it on the parchment paper with the sealed side facing downwards. Repeat this process for all remaining dough balls. Cover them with plastic wrap allowing them to rest for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Create an egg wash by whisking an egg and some milk. Brush this egg wash evenly over all of the Runzas.
Step 6: Place the baking tray with the dough, in the oven that has been preheated. Let it bake for about 18 to 20 minutes until it acquires a brown color. Remember to rotate the baking sheet halfway to ensure even cooking.
Tip:
To enhance the flavor and bring a touch you might want to think about including an amount of caraway seeds, in the filling mixture. These fragrant seeds are frequently used in Runza recipes. Add a distinct earthy and slightly nutty taste that takes the overall culinary experience up a notch whisking your taste buds away, to the core of Nebraska. Remember, a little goes a long way. Use sparingly and relish in the delightful distinction.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make Easy Nebraska Runzas ahead of time and freeze them?
Absolutely! You can definitely make Easy Nebraska Runzas ahead of time. Freeze them. Once they are baked allow them to cool. Then individually wrap each one in plastic wrap. After that place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, for storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
What other fillings can I use besides ground beef and cabbage?
If you’re looking for fillings besides ground beef and cabbage there are plenty of options to explore. You could try using ground turkey for a twist or experiment with sautéed mushrooms, for added flavor. For a vegetarian version consider using black beans combined with cheese.
Can I use homemade roll dough instead of frozen?
Of course! Using roll dough of frozen dough is absolutely fine. In fact it adds a layer of taste. Allows you to customize the recipe according to your preferences. Just ensure that your homemade dough has time to rise properly before shaping it into the Runzas.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Easy Nebraska Runzas
Ingredients
- 16 Rhodes rolls frozen unbaked roll dough
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 c finely chopped cabbage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Let the frozen rolls rise at room temperature until they double in size, which usually takes around 3 to 5 hours.
- In a skillet cook the ground beef with butter, onion and cabbage until it is fully cooked and nicely browned.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take each roll. Flatten it into a circle. Then spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling. Press the edges together to seal them. Place the filled rolls, on a baking sheet with the sealed side down.
- In a bowl whisk together an egg and some milk. Brush this mixture over the top of each Runza to give them a finish when baked.
- Bake in your preheated oven, for 18 to 20 minutes. Until they turn a lovely golden brown color.
- Now you can savor the flavors of the Midwest with your own homemade Easy Nebraska Runzas!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
