Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we’re venturing into the heartland of America with a beloved regional specialty: the Nebraska Runza. This delicious hand-held treat, also known as a bierock, is a savory pastry filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and cabbage, all wrapped up in a warm and fluffy dough. Whether you’re a Nebraska native longing for a taste of home or simply curious to try a new and delicious dish, our Simple Nebraska Runza recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the Midwest with every bite.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to experience the comforting flavors of home-cooked Midwestern cuisine. Whether you’re a Nebraska native feeling nostalgic for the taste of a classic Runza or a food lover eager to explore regional specialties from around the country, our Simple Nebraska Runza recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s also great for busy individuals and families looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for enjoying on the go.
Why It’s Great
What makes our Simple Nebraska Runza recipe great is its combination of simple ingredients and delicious flavors. Made with basic pantry staples like ground beef, onions, and cabbage, and wrapped in a homemade dough, these hand-held pastries are a testament to the simple joys of home cooking. Plus, they’re highly customizable, allowing you to add your own twist with additional seasonings or fillings. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing party snack, these Runzas are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into an oval shape.
- Spoon a generous portion of the filling onto one half of each oval of dough, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
- Place the filled Runzas on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove the Runzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
With their hearty filling and soft, fluffy dough, our Simple Nebraska Runzas are a delicious taste of home that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Whether you’re enjoying them for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack, these hand-held pastries are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting recipes from the heartland. Happy cooking!
