Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Place the frozen rolls on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving a few inches of space between each one.
- Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, which can take approximately 3 to 5 hours. Plan ahead, as rising time may vary based on room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef.
- Once the beef begins to brown, add the chopped cabbage, diced onion, and 2 tablespoons butter.
- Cook until the beef is fully browned and the cabbage and onions are softened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the mixture is too liquid, sprinkle 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over it to thicken.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Assemble the Runzas
- On a lightly floured surface, flatten each dough ball with your fingers to form a circle, resembling a small pizza dough.
- Place a heaping spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Bring the edges of the dough up over the filling and pinch them together to seal.
- Gently roll the filled dough in your hands to smooth the seams and form a bun shape.
- Place the filled Runzas seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Cover the assembled Runzas loosely with plastic wrap and let them rest for 30 minutes.
Alt Image Text: “Assembling Runzas by filling dough circles with beef mixture and sealing edges.”
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon milk to create an egg wash.
- Brush the top of each Runza lightly with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden shine when baked.
Alt Image Text: “Brushing egg wash over assembled Runzas before baking for a golden crust.”
Step 6: Bake the Runzas
- Bake the Runzas in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the Runzas from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your homemade Nebraska-style Runzas!
Tips and Notes
- Plan Ahead: The dough needs several hours to rise, so be sure to start early or prepare the dough the night before.
- Control Rising Time: If the dough rises too quickly and you’re not ready to assemble, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to an hour to slow down the rising process.
- Dough Options: If you can’t find Rhodes brand frozen roll dough, look for similar frozen bread dough in your grocer’s freezer section. You can also use crescent roll dough as an alternative.
- Handling Sticky Dough: If the dough is sticky, dust your work surface and hands with a little flour to make handling easier.
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the Runzas with egg wash gives them a professional, bakery-quality appearance. Alternatively, you can brush them with melted butter for added flavor.
What to Serve with Runzas
These savory meat-filled buns are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with:
- Potato Salad: A classic side dish that complements the hearty filling.
- Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness.
- Pickles and Mustard: Serve with dill pickles and spicy mustard for extra flavor.
- Soup or Salad: A bowl of soup or a fresh green salad makes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
-
- Calories: 222 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Cholesterol: 28 mg
- Sodium: 365 mg
- Potassium: 115 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Vitamin A: 61 IU
- Vitamin C: 3 mg
- Calcium: 70 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze Runzas?
A: Yes! Runzas freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make vegetarian Runzas?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or other vegetables for the filling.
Q: Can I add cheese to the filling?
A: Yes! Adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling adds a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
Making Simple Nebraska-Style Runzas at home is easier than you might think, especially with the convenience of ready-made frozen roll dough. These delicious meat-filled buns are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re familiar with this Midwestern classic or trying it for the first time, this easy recipe brings the authentic taste of Nebraska right to your kitchen.
