EASY NEBRASKA RUNZAS

Runzas, also known as bierocks, are delicious stuffed buns filled with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and onions. They are a traditional dish in Nebraska and surrounding regions. Here’s an easy recipe to make Nebraska Runzas at home:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups shredded cabbage (about 1/2 small head)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
   • Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture and mix well.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling:
   • In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
   • Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until it wilts and becomes tender.
   • Season the filling with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using. Stir well to combine. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each dough ball into a circle or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to enclose it, and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
8. Place the filled buns on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
9. Bake the Runzas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove from the oven and let the Runzas cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Nebraska Runzas warm as a delicious meal or snack! They can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave for later enjoyment.