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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Flatten each dough ball into a circle or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled filling onto one half of each dough circle. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to enclose it, and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Place the filled buns on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
- Bake the Runzas in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- 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.