Runza Casserole Recipe

Runza Casserole Recipe: A Taste of Nebraska Comfort

 Runza Casserole is a comforting dish inspired by the famous Nebraska Runza sandwiches, which are beloved for their flavorful filling of ground beef, cabbage, and onions, all enclosed in a warm, soft bread pocket. This casserole version takes those same delicious ingredients and bakes them into a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Get ready to experience a taste of Nebraska comfort with this Runza Casserole recipe.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
• 4 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough

For the Runza Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Instructions:

Prepare the Runza Filling:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet with the beef and onion. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and season the beef and cabbage mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Set the filling aside.

Prepare the Runza Sauce: 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard. This sauce will add a tangy kick to the casserole.

Assemble the Casserole: 5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating the bottom layer of the casserole. Make sure to seal any perforations in the dough.
7. Spread half of the Runza sauce over the crescent roll dough.
8. Spoon the beef and cabbage filling evenly over the sauce layer.
9. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese over the filling.
10. Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the cheese and filling, creating the top layer of the casserole. Again, be sure to seal any perforations in the dough.
11. Spread the remaining half of the Runza sauce over the top crescent roll layer.
12. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the sauce.

Bake and Serve: 13. Bake the Runza Casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.

14. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook’s Notes:

• You can add a bit of garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the filling for extra flavor if you like.
• Serve the Runza Casserole with a side of pickles, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover casserole can be refrigerated and reheated for a tasty next-day lunch or dinner.

  Runza Casserole is a delightful twist on the iconic Nebraska Runza sandwich, featuring a savory filling of ground beef, cabbage, and onions, all enveloped in layers of crescent roll dough and Swiss cheese. It’s a taste of heartwarming comfort that’s perfect for a family meal or a potluck gathering. So, follow this recipe, whip up your own Runza Casserole, and savor the flavors of Nebraska comfort in every bite.