Nebraska Runzas are comforting hand pies filled with savory beef, cabbage, and onions, perfect for cozy nights. These delightful pastries are a staple in Nebraska, combining flavors and textures that create a warm, satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying them at a local restaurant or making your own homemade Runzas, they are a favorite among many. Let’s dive into the world of Nebraska Runzas and discover why they are so beloved.

Why You’ll Love This Nebraska Runzas

There are countless reasons to adore Nebraska Runzas. First, these hand pies are not only delicious but incredibly filling, making them perfect for dinner. With their savory beef and vegetable filling, they are an excellent way to get your protein and veggies in one bite. The Runza recipe is also versatile; you can customize the filling to suit your tastes. In addition, they are easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, homemade Runzas can be frozen and reheated, providing a quick meal option when needed. Lastly, they evoke a sense of nostalgia for many who grew up enjoying these tasty treats.

Nebraska Runzas: 8 Comforting Hand Pies You’ll Love - Nebraska Runzas - main visual representation

Ingredients for Nebraska Runzas

Gather these items:

4 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with bread flour for chewier texture)
1 tablespoon sugar (can be reduced or substituted with honey)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast (ensure it’s fresh for best results)
1 teaspoon salt (essential for flavor)
1 cup milk (any milk works, including dairy-free alternatives)
1/4 cup water (use room temperature for best results)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (can be substituted with margarine)
2 large eggs (can substitute with flax egg for vegan option)
1 pound ground beef (lean beef or ground turkey works well)
1 chopped onion (shallots can be used for milder sweetness)
2 cups shredded cabbage (can use coleslaw mix or kale)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (soy sauce can be used as an alternative)
to taste salt & pepper (adjust accordingly for your preference)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (can use olive oil)

How to Make Nebraska Runzas Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of water, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat until just warm. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Crack in 2 large eggs, then gradually add 1 to 1.5 cups of remaining flour while mixing until the dough no longer sticks to hands.
Step 5: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 6: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 7: While dough is rising, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 chopped onion, browning the meat until fully cooked.
Step 8: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 9: After rising, punch down the dough, divide into 8 pieces, and roll each into a 6-inch circle. Fill with 1/3 cup of cooled filling.
Step 10: Arrange on a greased baking sheet and let rise for 20 minutes.
Step 11: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 12: Brush tops with melted butter after baking for added flavor.

Nebraska Runzas: 8 Comforting Hand Pies You’ll Love - Nebraska Runzas - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Perfect Nebraska Runzas

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
Customize your filling with various vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor.
For a golden crust, brush the tops with butter before baking.
Experiment with different meats or even vegetarian options to suit your preferences.

Best Ways to Serve Nebraska Runzas

Enjoy your Nebraska Runzas with a side of warm soup or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Some people love to dip their Runzas in mustard or ketchup for an extra kick. Pairing them with a refreshing drink can also enhance the experience, making it an enjoyable meal for family and friends.

How to Store and Reheat Nebraska Runzas

To store your leftover Nebraska Runzas, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This makes for a quick meal prep option on busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nebraska Runzas

What’s the secret to perfect Nebraska Runzas?

The secret lies in the dough. Using fresh ingredients and allowing it to rise properly ensures a fluffy texture. For added flavor, don’t skimp on seasoning the filling, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients that suit your taste.

Can I make Nebraska Runzas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance. Simply store the filling in the fridge and let the dough rise overnight. When you’re ready to bake, assemble and follow the baking instructions as usual for a fresh, delicious meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Nebraska Runzas?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your dough rises in a warm place and is not overworked. Also, make sure the filling is cooled before adding it to the dough to prevent sogginess. Finally, don’t skip the brushing of butter on top for a beautiful golden crust.

Variations of Nebraska Runzas You Can Try

There are many creative adaptations of the traditional Nebraska-style Runzas. You can try adding cheese to the filling for a gooey texture, or even swap out the beef for chicken or a veggie mix for a lighter option. Don’t forget to explore unique spices to give your Runzas a personal twist!

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Roasted Carrot Soup. If you’re interested in learning about the benefits of onions, visit The Many Benefits of Onions.

Nebraska Runzas: 8 Comforting Hand Pies You’ll Love

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Nebraska Runzas are comforting hand pies filled with savory beef, cabbage, and onions, perfect for cozy nights.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 60 minutes
Cook Time: 85 minutes
Total Time: 145 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Omnivore

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with bread flour for chewier texture)
1 tablespoon sugar (can be reduced or substituted with honey)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast (ensure it’s fresh for best results)
1 teaspoon salt (essential for flavor)
1 cup milk (any milk works, including dairy-free alternatives)
1/4 cup water (use room temperature for best results)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (can be substituted with margarine)
2 large eggs (can substitute with flax egg for vegan option)
1 pound ground beef (lean beef or ground turkey works well)
1 chopped onion (shallots can be used for milder sweetness)
2 cups shredded cabbage (can use coleslaw mix or kale)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (soy sauce can be used as an alternative)
to taste salt & pepper (adjust accordingly for your preference)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (can use olive oil)

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend.
In a small saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of water, and 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat until just warm. Remove from heat.
Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Crack in 2 large eggs, then gradually add 1 to 1.5 cups of remaining flour while mixing until the dough no longer sticks to hands.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While dough is rising, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 chopped onion, browning the meat until fully cooked.
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
After rising, punch down the dough, divide into 8 pieces, and roll each into a 6-inch circle. Fill with 1/3 cup of cooled filling.
Arrange on a greased baking sheet and let rise for 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Brush tops with melted butter after baking for added flavor.