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Nebraska Runzas: 8 Comforting Hand Pies You’ll Love

Nebraska Runzas

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

Ingredients

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  • 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)

Instructions

  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.
  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.
  3. Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  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.
  5. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  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.
  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.
  8. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
  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.
  10. Arrange on a greased baking sheet and let rise for 20 minutes.
  11. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
  12. Brush tops with melted butter after baking for added flavor.

Notes

    Nutrition