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)
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.