Hearty & Easy Runza Casserole: A Beloved Midwestern Comfort Food

Step into the heart of the Midwest with a truly comforting and incredibly simple dish: the Runza Casserole. This delightful casserole takes the iconic flavors of the traditional Runza sandwich – a savory blend of seasoned ground beef and tender cabbage – and transforms them into an effortless, hearty bake. Topped with a generous layer of shredded cheese and embraced by flaky crescent roll dough, this main course is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly filling and budget-friendly. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or simply when you crave a taste of genuine Midwestern hospitality in a convenient casserole form.

Understanding the Runza: A Nebraska Staple

If you’re not familiar with the culinary landscape of the Midwest, particularly around Nebraska, the name “Runza” might be entirely new to you. My friend Kim first introduced me to the classic Runza sandwich, a local delicacy that has captured the hearts of many. Essentially, it’s a type of loose meat sandwich made with ground beef, combined with sautéed cabbage and onions, all encased in a soft, homemade yeast bread pocket. While it might sound a little unconventional or even plain at first glance, the flavor profile is surprisingly rich and incredibly delicious. It’s truly a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

The Historical Roots: From Bierock to Runza

The unique combination of ingredients found in a Runza sandwich might indeed sound familiar, especially if you have an appreciation for German cuisine. That’s because these beloved sandwiches are the modern descendants of the German bierock, a savory pastry pocket traditionally filled with ground beef, shredded cabbage, and onions. In various regions, these flavorful pockets are also affectionately known as “kraut burgers.” The culinary journey from German immigrants settling in the Great Plains to the emergence of the Runza fast-food chain in Nebraska is a fascinating one, showcasing how traditional recipes evolve and become regional icons. The Runza casserole pays homage to this heritage, offering all the classic flavors in an even easier, family-style format.

Why This Runza Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite

Beyond its rich history and delicious taste, this Runza casserole offers numerous benefits that make it an instant hit for any home cook. Its straightforward preparation is a major plus, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. The combination of ground beef, tender cabbage, and creamy soup creates a deeply savory and hearty filling that truly “sticks to your ribs,” providing comforting sustenance. Layered between two golden-brown crescent roll crusts and melted cheese, it’s a textural delight that appeals to both kids and adults.

Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, utilizing common and affordable ingredients that you likely already have on hand or can easily find at any grocery store. It’s also remarkably versatile; you can easily adapt it with different types of meat, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your family’s preferences or what you have available. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Runza casserole offers a foolproof way to bring a taste of Midwestern comfort to your dinner table. It’s perfect for meal prepping, potlucks, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

Essential Ingredients for Your Runza Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards creating this delightful casserole. The beauty of the Runza casserole lies in its simplicity, utilizing readily available components to achieve a complex and satisfying flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few notes on why each ingredient is important:

• 2 (8-ounce each) cans crescent rolls (do not separate): These create the wonderfully flaky, buttery crust that defines the casserole. Using them unseparated forms a solid, easy-to-manage layer.
• 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef: The foundation of our hearty filling. Lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease, though any type will work if drained properly.
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage: A crucial ingredient, it provides a subtle sweetness and texture that pairs perfectly with the beef. Fresh green cabbage is best for optimal flavor and crispness before wilting.
• 1 package onion soup mix: This is a secret weapon for flavor, adding a depth of savory onion goodness and seasoning the meat without needing many individual spices.
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup: It binds the filling together, adding a creamy texture and umami richness that makes the casserole extra comforting.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar: The cheese provides a gooey, melted layer that complements the savory beef and cabbage. You can use either mozzarella for stretchiness or cheddar for a sharper flavor, or even a blend of both for the best of both worlds.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling to your preferred level of flavor.

Making Your Runza Casserole: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this Runza casserole is incredibly straightforward, involving just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll have a delicious, golden-brown casserole ready to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Hearty Filling

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon or a meat masher to break the beef into small, even pieces. Once the beef is fully browned, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy casserole. Next, add the four cups of chopped green cabbage to the skillet with the beef. Cook the cabbage for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and slightly wilted. This ensures the cabbage is tender when the casserole bakes. Finally, stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup and the package of onion soup mix. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the beef and cabbage are evenly coated with the creamy, savory sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble Your Layers

Now it’s time to build your casserole. Unroll one can of the crescent roll dough and, without separating the individual triangles, press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Make sure it covers the entire bottom surface, gently pressing up the sides a little if possible to create a slight edge. This will form the bottom crust of your casserole. Evenly spoon the entire beef and cabbage filling over the crescent roll dough. Spread it out with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese (either mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix) over the filling. Finally, unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and gently place it over the cheese layer, pressing it down lightly to cover the filling completely. This top layer will become beautifully golden and flaky.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven (350°F or 175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the crescent rolls on top turn a beautiful golden brown. The filling should be hot and bubbly, and the cheese melted and delicious. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions. The aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in!

Serving Suggestions for Your Runza Casserole

Once your Runza casserole is golden and bubbly, it’s ready to be served! This hearty dish is truly a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides for a complete and satisfying experience. For a truly authentic Midwestern “stick-to-your-ribs” meal, consider serving it alongside a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy french fries, or a side of golden onion rings. If you’re looking for a touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes, fried apples make an unexpectedly delicious accompaniment. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget some pickles or a dollop of mustard on the side for an extra kick! Whatever you choose, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips and Variations for Your Best Runza Casserole

While the classic Runza casserole recipe is perfect as is, there are many ways to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some tips and variations to help you make it your own:

• Protein Power: While ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different twist. Just ensure any alternative meat is fully cooked and drained before adding the cabbage and soups.
• Cabbage Choices: Green cabbage is standard, but you can experiment with other types. Napa cabbage or even a mix of green and red cabbage could add a different texture and color. For a stronger flavor, a touch of sauerkraut (drained well) can be mixed in with the filling, harkening back to its “kraut burger” origins.
• Flavor Boosters: For extra depth, sauté a minced clove or two of garlic with the ground beef. A pinch of caraway seeds can also enhance the “bierock” flavor profile. A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the beef mixture adds a lovely umami note.
• Cheese, Please!: Don’t limit yourself to mozzarella or cheddar. A sharp provolone, Swiss, or even a Monterey Jack blend can add exciting new dimensions to the casserole.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the filling can give it a welcome kick.
• Healthier Options: To lighten the dish, use extra-lean ground beef or ground turkey, low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also increase the amount of cabbage or add other finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• Make Ahead & Storage: This casserole is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the baking step) and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze, bake the casserole as directed, then let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the crust is crisp again (about 30-40 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions About Runza Casserole

Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying your Runza Casserole:

• What is the difference between a Runza and a Bierock? While very similar, the traditional Runza sandwich (from the Runza Restaurants chain) typically uses a specific sweet dough, and the filling usually includes finely ground beef, cabbage, and onions. Bierocks are a broader category of German-Russian meat-filled pastries, which can have variations in dough and filling. This casserole is inspired by both, simplifying the preparation.
• Can I use fresh dough instead of crescent rolls? Yes, you can! If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own bread dough or use a store-bought pizza dough or even puff pastry. Just ensure it’s rolled thin enough to cook through and creates a good crust. Crescent rolls are chosen for their ease and consistent flakiness.
• Is it okay to use pre-shredded cabbage? Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to measure out roughly 4 cups after chopping it into smaller, manageable pieces if needed.
• How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery? Draining the fat from the ground beef thoroughly is key. Also, ensure the cabbage is cooked long enough to wilt slightly and release some of its moisture before mixing in the soups. The cream of mushroom soup helps bind the filling, but excess water from beef or undercooked cabbage can make the casserole soupy.
• Can I add other vegetables to the filling? Yes, you can! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a small amount of mushrooms can be sautéed with the beef and cabbage to add more flavor and nutrients. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the filling.

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Runza Casserole

Runza casserole has a hearty and flavorful filling of ground beef and cabbage topped with shredded cheese and sandwiched between layers of crescent rolls.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Servings:

6 -8

Author:
Amy D

Ingredients

• 2 8-ounce tubes refrigerated crescent rolls, (do not separate)
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 1 package onion soup mix
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar*
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet on medium high heat, using a utensil to break the ground beef into small pieces. Drain any excess grease. Once the beef is browned, add the cabbage and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cabbage has slightly wilted. Stir the cream of mushroom soup and onion soup mix into the beef and cabbage mixture.
3. Unroll one can of the refrigerated crescent rolls, do not separate them, and place in the bottom of the baking pan. Layer the beef and cabbage over the crescent rolls in the prepared baking dish.
4. Place an even layer of cheese over the beef and cabbage. Top the casserole with the remaining can of crescent rolls.
5. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until the crescent rolls are golden brown on top.

Notes

Notes: You can use either shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, but I often use a mixture of both cheeses.

Recommended Products

Sauté Pan with Lid, 5QT

Farberware Professional Meat/Potato Masher

9X13 Casserole Pan

Did You Make this Recipe?Please leave a review or a photo! I’d love to hear your feedback!

In conclusion, this Easy Runza Casserole offers a fantastic way to enjoy a true Midwestern classic with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It combines the savory goodness of ground beef and cabbage with the convenience of crescent rolls and a cheesy topping, creating a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re new to the world of Runzas or a long-time fan, this casserole is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without the fuss. Enjoy!