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Runza Sandwich Recipe

Runza Sandwich Recipe

The classic Nebraska Runza Sandwich Recipe brings together savory beef, sweet cabbage, and onions wrapped in golden homemade bread. This hearty, portable meal is cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly nutritious especially when made with the easy Runza Dough Recipe. Serve with Garlic Mashed Potatoes or a fresh Apple Chickpea Salad for a balanced, satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: fast food, sandwich
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour or substitute half with whole-wheat for fiber
  • 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk about 100°F
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tsp salt
  • For the Filling
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90% lean
  • 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional Add-ins (for variations)
  • 1 diced jalapeño (for a spicy kick | inspired by Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball)
  • ½ cup sautéed mushrooms and onions (for a Stroganoff-style Runza | see Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe)
  • ½ cup shredded chicken + broccoli (for a creamy twist | like Chicken Divan Recipe)

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For browning beef and sautéing vegetables
  • 1 Mixing bowl For preparing dough and filling
  • 1 Rolling pin To flatten the dough
  • 1 Baking sheet For baking the Runzas
  • 1 Parchment paper To prevent sticking
  • 1 Pastry brush For brushing butter or egg wash

Method
 

Prepare the Dough:
  1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
Cook the Filling:
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
  2. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned.
  3. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook for another 5–6 minutes until tender.
  4. Drain excess liquid and let the mixture cool slightly.
Assemble the Runzas:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a rectangle (about 6x8 inches).
  3. Spoon filling into the center, fold edges like an envelope, and seal tightly.
  4. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake the Runzas:
  1. Brush tops with melted butter or egg wash for a golden crust.
  2. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
  3. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve & Enjoy:
  1. Serve hot with a side of Matzo Ball Soup or Pureed Vegetable Soup
  2. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for future meals.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking.
  • To make it vegetarian, replace beef with sautéed lentils or mushrooms.
  • Add a spicy twist by mixing in diced jalapeños or chili flakes.
  • The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
  • Perfect for meal prep; reheats well in the oven or air fryer.
  • Try pairing it with a refreshing drink like our Lemon Balm Recipe for Weight Loss for a balanced finish.
Runza Sandwich Recipe
Runza Sandwich Recipe