Name: Nebraska Runzas: Comforting Hand Pies for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 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)

As I stood in my kitchen, the cozy aroma of baking bread wrapped around me like a warm hug, I knew it was time to make Nebraska Runzas. These delightful hand pies are a Midwestern classic, filled to the brim with savory beef, crisp cabbage, and tender onions, all snuggled inside a crust that’s golden and buttery. What’s best? They’re incredibly easy to whip up from scratch, making them an unbeatable option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Whether you prefer the traditional filling or decide to jazz things up with our Cheesy Runzas or Spicy Runzas variations, you’ll find that these tasty pockets are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Are you ready to embark on this delicious journey of homemade comfort food?

Why are Nebraska Runzas a must-try?

Comforting, Hearty Filling: Savory beef, tender cabbage, and sweet onion blend beautifully in each bite, delivering a taste that feels like a warm embrace.
Simple to Make: Effortless preparation means even novice cooks can create an impressive meal; just follow the detailed steps provided.
Versatile Options: Customize your runzas by trying variations like Cheesy or Spicy Runzas, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavor!
Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: Meal prep is a breeze with these hand pies—freeze unbaked and pop them in the oven for quick, delicious dinners!
Crowd-Pleasing Fun: Delightful for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, Nebraska Runzas will satisfy family and friends alike; consider pairing them with a fresh salad for extra flair!

Nebraska Runzas Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the dough; you can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
Sugar – Sweetens the dough slightly and helps with browning; can be reduced or substituted with honey.
Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the dough, creating a fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for the dough, so don’t omit this ingredient.
Milk – Adds richness and moisture to the dough; any milk works, including dairy-free alternatives.
Water – Hydrates the dough; use room temperature for best results.
Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and moisture; can be substituted with margarine or coconut oil for Dairy-Free versions.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and enrich the dough; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.

For the Filling

Ground Beef – The primary protein component; lean beef or ground turkey works well for a lighter option.
Onion – Adds flavor to the filling; shallots can be used for a milder sweetness.
Shredded Cabbage – Provides texture and flavor; you can use coleslaw mix or kale as alternatives.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami to the filling; soy sauce can be used as an alternative for similar flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Season the filling to your taste; adjust accordingly for your preference.
Vegetable Oil – Useful for browning the meat; olive oil can also be a good substitute.

Enjoy making these Nebraska Runzas, your comforting beef and cabbage hand pies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nebraska Runzas

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
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 the dry ingredients and ensure that the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This step lays the foundation for a fluffy dough, essential for your Nebraska Runzas.

Step 2: Warm the Liquids
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, reaching a temperature between 120°F and 130°F. Remove from heat as soon as small bubbles appear around the edge. This warm liquid will help activate the yeast, giving your Nebraska Runzas dough its airy texture.

Step 3: Combine and Beat
Pour the warm milk mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or a mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix until a smooth dough forms, about 2 to 3 minutes. The dough should start to pull away from the sides of the bowl, indicating it’s well combined and ready for the next step in preparing your runzas.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Flour
Crack in 2 large eggs, then gradually add an additional 1 to 1.5 cups of the remaining flour while mixing. Keep incorporating the flour until the dough no longer sticks to your hands. At this point, your Nebraska Runzas dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not overly wet, setting you up for a perfect texture once baked.

Step 5: Knead Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 6 to 8 minutes. Press, fold, and stretch the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial, as it develops the gluten structure, giving your runzas their delightful chewiness. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back after being pressed gently.

Step 6: Let Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rising process allows the yeast to work its magic, making your Nebraska Runzas light and fluffy when cooked.

Step 7: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 chopped onion, browning the meat until fully cooked. Then, stir in 2 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 8: Shape the Runzas
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then divide it into 8 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a 6-inch circle. Place about ⅓ cup of the cooled filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. This ensures no filling escapes during baking.

Step 9: Second Rise
Arrange the shaped Nebraska Runzas on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 20 minutes. During this time, the filling will meld with the dough, leading to a deliciously unified flavor when you’re ready to bake.

Step 10: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F while the runzas are rising. Once ready, bake the runzas for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown color. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking, as perfectly baked Nebraska Runzas should be tantalizingly golden and puffed.

Step 11: Finish
As soon as you pull the Nebraska Runzas from the oven, brush the tops with melted butter for added richness and a lovely sheen. This final touch enhances both flavor and appearance, making these hand pies irresistibly inviting for friends and family alike.

Tips for the Best Nebraska Runzas

Liquid Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to ensure the warm liquids are between 120°F and 130°F. Too hot can kill the yeast, resulting in dense runzas.
Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in the filling, avoid overstuffing your Nebraska Runzas. This can lead to bursting during baking. Stick to about ⅓ cup per pie.
Knead Well: Knead the dough for at least 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten structure necessary for a great texture.
Keep Rising: Allow the dough to rise in a draft-free area until it doubles in size. Patience is key for achieving that fluffy texture!
Brush with Butter: Don’t skip the brush of melted butter after baking. It adds extra flavor and makes the golden crust shine, tempting everyone at the table!

Make Ahead Options

These Nebraska Runzas are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and let it rise as directed, then refrigerate it in an airtight container; this keeps it fresh and prevents over-proofing. The filling can also be chilled after cooking to maintain its flavors. When you’re ready to serve, shape the runzas and let them rise for about 20 minutes before baking at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. You’ll have the same delicious, comforting hand pies with minimal fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Nebraska Runzas

Room Temperature: Keep fully baked Nebraska Runzas at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped in foil or parchment paper to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store baked runzas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked Nebraska Runzas individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Bake frozen runzas directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 25-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

What to Serve with Nebraska Runzas

The warmth of freshly baked Runzas invites hearty and refreshing accompaniments to complete your family meal.

Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes brings a light crunch that balances the savory hand pies beautifully.
Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy texture of coleslaw creates a delightful contrast; its tangy flavor complements the richness of the Runzas perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized add a sweet, smoky depth to your meal.
Garlic Bread Sticks: The buttery, garlicky flavor of breadsticks creates an irresistible pairing, perfect for soaking up any juice from your Runzas.
Homemade Gravy: A rich beef gravy served on the side can be a showstopper, perfect for those who enjoy extra flavor with each bite.
Sweet Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of corn provides a delightful side, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.

For drinks, consider pairing with a chilled lemonade or a crisp apple cider to balance out the hearty meal. Whether for a cozy night in or a casual gathering, these additions will make your Runza experience all the more unforgettable!

Nebraska Runzas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to step outside the box and add your own twists to these delicious runzas for a unique culinary adventure!

Cheesy Runzas: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack to the filling for an extra creamy bite.
For a gooey experience, melt the cheese into the warm mixture before sealing—pure comfort food!
Spicy Runzas: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to infuse some heat into the filling.
Turn up the spice level to make these hand pies the ultimate crowd-pleaser for heat lovers.
Meatless Option: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Both options provide a hearty texture while maintaining the classic flavors you love—perfect for a meat-free night!
Herb-Infused: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the filling for a fresh flavor boost.
This simple addition brightens every bite, making your runzas sing with rustic herb notes!
Sweet Twist: Incorporate a spoonful of sauerkraut for a tangy surprise that complements the savory filling.
It adds an unexpected zing, perfect for those who love a balance of flavors in their meals.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free dough.
This option allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the comforting goodness of Nebraska Runzas without compromise.
Breakfast Runzas: Fill with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a delightful breakfast variation.
These would be a hit at brunch gatherings, bringing a cozy, comforting start to the day!
Dipping Delight: Serve the runzas with a side of homemade ranch or spicy dipping sauce for a fun twist.
It complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing each mouthful with a zesty zing!

Dive into these variations and make these classic Nebraska Runzas your own! And if you’re looking for more ways to enhance your meals, consider making a fresh side salad to serve alongside, or browse ideas for dipping sauces that can elevate your experience even further. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Nebraska Runzas Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for Nebraska Runzas?
I recommend using green cabbage for a classic flavor and texture. However, you can also easily swap it for coleslaw mix or even kale for a change. Just ensure it’s finely shredded, as this helps it cook down nicely in the filling!

How should I store leftover Nebraska Runzas?
For best results, wrap your fully baked Nebraska Runzas in foil or parchment paper and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Nebraska Runzas?
Absolutely! To freeze them, I suggest wrapping individual, unbaked runzas in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 25-35 minutes—just add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to the yeast being old or the liquid being too hot or cold. Always double-check that your yeast is fresh and that the warm liquids are within the ideal range of 120°F to 130°F. If it doesn’t rise, you can try moving it to a warmer spot or adding a pinch of sugar to help activate the yeast.

Are Nebraska Runzas suitable for a vegan diet?
You can easily adapt Nebraska Runzas to be vegan-friendly! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for the filling, and use a flax egg in place of the traditional eggs for the dough. Additionally, use dairy-free milk and margarine or coconut oil to keep it completely plant-based.

How long can I keep my Nebraska Runzas in the freezer?
Nebraska Runzas can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re fully done.